Dance Marathon is now an 18-year tradition at Iowa State. Contrary to what our name suggests, it is neither a dance nor a marathon, but a celebration of life. All year, Iowa State Dance Marathon works to raise funds and awareness through various events, such as the “4K For The Kids” fun run, high school dance marathons and game-watches with alumni. 

Iowa State Dance Marathon serves kids and their families treated at University of Iowa Children’s Hospital through emotional and financial support. Though Iowa State Dance Marathon does serve Miracle Kids who have been treated for cancer, the Miracle Families experience a myriad of illnesses, including kidney disease, Hirschsprung’s disease, Spina Bifida and so much more.

The Iowa State Dance Marathon year ends during Dance Marathon Weekend, where dancers are welcomed to meet families who have been impacted by Dance Marathon’s fundraising, play games with Miracle Kids and dance with hundreds of other students. It is a time when ISU students stand together for a cause bigger than themselves and it is truly inspiring.

This year was the first ever Dance Marathon Weekend, splitting the previous 15-hour event to two 12-hour events. Students were given the choice between two shifts. Those who chose Friday stood from 7 p.m. on Jan. 23 to 7 a.m. on Jan. 24, and those who chose Saturday stood from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Jan. 24. All participants were invited back at 11 p.m. on Jan. 24, when it was revealed that together they raised over $444,000 for the hospital.

All of this work would not have been possible without the dedication of over 200 committee members who worked year-round to plan events, reach out to alumni, recruit students, acquire sponsorships, build relationships and raise a record amount of funds for the kids.

We are extremely proud of what our committees achieved and of each one of you who played any role in making this year the most successful to date. Thank you so very much.