Dance Marathon at 30: The Stories Behind Iowa's Big Event

PHOTO: TIM SCHOON/UI OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION

This February, University of Iowa Dance Marathon celebrates 30 years of fundraising to support pediatric oncology, hematology, and bone marrow transplant patients at UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Volunteers from the UI’s largest student organization work year-round to visit patients, plan programming, and attract sponsors and dancers leading up to the Big Event. Then, on Feb. 2-3, participants dance for 24 hours to advance research and care that supports over 1,300 families.

One of the founding five Dance Marathon programs launched to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, UI Dance Marathon has raised over $34 million and inspired tens of thousands of participants since it began in Iowa in 1994. The funding has led to everything from endowed positions in child life and pediatric oncology to a $5 million lead gift for the UI Dance Marathon Pediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at the hospital.

As Hawkeyes prepare for their next Big Event, here are a few stories of how Dance Marathon is continuing its 30-year legacy of making a difference.

Meet the Lead Dance Partner

Undergraduate Sushma Santhana guides 200 student leaders as the organization’s executive director.

From Big Brother to the Big Event

Recent grad Aidan Cunningham’s family connection gives extra meaning to his support for UI Dance Marathon.

Dance Marathon Doctor Duo

Physicians share how the Big Event supports cancer treatment and research inside UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

One Family’s Cancer Journey

Grateful for the help they received, the Ulriches now work to support other families facing trying times.