I feel I must reply to the letter by Emily Metz, regarding the Dance Marathon, posted in the April 7 issue of the Daily. I believe she was attempting to shine the spotlight on the greek system. However, the light she gained illuminated a whining and self-serving individual. What is it about the Dance Marathon which would reserve a front page article the following day? Was it the fact that it was a philanthropic event, that it was for a worthy cause, that it was produced by the greek system, the amount of money it raised, or was it a desire for recognition? I will evaluate these options in turn.

The mere fact that it was philanthropic event would not reserve the front page, nor would the fact that it was for a good cause. The university community holds countless charitable events during the course of the year and they are all for substantial, worthwhile causes. This is especially the case for the greek system. Not all events can be placed on the front page. The fact that the number of charitable events produced by the greek system is so great and that it becomes difficult for the Daily to cover them all is a compliment in and of itself.

Perhaps it the fact that the Dance Marathon raised such an enormous amount of money. It is true that I have not seen another greek philanthropy raise such an enormous amount. I too am in the greek system, and I am the philanthropy chair of my house. I realize the difficulty and time it takes to organize an event and to raise contributions for a worthy cause. However, the money was not as difficult to raise for the event as it may seem.

For those of you not aware of Greek Week, it is a collaboration between all greek houses in mind, body and spirit. Work is done by the greek system for the community, the annual blood drive is organized and houses enter friendly competition in numerous events. However, even when in good fun, the goal is always to be crowned champion. Every facet of Greek Week has points associated with it to be earned by the houses. The team with the highest point total wins. This year, for the first time to my recollection, a specific philanthropy was attached to Greek Week, the Dance Marathon. In order to receive full points, each house needed five participants with a total of $75 each. With around 45 houses participating, the calculation comes out to $16,875 of guaranteed contributions. The amount does not seem nearly as astounding when put into perspective.

This leaves the last option, personal gratification. I in no way wish to diminish the efforts put forth by all those involved with the Dance Marathon. However, much can be accomplished when no one is concerned with who gets the credit. Emily mentions that the main reason she wanted the front page article was for the kids. “To see something in the paper would have been so special for them.” How many of these children subscribe to the Daily, and if they do, why could they not read the article on Thursday? In my opinion, the support of the community, both emotionally and financially, is what is so special for them. Let’s be honest, Emily. Did you desire an article for the kids, or did you need to fill a page in your scrapbook and receive a big pat on the back?

Mark Herrington

Senior

Psychology