Family Relations
Zack Newman
he/him

Family Relations Director

4th Year Student
Hometown: Lawrenceville, NJ
Major: Supply Chain

Previous THON™ Involvement

THON 2021: Dancer Relations Committee Member
THON 2022: Dancer Relations Committee Member
THON 2023: Family Relations Captain (Athletics/SE Liaison)

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

I was so fortunate to be involved with our THON Families since the beginning of my time at Penn State as a FR Chair for AKPsi. Being able to interact with our families and make a relationship with them was what ignited my passion for THON. I knew I wanted to be able to make more relationships with our families while also allowing other volunteers to have that same experience! I wanted to be able to connect as many people as possible so that everyone can see the magic of THON and that it can grow and grow. I wanted to be able to be a part of that process and offer our THON Families as much love and support as possible.

What are your main responsibilities as a Director for THON™ 2024?

My main responsibilities as a Director for THON™ 2024 are to help with planning for events that involve our families, facilitate interactions, and ensure that all families feel welcomed and supported. I work alongside the 25 Family Relations Captains throughout the year to achieve those responsibilities I mentioned. Each of the captains plays a crucial role to the success of Family Relations so one of my main responsibilities is supporting them in any way I can!

What is your favorite THON™ memory?

My favorite THON memory was during Pep Rally last year! I was able to be a part of pairing the kids with the sports teams that led out the teams. It was so fun to see how happy everyone was to be interacting with one another! I love seeing how much the Penn State Community embraces our THON Families and all that they do for them.

As a director, what are you most looking forward to for THON™ 2024?

This year I am really looking forward to being able to bring more events to Hershey! As restrictions are lifting and there can be more interaction, I am just excited to see all that we can do! Along with that I am looking forward to bringing some great events to our families and connecting them with the Penn State Community!

If you could give your high school self one piece of advice, what would it be

Don't be afraid to take risks and do something a different way.

What are you involved in outside of being a THON™ Director?

Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity

What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?

I would like to work for a company that allows me to use my degree as well as something that has a lot of interaction with people!

Who is your role model? Why?

My role model is my Dad. He always put others before himself, had a great attitude no matter what the circumstance was, and tried his hardest at everything he set his mind to.

What Disney character do you identify with the most? Why?

I identify most with Max Goof from the "A Goofy Movie" series.

What is one thing you think everyone should try at least once?

I think everyone should try baking. I am not very good but feel really accomplished when it works out for me.