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College DM programs present, students recognized at DMLC 2022

The entire Dance Marathon team, including DM at FSU and DM at UF students, pose for a phot in front of a Children's Miracle Network Hospitals cardboard cutout.

This summer was exciting for our Miracle Network Dance Marathon programs that support UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital.

The manager teams from Dance Marathon at Florida State University, Dance Marathon at the University of Florida and OwlThon at Florida Atlantic University were thrilled to attend the Dance Marathon Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Ga., July 21-24, for the first time in two years. Attendees gained insight into the best peer-to-peer fundraising practices and ways to develop effective strategies to raise funds and generate awareness for their member hospital. Our collegiate students had the opportunity to expand their social network by growing connections with students that share a similar passion for changing children’s health. They exchanged ideas and best practices together, which was one of the most enriching experiences our students enjoyed.

Two of our programs, DM at FSU and DM at UF, had the opportunity to present at the conference. Both programs practiced their public speaking and partnership pitch skills by presenting in the corporate partner annual pitch competition for Love’s Travel Stops. Additionally, during the best practice presentation blocks, DM at UF presented on “Building Successful Mini Marathons” and “Branding and Marketing Strategies” while DM at FSU showcased “Fundraising Development” and “Fundraising Data Tracking for Push Days.”

At the conference, DM at UF earned the 2022 Merchandise Award for their innovative and creative approach to merchandise sales. As an integral part of the organization’s goals for the 2021-2022 season, DM at UF ensured their five merchandise collections had a special meaning, which led to a 53% increase in merchandise profits.

Three of our Miracle Network Dance Marathon students were awarded the Graduated Senior Leadership Award. In total, only 29 graduated college and high school student leaders are recognized for their exceptional impact within their Dance Marathon program. We are so proud of Kayla Anschuetz from Dance Marathon at the University of Florida, Sam Meier from Dance Marathon at Florida State University and Abby Ferrell of Eastside High School in Gainesville, Fla. Thank you for your commitment to raising funds and awareness for UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital!