OPPerations Director
Ava Wolf
- Year: Senior
- Hometown: Ephrata, PA
- Major: Health Policy and Administration
- Minor: Labor and Human Resources
- Previous THON™ Involvement:
-Freshman Year: Ohana Organization Member
-Sophomore Year: THON OPPerations Lieutenant (Second-in-Command)
-Junior Year: THON OPPerations Set Up/Tear Down Captain
-Senior Year: THON OPPerations Director
- Why did you want to become a director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world? I wanted to serve as a Director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world to fully dedicate myself to giving back to the organization, the people, and the cause that has brought me the most overwhelming joy I’ve ever known. THON™ has a unique, inspiring, life-changing, and profoundly beautiful impact on every life it touches. Serving as a Director is an incredible privilege that allows me to help spread this impact to as many people as possible. In doing so, I can contribute to building a stronger, more united community that can come together to create a lasting, transformative difference for the children and families we fight for.
- What are your main responsibilities as a Director for THON™ 2026? As the OPPerations Director, I am responsible for providing and maintaining safe, clean, and healthy environments for our families, volunteers, donors, alumni, and more at all THON™ events throughout the year. I oversee key operations such as the setup and teardown processes for pre-THON™ events and THON™ Weekend, event maintenance and logistics, supply transportation, the implementation and advancement of the organization’s sustainability initiatives, effective waste management practices, and serve as the primary liaison between THON™ and the Bryce Jordan Center. Working alongside my 22 captains, OPPerations is known for its behind-the-scenes work—taking essential measures to ensure our children, families, and all others can safely experience and enjoy the magic of THON™!
- What is your favorite THON memory? It’s incredibly challenging to choose just one favorite memory, but a few that come to mind include: my last working shift of THON Weekend 2025 with my committee members, having the opportunity to interview with my local news station and spreading the joy of THON to my home community, Final Four at both THON Weekend 2024 and 2025, and lastly, getting to take-in the magic that filled the BJC after set up for THON Weekend 2025 with my co-captain.
- What is your favorite quote? “Be a lover. Give love. Choose love. Love everyone, always.” – Harry Styles
- What are you involved in outside of being a THON™ Director? Outside of THON™, on campus, I am involved in HPA Club and ACHCA Club. Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time outside, working out, running, spending time with family and friends, and attending athletic games!
- What are your plans after graduation from Penn State? After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in hospital administration and healthcare system services to continue positively impacting those in-need within our communities!
