Melanie Layish

Digital Content Director

Melanie Layish

• Year: Senior
• Hometown: Binghamton, New York
• Major: Marketing
• Minor: International Business, Politics & Public Policy

• Previous THON™ Involvement:
  

  THON 2024: Donor and Alumni Relations Committee Member

  THON 2025: Merchandise Committee Member

  THON 2026: Public Relations Digital Marketing Captain

• Why did you want to become a director for the largest student-run philanthropy in the world? I wanted to become a director for the largest student run philanthropy in the world because I am committed to doing everything in my power to make the world a better place. My involvement in Penn State THON has become one of my proudest accomplishments, and I’ve truly found a home and purpose within this organization. THON is unlike any other organization, and this community consists of the most dedicated and inspiring individuals I have ever met. I grow more in awe of this community and our commitment to the fight against childhood cancer every single day. The THON community serves as a pillar of hope that a cure for childhood cancer is possible, and one day we will be dancing in celebration. Until then, we will continue to show up for our families and do everything in our power to support them on their journey through something no family should have to go through.
• What are your main responsibilities as a Director for THON™ 2027? As the Public Relations Digital Content Director for THON 2027, I am responsible for serving as the voice of THON to spread awareness for our mission on a local, state, and national level. I lead a committee of 19 captains and 2 CM committees across Video Production, Social Media, Graphic Design, and Photography teams. I lead my captains in content creation and visual storytelling to amplify the stories of our organization. As a director, I serve on the Executive Committee, working closely with 18 other directors to further our fundraising and awareness efforts.
• What is your favorite THON memory? While it is hard to choose just one favorite memory, a moment that stands out to me is during Final Four of THON 2026. I had the privilege of standing in the pit just in front of the stage as a PR Captain. Being this close allowed me to connect with the family speakers on a new level. Seeing the raw emotions on the faces of the family and their paired organization as they shared their story truly grounded me. It reminded me why we do what we do, and that our philanthropy truly makes a difference in the lives of these families.
• What is your favorite quote? “When we do things for ourselves, they die with us. When we do things for humanity, they live on forever.” — Charles Millard
• What are you involved in outside of being a THON™ Director?  Outside of being a THON Director, I work as a Peer Writing Tutor at Penn State Learning. I am also working at The Hershey Company as a Marketing Intern on the Communications Strategy Team. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, reading, cooking, and spending time with my friends and family!
• What are your plans after graduation from Penn State? I plan to pursue a career in marketing or advertising strategy. I also hope to continue to travel to new countries and give back to the community as much as I can!