Connor Grauel

Merchandise Director

Connor Grauel

• Year: Senior
• Hometown: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
• Major: Finance and Accounting
• Minor: Information Systems Management

• Previous THON™ Involvement:
  

  THON 2024: Merchandise Committee Member

  THON 2025: Merchandise Customer Relations Captain

  THON 2026: Merchandise Data Analytics & Forecasting Captain

• Why did you want to become a director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world? My first experience with cancer was in 7th grade, when I learned my friend’s brother survived brain cancer. I saw how that battle affected a child, a family, and a movement. Now at Penn State, I have become obsessed with THON™’s mission and impact on Four Diamonds. The emotional buildup to THON Weekend over the span of a year has connected me with a mission that has impacted me emotionally, mentally, and professionally. I THON to maximize my impact on defeating childhood cancer and spreading hope and love, giving back to an organization that has impacted me beyond words can describe.

• What are your main responsibilities as a Director for THON™ 2027? As the Merchandise Director, I am responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the THON Store, creating brand awareness, maintaining vendor relationships, and upholding the name of THON through the protection of our trademarks and licensing requirements. While leading a dedicated team of over 20 Captains and 50 Committee Members, I facilitate strategic conversations focused on the Merchandise Committee’s growth, exploring new ways to expand our reach and maximize profitability in support of THON’s mission.

• What is your favorite THON memory? During THON 2025, I had the opportunity to be on the floor before Final Four. I remember looking around the Bryce Jordan Center at the thousands of diverse students, perspectives, and backgrounds, all coming together for one cause. The feeling was indescribable. 

• What is your favorite quote? “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

• What are you involved in outside of being a THON™ Director? Leveraged Lion Capital: Nation’s first student-run debt portfolio, Sapphire Leadership Academic Program: Represents top 5% of Smeal College of Business and Letters to Beverly: Pen-pal program with local nursing homes.
  

• What are your plans after graduation from Penn State? I will be working in Private Credit in Philadelphia.