THON™ 5K: The Captains Behind the Event

By: Norah Cogley, Michelle Diamond, Eliana Eger, and Sydney Stasio

The annual THON™ 5K, the largest pre-THON event, took place on Oct. 25 at the Bryce Jordan Center, kicking off the Dream Forward Campaign, in which the THON community aims to raise $1,500,000 in just 17 days. 

As facilitators of the 5K, Olivia Massari and the other 5K Development Captains were in charge of the “behind the scenes” aspects of the day, collaborating with other committees including Entertainment, Family Relations and Supply Logistics to ensure the event went smoothly. 

“[It’s] just such a great day with so many fun activities,” Olivia said.  

Part of Olivia’s job was to plan events and the happenings on stage, including games, singing, a family speaker, a pep rally and performances from two bands. Food trucks were also on site, and several organizations hosted alternative fundraisers throughout the day. 

Olivia said she was looking forward to the Kids’ Race.  

“This year is really fun because we got to visit the Hershey Hospital, and we decorated a finish line for the Kids’ Race so they’re going to run through that, and it’s just super exciting,” Olivia said.  

Olivia highlighted the sense of community the 5K creates. 

“It’s just such an amazing way for the entire community to come together for THON’s mission, whether you’re a student, a volunteer, alumni or a family,” Olivia said. “Everyone comes together and walks for a cure.” 

With the 5K officially marking the beginning of the Dream Forward Campaign, Olivia and the other 5K Development Captains helped bring the Penn State community together in preparation for THON weekend. This event helped curate excitement and build anticipation for THON.