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

I wanted to serve as a director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world because I truly believe that THON changes lives. There isn’t one critical moment that drove my decision, but rather my passion stems from a collection of moments that have shaped the way I view the power of philanthropy. Through my interactions with our Four Diamonds families, I have seen the direct impact of how THON provides life-changing emotional and financial support for families going through the most difficult time of their lives. I knew that the opportunity to serve as the Public Relations Director would allow me to play a direct role in shaping global awareness of childhood cancer research. As a volunteer, I am forever changed by the community fostered through this organization. Through my years of volunteering with THON, I have met the most amazing people who have undoubtably changed my perspective on what it means to be a Penn Stater. THON has been one of the most beautiful and moving parts of my Penn State experience and I could not be more excited for the strength, love, and hope that THON 2024 will see this year.

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

This year, I hope to serve as a resource for collaboration, advocacy, and friendship within both facets of the Executive Committee, and as the Public Relations Director. As a member of the Executive Committee, I am united in the shared goal of elevating THON’s volunteer experience so that all Penn Staters can find belonging within our organization. By learning from the diverse perspectives of my 16 co-Directors, 16,500 student volunteers, and the greater THON Community, I am grateful and humbled to have the opportunity to drive lasting change within our organization. In my role as Public Relations Director, I aim to foster a creative vision amongst PR’s 26 captains and over 80 committee members. It is my hope that Public Relations provides the opportunity for all to feel connected to Four Diamonds Families, volunteers, and our mission of conquering childhood cancer. The Public Relations committee seeks to magnify the stories of families, volunteers, and THON Community member’s stories on a local, state, and national level. THON Public Relations manages THON’s social media platforms, creates written, visual, and digital content, produces works of film, executes a variety of organization-wide campaigns, and upholds THONs cohesive brand all while spreading our mission.

What is your favorite THON memory?

For the last two THON Men’s Hockey games, I had the opportunity to participate in the Teddy Bear Toss alongside Four Diamonds Families. Seeing crowds of hockey fans pour into the arena with arms full of teddy bears to be donated to the Penn State Health Children’s Hospital was such a moving moment. On the ice, I had a blast gathering up huge teddy bears with Four Diamonds Families, THON Volunteers, and the Nittany Lion!

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

THON 2024 holds so much promise, but I am most looking forward to entering the BJC for the first time with the Executive Committee in the early morning of February 16. THON is truly a year-round effort, and I cannot wait to celebrate these collective efforts come to life! Seeing this anticipated weekend come together is truly a magical experience, and I cannot wait to see our community unite, For the Kids® !

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

If it doesn't matter in five years, don't worry about it for more than five minutes.

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

I belong to Penn State Harmony, a musical theatre organization that enriches the lives of adults with neurodiversity and physical disabilities in the State College community. In the weeks leading up to the semester-end performance in Schwab Auditorium, members of Harmony sing and dance to musical theatre songs, rehearse lines, and build friendships. I also work as a Public Speaking Mentor at Penn State Learning and tutor across the Communications Arts and Sciences curriculum. Additionally, I am a Presidential Scholar within the Presidential Leadership Academy, and am a part of the Schreyer Honors College.

What are your plans after graduation from Penn State?

After graduation, I will be working at Vanguard in Malvern, P.A. as a part of the Emerging Leadership Development Program.

Who is your role model? Why

I am a proud daughter of my parents, Scott and Amy, who serve as my role models. My entire family have always been my biggest cheerleaders (shoutout to my Poppop!)

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

I love to sing, so I would be devastated if I wasn’t able to use my voice like Ariel!

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

I believe that everyone should (safely) solo-travel once in their life. Last May, I traveled alone to Hawaii prior to meeting members of the PLA on a trip, and found a lot of peace in acting on my own bucket-list items, trying new foods, and spending time exploring Honolulu!