Why did you want to become a director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world?

For the past four years, I have had the immense privilege of serving Penn State THON in several capacities; as a Committee Member, Organization Member, Captain, and Director. In each of these roles, I have learned invaluable lessons as a leader, follower, friend, and person. Since becoming a THON Volunteer, I’ve also had the privilege of meeting Four Diamonds families and learning more about each of their unique stories. Through learning from them, I feel lucky to be able to put a face to the impact that THON and Four Diamonds have year-round. From watching CJ Ford ring the bell on Zoom when he finished treatment, to playing a scavenger hunt with the Bonn Family at Harvest Day, to watching Aubrey Evans participate in the Kids Fashion Show from across the country, these moments showed me the importance of continuing to provide happy memories for children and teens impacted by childhood cancer. Being able to serve as the Executive Director for THON 2023 allows me to continue to develop opportunities for volunteers and THON supporters to see the impact of our work through these special moments, while also fundraising so that one day no child must fight this horrible disease.

What are your main responsibilities as a Director for THON 2023?

First and foremost, my responsibility is to uplift and support the Executive Committee throughout the year as they develop and execute each of their committee's initiatives, events, and resources. I'm responsible for ensuring that each of these initiatives is aligned with the long-term growth of THON's mission while working with our sole beneficiary Four Diamonds, and partner Penn State Health Children's Hospital. As the primary liaison to Four Diamonds, I work closely with their team and can serve as the spokesperson for THON on the Four Diamonds Advisory Board. I also act as the primary liaison to a few of THON's essential stakeholder groups: Penn State Administration, Student Affairs, University Development, and some of our corporate and individual donors

What is your favorite THON memory?

My favorite THON memory was during my first shift as a Rules & Regulations Committee Member for THON 2019. I was fortunate to be stationed right at the entrance of the Bryce Jordan Center, the door that dancers entered to take their first steps onto the floor for THON Weekend 2019. Being able to watch each of them see the floor for the first time, where they would be spending the next 46 hours, was such a privilege. Not only did I watch hundreds of beaming smiles coming from the dancers, but I saw the genuine enthusiasm and passion of other Committee Members, Captains, Directors, Student Organization members, and Four Diamonds families as we lined the dancers' tunnel. In that moment, I realized how special THON is for every person who touches this organization; from general spectators to organization members, to committee members, and most importantly for children and families impacted by childhood cancer.

As a director, what are you most looking forward to for THON 2023?

I am very excited to continue to invest in the future of this organization by promoting a culture of adaptability, innovation, inclusivity, and above all a deep passion for bettering the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer. I hope that by the end of this year, the Executive Committee can confidently say that we have left THON in a better place than when we started this journey in April.

Favorite Quote?

"To laugh often and much: To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you lived. This is to have succeeded." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Are you involved in other organizations that benefit THON?

PGN Professional Development Organization

What are you involved in outside of THON?

In my time at Penn State, I've been able to join a business fraternity, teach fitness classes at on-campus gyms, and participate in undergraduate research through the College of Health and Human Development.

What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?

I plan to work in management or healthcare consulting in Philadelphia after graduation!

If you were an animal, what would you be and why?

I've always loved dolphins since I was young, so I'm going to go with that! I'd love to be able to live in the ocean, and I like how dolphins always stay close to their families.

Is a hotdog a sandwich?

Unfortunately, I have no compelling argument or opinion for this in either direction. This is such a boring answer - so sorry!