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

I wanted to become a director to amplify the inspiring stories of our Four Diamonds families and community members, to lead and learn from my fellow student volunteers that I have the pleasure of working alongside, and to contribute to innovative projects and processes that will propel our organization forward. There isn't one distinct experience or role that has solidified my passion and love for this organization, but countless moments that have made me feel so blessed to be part of such an indescribable community. I wanted to invest as much time and energy as possible into further projecting the voice of our organization by sharing stories of the incredible community members that make it up. I wanted to play a part in creating incredible relationships with as many volunteers as possible, and to use my time and effort to create a positive experience for them within the THON Community. Lastly, I wanted to contribute to various projects, campaigns, and initiatives that will take our organization to new heights where we can better serve our families in pursuit of a cure. I have been engulfed in this organization and its love since stepping foot on campus during my 1st year as a student, and I wanted to be able to leave a lasting impact that sets our organization and its community members up for success now and in the years to come.

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

As a member of the Executive Committee, I have the opportunity to work alongside my 16 fellow directors to make impactful changes and execute initiatives that will benefit our organization and its 16,500 student volunteers as an entirety. Specifically, as Public Relations Director, I have the incredible opportunity to work with 28 captains and over 80 committee members to spread awareness of childhood cancer and the support THON and Four Diamonds provide to children and families impacted by the disease. Public Relations works on a local, state, and national level to share our family, volunteer, and community members' stories. We also run all of THON’s social media platforms, create our own digital, written, and visual content, executive a variety of campaigns to enhance our organization's efforts, and maintain THON’s overall brand across the entirety of the organization.

What is your favorite THON memory?

Although it is difficult to choose just one memory, my favorite would be right prior to Total Reveal during THON 2022. As the hustle and bustle of executing our roles for the weekend came to a close, I was able to stand arm in arm with my co-captains in a packed Bryce Jordan Center, sharing such a special moment that culminated all of our efforts throughout the year. Even more importantly, I realized how special it is to play even a small role in bettering the lives of our families, and working towards the day where childhood cancer will no longer exist. There are countless moments that make we feel honored to be part of such a special community, and even thinking about that exact moment gives me chills. Any moment spent with the THON Community is a moment spent right.

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

I am so excited to reflect on how far we have come as an organization during our 50 years of existence and looking forward to the next 50 years and beyond to identify where we can grow and expand our mission as a community. Sky is the limit with this community, and I am excited to work alongside of the Public Relations Committee to capture the magic of our organization in new ways, and spread our mission across the country and around the globe to reach new audiences and engage new individuals in our fight - For the Kids®!

Favorite Quote?

"Doing what you love is amazing, but doing what you love, with the people you love, is priceless" -Unknown

Are you involved in other organizations that benefit THON?

I have been involved in Lion Ambassadors, which is paired with two incredible THON families that I am hoping to develop a closer relationship with this year.

What are you involved in outside of THON?

Lion Ambassadors, Learning Assistant for the Biology Department, Undergraduate Research with the Eberly College of Science

What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?

I am hoping to attend Physician's Assistant or Medical School after the completion of my undergraduate education.

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

I think I would be a dog. My friends have told me I am very loyal and loving, and I always have ample amounts of energy and excitement toward my loved ones and toward activities.

Is a hotdog a sandwich? Explain your reasoning.

Yes, I believe it is a sandwich. I do feel that it is a special class of sandwiches, but it does fall in the sandwich category.