For anyone who has never attended the Dance Marathon, the event is nothing short of amazing. Every year, for the past 29 years, Penn States students have selflessly volunteered to fight childhood cancer through the Penn State Dance marathon. The enthusiasm, passion and caring displayed by everyone associated with Thon is heartwarming.

It is especially moving for me to see the inspiration that Penn State students provide to the families and the children affected with cancer. Those who participate touch these lives in meaningful and lasting ways. Thon gives families hope.

This year, our students have again outdone themselves by raising more than $3.6 million for The Four Diamonds Fund at The Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Over the nearly three decades of its existence, Thon has collected more than $14 million for the families of children and young adults with cancer who are being cared for at the Medical Center, as well as providing funding for pediatric cancer research in Penn State's College of Medicine.

I want to commend everyone involved with Dance Marathon. You are a great source of pride for Penn State. Year after year, as I spend time with the dancers and the many individuals who give time "behind the scenes" both before and during the event, I am profoundly touched by your perserverance and compassion. You truly exemplify all that is good about this institution, and I thank you for showing the world the power of caring.