Vraj Patel

Media Management Director

Vraj Patel

• Year: Senior
• Hometown: Downingtown, PA
• Major: Computer Science
• Minor: Economics
• Previous THON™ Involvement:

  THON 2024 PR Graphic Design Captain, THON 2025 Show and Media Entrance Captain

• Why did you want to become a director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world?  I wanted to be a Director for THON 2026 because being a PR Captain for the past two years has shown me the incredible beauty and reach of this organization. I’ve seen firsthand how we’re able to uplift and inspire others to join us in the fight. I want to continue making an impact in a greater way, continuing to share the magic of this organization to even more audiences. Serving as a director on the Executive Committee allows me to continue fighting for a future filled with hope that one day we will dance in celebration of a cure.
• What are your main responsibilities as a Director for THON™ 2026?  As the PR Media Management Director, I am responsible for promoting THON’s mission by expanding our national reach while ensuring our current donors, supporters, and volunteers remain informed and engaged through strategic media and written communication. Whether it’s working with external stakeholders, influencers, or national media outlets, I focus on building strong relationships with media partners to share the impactful stories of our organization while maintaining THON’s brand integrity and image.
• What is your favorite THON memory?  This past THON Weekend, I helped coordinate an interaction through my role as a MR Captain with one of my co-captains between one of my organization’s THON families and a social media creator the child deeply admired. The moment she saw her, she immediately burst into tears and ran to hug her, completely overwhelmed with emotion. Watching that moment unfold was incredibly moving and truly captured the magic of this organization. It was a moment filled with so much joy and emotion that it brought tears to nearly everyone around us, and it’s something I will never forget.
• What is your favorite quote?  “In the joy of others lies our own” – PSM

• What are you involved in outside of being a THON™ Director?  Delta Sigma Pi (DSP), Presidential Leadership Academy (PLA)

• What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?  After graduation, I hope to work in the intersection of technology and business through a data science, software engineering, or product management role. I am passionate about helping businesses and organizations grow through technology and innovation, and am especially excited about applying machine learning and data-driven algorithms to drive product innovation and explore new horizons.