In my three years at Penn State, the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon has been without question one of the biggest parts of my life as a student. I have danced, been on multiple committees and canned numerous times. I lost multiple grandparents to cancer and am firmly behind the cause. That being said, there is one specific part of THON that really irks me. After the total is raised, students scream, applaud and are filled with joy. I understand that and share those feelings. These students also go on Facebook and post the total in pride. Although some may consider it a little pompous, I have no problem with this either.
However, in at least the past three years, a Facebook group has emerged titled, "Our school raised $X,XXX,XXX ... What did your school do?" This I have a problem with. As the largest student- run philanthropy in the world, it is our responsibility to set a good example for universities across the nation that model their philanthropies after ours. A title like this sends the complete wrong message about THON.
To the creator of these groups and the thousands who join them, please refrain from doing so. It is important to remember that the best charity is anonymous. While it is OK to take pride in the year-long fundraising effort, it is imperative we remember that at the heart of these efforts are the kids we are helping.
Ryan Staloff
junior-journalism and economics
