Cause for Dancing

Nearly 200 Seattle University's students kicked up their heels for as good a cause as you'll find this past weekend and the results were stunning. 

The 16-hour, student-led Dance Marathon, held Feb. 21-22 in Campion Ballroom, raised $ $68,417.71 for Seattle Children's Hospital. 

Dance Marathon is "the culmination of our year long fundraising efforts for Seattle Children's Hospitals Uncompensated Care Fund," said Executive Director Emily Downing, '16. "This fund provides life-saving treatment for families who cannot afford the full cost of their child's care. We believe in a world eradicated of pediatric illness, and dance in solidarity for our miracle children and their families."

One hundred percent of the funds raised go the hospital for families needing it most. 

This year's fundraising total is a record, besting last year's by nearly $10,000. Now in its eighth year, Dance Marathon has raised around a quarter of a million dollars. 

"I'm always excited to see what the students participating in Dance Marathon are able to accomplish," said Bernie Liang, director of Student Activities. "People see the 16-hour dance but really, it's planned throughout the year. Our students work hard to make a difference for the families at Seattle Children's. What else can I be but proud?" 

SU's Dance Marathon has quickly become the largest of its kind on the west coast and the recipient of numerous recognitions. Dance Marathon won the Chairman's Award for Guild Excellence presented by the Seattle Children's Hospital Guild Association Board of Trustees in 2013. It also received an award for best website at the 2014 National Dance Marathon Conference and was nominated for an award in innovation. 

For many students who participate, Dance Marathon is a distinct highlight of their SU experience. "For me there is no other more vibrant embodiment of the SU mission on our campus than Dance Marathon," alumna Katy Granath, '14, said. "It was a signature part of my Seattle University student experience, and I wouldn't trade it for the world." 

Visit Dance Marathon for more photos and videos from this year's event.