Penn State’s THON: A Pillar of Support for Childhood Cancer Families
HARRISBURG, PA — As the countdown to THON 2025 begins, Penn State University’s annual philanthropy initiative, THON, alongside its beneficiary Four Diamonds, continues to leave an indelible mark on communities throughout Pennsylvania. On Monday, representatives of both organizations visited the Pennsylvania State Capitol to discuss their mission and impact with members of the General Assembly, emphasizing the critical role that student-led fundraising plays in supporting families affected by pediatric cancer.
The delegation included key figures such as Keegan Sobczak, the executive director of THON 2025; Suzanne Graney, the executive director of Four Diamonds; family advocate Rick Jordan; and Dr. Giselle Saulnier Sholler, chief of the Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. Their diverse experiences encapsulated the extensive influence of THON and Four Diamonds on students, families, and healthcare professionals statewide.
“THON represents a collective home where we find support, joy, and hope for Four Diamonds children and their families who face the challenges of childhood cancer,” Sobczak remarked. He expressed the importance of showcasing how engaged college students can effect transformative change within their communities.
Founded in 1977, THON has evolved into the largest student-run philanthropy globally, mobilizing over 16,000 Penn State students each year to organize and execute a monumental fundraising effort culminating in a 46-hour dance marathon at the Bryce Jordan Center every February.
In his remarks, Sobczak recounted his personal journey with THON—transitioning from a virtual role during THON 2022 to taking on leadership responsibilities overseeing volunteers dedicated to the cause. Last year, THON raised a record-breaking .9 million, contributing to an impressive total of over 6 million since its inception, all intended for Four Diamonds. The organization focuses on providing essential financial assistance to families battling childhood cancer and funding critical pediatric cancer research.
Graney elaborated on how the funds gathered through THON support the families of Four Diamonds, which assists an average of 500 families annually. “The energy and dedication of thousands of students empower us to ensure that no Four Diamonds family faces financial burdens while receiving care at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital,” she said.
Jordan, who lost his daughter Lily to pediatric cancer in 2020, shared poignant insights on how Four Diamonds has directly aided families during their most trying times. “Legislators and state officials need to hear firsthand accounts from families affected by pediatric cancer to truly understand the impact of THON and Four Diamonds,” he stated. He expressed his determination to keep his daughter’s memory alive by sharing their story.
Dr. Sholler emphasized the significance of THON’s philanthropic efforts in facilitating groundbreaking research aimed at finding innovative treatments and cures for pediatric cancer. “Our collaboration between clinical care, supportive services, and cutting-edge research fosters a spirit of hope, driven by the critical funding raised by THON students,” she proclaimed.
THON 2025, themed “A Home for Hope,” is scheduled to take place from February 21 to 23 at the Bryce Jordan Center. Interested individuals can learn more about THON and its ongoing initiatives by visiting PLACEHOLDER2b79c6d309e871f6 or following them on social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok. Additional information about Four Diamonds can be found at PLACEHOLDERd56b1e15087b9cb7.
As THON continues to unite students, families, and medical professionals, its ongoing efforts underscore a communal commitment to combating pediatric cancer and supporting affected families throughout Pennsylvania.
