Penn State Students Prepare for 46-Hour THON Marathon

Annual student-run dance fundraiser for pediatric cancer research and families

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Penn State University is gearing up for its annual THON event, a 46-hour dance marathon that raises money for pediatric cancer research and support. Hundreds of students, including two from the Penn State Scranton campus, will participate as dancers, staying on their feet for the entire 46-hour event. The students have been training and preparing by cutting out caffeine, practicing standing for long periods, and using compression socks to endure the marathon.

Why it matters

THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, drawing thousands of Penn State students and community members to raise critical funds for pediatric cancer. The event highlights the university's commitment to supporting families affected by childhood cancer and advancing medical research in this area.

The details

THON is a 46-hour dance marathon that takes place at Penn State University each year. Hundreds of students participate as dancers, required to stay on their feet for the entire event. This year, two dancers from the Penn State Scranton campus, Alexis Colasurdo and Airiana Scarfo, will be participating. The students have been preparing by eliminating caffeine, practicing standing for long periods, and using compression socks to help them endure the marathon.

  • THON 2026 will take place from February 20-22, 2026.

The players

Alexis Colasurdo

A senior at Penn State Scranton and one of the dancers participating in THON 2026.

Airiana Scarfo

A senior at Penn State Scranton and one of the dancers participating in THON 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really excited because last year I went and I was able to go on the floor twice. It was a lifechanging experience. It was very emotional too.”

— Airiana Scarfo, Penn State Scranton student (wnep.com)

“I think I'm most looking forward to just seeing the amount of people who are going to be there and the community because I don't think I can get a grasp of how many people are going to be there until I'm actually there.”

— Alexis Colasurdo, Penn State Scranton student (wnep.com)

What’s next

THON 2026 will take place from February 20-22, 2026 at Penn State University.

The takeaway

THON is a powerful example of student-driven philanthropy, with Penn State students coming together each year to raise critical funds for pediatric cancer research and support. The 46-hour dance marathon showcases the university's commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected by childhood cancer.