The tech that drives THON THON Weekend will be held primarily virtually for the first time in its nearly 50-year history, making the committee that plans and manages technology for THON more essential than ever. Image: Penn State The tech that drives THON Emma Riglin February 16, 2021 UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The roar of a huge crowd. Speakers blasting the music to the line dance. Thousands of people in bright colors dancing at the Bryce Jordan Center on Penn State's University Park campus. These are the sights and sounds that typically define the atmosphere at the Penn State Dance Marathon, more familiarly known as THON. But this year, with restrictions on in-person gatherings due to COVID-19, things will look and feel a little different.