Written By: Sarah Strent and Bayla Plower

1. What committee are you a Captain for?  

I am a Crowd Entertainment (Digital Engagement) Captain for the Entertainment Committee!

2. Can you please give a brief description of what the Entertainment Committee entails? 

As the Entertainment Committee, we are responsible for providing the highest quality of event production by contacting performers from all around the country and creating innovative initiatives to keep the crowd engaged at all pre-THON™ events and THON Weekend! Our committee consists of 25 captains and over 50 committee members and we work as one team to create a fun, exciting, and family-friendly environment at all THON-related events. Throughout the year, Entertainment plans some of the biggest events during THON Weekend like Pep Rally, Kid Fashion Show, and Kid Talent Show! I love being a part of the Entertainment Committee because we have the opportunity to work behind-the-scenes at all THON events to help Four Diamonds families, supporters, donors, and alumni create memories that will last a lifetime.  

3. What inspired you to get involved in THON? 

Coming into my first year of college, I knew that I wanted to dedicate myself to an organization that seeks to give back to the surrounding Penn State community and beyond. THON was the perfect fit for me and I joined as a Committee Member on the Entertainment Committee for THON 2021. Ever since then, it has been a decision I have never regretted once and I have met some of the most inspiring individuals along the way. I have been so inspired by the stories of our Four Diamonds families and hearing what they have to say about their journey motivates me to give back to this organization in any way possible.  

4. What was your favorite part of THON last year? 

Although I have created so many memories through THON last year, one that sticks out to me would be the total reveal of THON 2022. Standing with my fellow captains on the floor of the BJC and waiting in anticipation of the total reveal was an experience that was indescribable. Seeing the total being raised on stage reminded me of what the THON community is capable of and how we strive to support those at the forefront of our mission. All of our efforts throughout the year culminated in that moment and it will be something I’ll never forget.  

5. What are you most looking forward to in this upcoming THON? 

As one of the Crowd Entertainment (Digital Engagement) Captains for THON this year, I am looking forward to developing creative and innovative ways to engage those tuning into the livestream during all pre-THON events and THON Weekend. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen the capability of creating connections through a virtual platform and I hope to take this to the next level for THON 2023!