Kaitlyn Wolfe

Public Relations Director

Kaitlyn Wolfe

• Year: 4th year
• Hometown: Cranberry Twp., PA
• Major: Advertising/Public Relations with a concentration in Advertising
• Minor: English, Digital Media Trends and Analytics Certificate: Fundraising and Advancement
• Why did you want to be a Director?: I wanted to be a Director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world because ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. In elementary school, I held bake sales and sold bracelets in the lobby before class to raise money for the fight against cancer. My friends stood beside me, my family stayed up late on school nights to make bracelets, my mother taught me how to bake, and my fellow classmates, neighbors, and peers donated money to support the cause. Growing up in a community that supported each other in times of darkness, I knew that’s where my heart and passion lied. I saw the best in humanity and wanted to foster that type of hope and compassion in everything that I do. I came to Penn State and had my full circle moment. Working alongside a new community of supportive, passionate, dedicated, and empathetic volunteers who are equally as committed to finding a cure. I love this community and want to dedicate my time at Penn State to being a part of the most beautiful display of humanity I have ever seen.
• What responsibilities do you have as the [position] Director for THON 2025?: As the Public Relations Director for THON 2025, my responsibilities include overseeing 28 Public Relations Captains in all graphic design, social media, publication management, video production, photography, brand development, and media relations efforts. The Public Relations committee is home to four CM committees including photography (1), production (1), and media development (2) oversaw by eight of the Public Relations Captains. As a member of the Executive Committee, I work collaboratively with the other 16 members of the EC to promote campaigns, initiatives, and pre-THON Weekend events leading up to THON Weekend. Outside of my tangible responsibilities as the Public Relations Director, I have a responsibility to all of our volunteers to create a space within the THON community to be creative, innovative, and passionate in serving our mission. I want to become a resource in our yearlong efforts in the fight against childhood cancer and foster a community of love, teamwork, and appreciation.
• What is your favorite THON memory?: My favorite THON memory occurred during THON Weekend 2024 as a Public Relations Captain. I stood arm in arm with my cocaptains alongside the stage during total reveal. We watched the Executive Committee slowly unveil the numbers representative of our yearlong efforts. Confetti and tears filled my vision as I embraced my best friends and celebrated raising $16.9 million dollars in the fight against childhood cancer. Long Live by Taylor Swift played in the background and as cliche as it sounds, it felt like I was experiencing the happy ending every movie deserves.
• Favorite Quote: “Be the change you wish the see in the world.” Mahatma Gandhi
• What are you involved in outside of THON?: Outside of THON, I am involved in Penn State’s National Student Advertising Competition team through the American Advertising Federation. This past year, I served as the Experiential and Partnerships Director and a presenter of our 20-minute pitch to the national client, Tide. I am employed through Penn State Campus Recreation and work as a Building Supervisor at the White Building, Hepper Fitness Facility, and the West Turf Fields. I am also a member of the Penn State Advertising/Public Relations club.
• What are your plans for after you graduate from Penn State?: After I graduate from Penn State, my plan is to make a difference. In wherever I go, or whatever I do, I want to make an impact on the lives of others. Whether that be working for a non-profit organization such as Four Diamonds or the American Cancer Society, or working for an advertising agency like the Ad Council whose mission is to open hearts and inspire action through philanthropic work, I want to utilize my education and skillset to do what I love and love what I do!