Dance Marathon exceeds $1 million fundraising goal

Dance Marathon, Florida State University’s largest student-run philanthropy, reached and surpassed its goal to raise $1 million at its 20th annual event Feb. 27-March 1.

More than 1,800 students participated in two shifts at the 40-hour event that raised a record $1,100,645.52 — a 28 percent increase over last year’s grand total.

The annual event raises funds to support Tallahassee’s local Children’s Miracle Network hospital and the FSU College of Medicine’s Pediatric Outreach Programs.

“We’re standing for those that can’t,” said Jenna Jackson, executive director of Dance Marathon. “We’re standing for the children who are sick or in need of medical care.”

Students danced and played games throughout the event at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, and they listened to several Tallahassee Miracle Families speak about how Dance Marathon has contributed to their family.

“Our Miracle Families are at the heart of what we do, but it’s so amazing to see everyone come together,” Jackson said.

President Thrasher and wife Jean join the fun at the 2015 Dance Marathon event.

Over the past 20 years, Dance Marathon at FSU has raised more than $6.4 million for the For more information or to make a donation, visit http://www.noles4kids.org/.local Children’s Miracle Network hospital and the FSU College of Medicine.