THON Aims for Awareness with New Event Series

With just three weeks left before the annual Penn State Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, THON has kicked off a new, pre-marathon event series.

Awareness Week for THON, which began Monday morning, is designed to advance public knowledge about THON and the causes that it benefits. All THON proceeds go to The Four Diamonds Funds, which supports pediatric-cancer treatment and research.

‘Awareness Week will not only serve as a great way to continue the increasing enthusiasm among students as THON Weekend approaches, but also to broaden Penn State’s knowledge of The Four Diamonds Fund and pediatric-cancer facts,’ THON Public Relations Chairwoman Jony Rommel said in a press release.

THON organizers have outlined how Awareness Week will unfold. Here’s an overview:

• Monday: From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., students were encouraged to wear their THON gear. Tables set up in the HUB-Robeson Center underscored different elements of THON. Live performances also stirred enthusiasm in the HUB during the midday hours.

• Tuesday: From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., four tables in the HUB will highlight THON, including this year’s logo, THON stickers and a ‘happy quarters collection’ effort. From 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., a Four Diamonds panel will be hosted in the HUB Auditorium. That’s expected to include Four Diamonds Children and a member of the Four Diamonds Advisory Board. Guest speakers will talk about the organization and field questions.

• Wednesday: This is designated as Gold Ribbon Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. a gold-ribbon table will be set up in the HUB. Students will hand out gold ribbons and information about pediatric cancer. A merchandise sale and a raffle sale also are planned.

• Thursday: A thus-far-undisclosed special event will be held.

Related content

• PHOTOS: THON Supporters Endure Icy Cold for Canning Weekend (Jan. 24, 2011)

• StateCollege.com’s THON page