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

Having the opportunity to personally get to know many of our THON Families has been such an amazing experience and getting to see how impacted they have been by THON has inspired my involvement. I wanted to get involved as a director to get to facilitate relationships between our families and volunteers; both to ensure our families have the best possible experiences within THON, but also so our volunteers can be in touch with our mission and individuals their efforts directly benefit. I am especially passionate about recognizing that each family's THON experience is different, and I wanted to be involved in ensuring that the work that we do recognizes these differences and supports each of our families uniquely and intentionally. THON is a bit of light in a very difficult time for many of our families, and I wanted to do what I could to ensure they feel loved and supported through and beyond their cancer journey.

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

Having the opportunity to personally get to know many of our THON Families has been such an amazing experience and getting to see how impacted they have been by THON has inspired my involvement. I wanted to get involved as a director to get to facilitate relationships between our families and volunteers; both to ensure our families have the best possible experiences within THON, but also so our volunteers can be in touch with our mission and individuals their efforts directly benefit. I am especially passionate about recognizing that each family's THON experience is different, and I wanted to be involved in ensuring that the work that we do recognizes these differences and supports each of our families uniquely and intentionally. THON is a bit of light in a very difficult time for many of our families, and I wanted to do what I could to ensure they feel loved and supported through and beyond their cancer journey.

What is your favorite THON memory?

During THON Weekend 2021 I had the honor of going into the BJC to do my event, Kids' Mail Call, from the stage. During the event one of our families, the Julia O'Toole family, was touring the BJC using a telepresence robot. She drove the robot right next to the stage, and during the performances we had a dance party. She drove the robot in circles as we danced and sang. In that moment I think I fully came to understand that THON isn't a place, it is a feeling and an incredible community.

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

This year I am really looking forward to taking what we have learned about virtual engagement the past two years and intentionally incorporating it into our events. I am so glad we have learned about how to create engaging opportunities online for our families that may not be able to join us in-person and I cannot wait to work with my captains to make these opportunities come to life!

Favorite Quote?

"Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength." - Nick Peterson 6/21/91-12/8/09
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Are you involved in other organizations that benefit THON?

Schreyer Student Council Benefitting THON

What are you involved in outside of THON?

I am a counselor with Camp Kesem, an organization that supports children impacted by a parent's cancer. I also participate in undergraduate research in the department of Architectural Engineering regarding construction robotics.

What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?

I hope to work in the technology industry consulting on accessibility within applications and other technology solutions.

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

Jellyfish. I don't think it's that accurate but they are my favorite animal and they just vibe all the time.

Is a hotdog a sandwich?

No. If you take it out of the bun it's still a hot dog.