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

The impact that this organization has on children, families, the Penn State community, and my own life have been the driving force behind continuing my involvement in THON. Throughout my time on the Hospitality committee, I have been able to see just how impactful my own hard work can be on Four Diamonds families, let alone the hard work of thousands of student volunteers coming together in support our mission. Throughout my involvement in various aspects of THON through organizations and committees, I gained so many connections with other passionate and dedicated volunteers, which has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. To make the greatest possible impact on children and families impacted by childhood cancer as a director this year is truly an honor, and I cannot wait to support Hospitality and the entire THON Community as we Fuel The Fight this year!

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

The Hospitality Committee is responsible for acquiring all of the food and beverage donations that feed our thousands of families, dancers, and volunteers at all pre-THON and THON events. As the Hospitality Director, I help to coordinate the relationships with many of these donors along with leading my amazing committee of 20 captains and 200+ committee members. This year, I plan to be a strong advocate for increased education for Hospitality surrounding food safety, food intolerances and allergies, and all special dietary needs so that we can be as inclusive and safe as possible at our events.

What is your favorite THON™ memory?

My favorite THON memory was getting to see my sorority's THON child this year at THON Weekend. After a recent scare and hospital stay, I was just ecstatic to hear that she would be able to make it to the event. After a long year of hard work, getting to meet up with her at THON Weekend and catch up about life with her and her Mom was one of the most full-circle and rewarding moments within my THON journey. She is someone who is so special to me, and I am so grateful to be able to support her family and so many others like her through this incredible philanthropy.

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

I am so excited to see everything come together at THON Weekend! There was a moment this year where I was able to take a moment to myself within the last few hours of THON which I spent looking around at all of the people in the arena. This year, I am sure that moment will only be even more rewarding as I wrap up my THON journey and finish out my senior year. I can't wait to spend this year's THON with my incredible committee of directors and my amazing Hospitality Captains and Committee Members.

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

Don't sweat the small stuff, what is meant to be will be.

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

I am an active member of Delta Gamma and Whiplash Dance Team. In my sorority, I am currently serving as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Chair for our chapter and a Hope Serving Ambassador for our executive offices. I am also a general body member of Camp Kesem Central PA, along with being a former Greeks CARE facilitator.

What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?

I am hoping to attend law school or a master's program!

Who is your role model? Why?

My role models are my parents. They are fierce advocates for others, unwaveringly supportive, and unconditionally loving to all that they come into contact with. Their presence is one that lights up any room they walk into, and everyone that they know speaks so highly of their character and empathetic nature. My parents are my biggest inspiration, my best friends, and people who will forever be proud of all that I am. I love them so much!

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

Hannah Montana! She lives a double life with grace, and I have always been the type of person doing a million different activities and juggling a ton of different commitments. But, at the end of the day, she has her best friends and her family so all of that definitely resonates with me!

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

A dance class! It is one of the most fun workouts, a huge confidence builder, and even more fun with friends!