As THON Weekend 2023 approaches, 16 THON committees with over 16,500 volunteer students continue preparations for the upcoming 46-hour philanthropy event from Friday to Sunday.
In an unprecedented move by Penn State and Four Diamonds authorities, THON was shifted to a virtual format this year due to rising public health concerns from the coronavirus pandemic.
THON dancers and attendees were no longer allowed inside the Bryce Jordan Center, and performers and dance captains had limited access to the main stage. Proceedings were broadcasted by 46 Live on THONâs website.
Despite THON 2021 being Dhanesh Ranaweeraâs senior THON, the four-year OPPerations Committee member said he was relatively unphased by the virtual shift.
âI think they did their best for what it was,â Ranaweera (senior-chemical engineering) said. âI know the captains worked very hard to establish a great THON weekend, and I think it went perfectly.â
Past THON Experience
THON 2019: OPPerations Committee Member
THON 2020: OPPerations Captain – Set Up Tear Down
Name an interesting, weird, or quirky fact about yourself:
My ankles constantly crack.
What made you want to apply for the OPPerations Director position for THON 2021?
Being involved with THON has been the highlight of my college career. I first joined THON my freshman year and instantly fell in love with the Big Blue Family and all it had to offer. Last year, I served as an OPPerations Captain where I led a committee of 35 student volunteers. As a Captain, I had the opportunity to unite a group of students from all different backgrounds and interests to achieve one common goal – to improve the lives of those fighting hard to beat childhood cancer.