THON Returns In-Person

Story posted February 13, 2022 in THON 2022 by Jacob Cheris.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — After being shut down last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, THON is finally back in-person. Students all across Penn State are excited to stand and dance for 46 hours at the Bryce Jordan Center.

Although the event was virtual, it still raised just over $11-million.

Erik Malanowski (third-year — mechanical engineering) says that it is good to see the Penn State community head in the right direction.

“THON is a big event where people work really hard throughout their college career,” Malanowksi said. “It’s good for the dancers to be in person, everyone enjoying it together for a good cause.”

“If we have the ability to help others who need it more, that's what we have to do as a community and as a world,” Malanowski said.

All spectators ages 2 and older are required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test by Feb. 16. There will be 667 dancers.

Katie Thompson (second-year — animal science) did not get to experience what the true meaning of THON is about due to it being virtual in 2021.

“It's gonna be even more special because you actually get to physically see the families that are impacted and see their raw reactions,” Thompson said.

Thompson’s father danced in THON back when he was a student in the 80s.

THON kicks off on Friday Feb. 18 and will go until Feb. 20.

 

Jacob Cheris is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email jacobcheris19@gmail.com.