This year’s Dance Marathon raised $300 more than last year’s for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation Jan. 28.
More than 150 students turned out for the six-hour marathon, which raised more than $2,600 for the foundation, according to Women’s Initiative Director Quinn Pregliasco.
The event became an AU tradition four years ago when a student interested in the foundation came to Women’s Initiative proposing that AU sponsor a dance marathon.
“It’s another event that captures the true spirit of the AU community,” said Nate Bronstein, Student Government president.
Dance marathons are held at universities across the country to raise money for the cause. The amount of time students spend on their feet represents the emotional and physical challenges faced by children living with HIV or AIDS.
A $15 donation covers the cost of giving treatment to a pregnant HIV-positive woman, ensuring that her baby will be HIV-negative, according to the foundation’s website.
The marathon also featured performances from the AU Bhangra Team and a capella groups On a Sensual Note and Treble in Paradise.
Most of the food, which included Chipotle and Georgetown Cupcakes, was donated or provided at a reduced rate, Pregliasco said. The Washington Nationals also donated tickets, which were raffled off later in the evening.
“The whole community has been really supportive of our efforts,” Pregliasco said.
Coca-Cola donated 10 cases of its Fuze juice products and 15 T-shirts that were given away throughout the night.
“We are absolutely willing and honored to contribute to great causes like these,” said Kristin San Fanshawe, the Coca-Cola Campus Ambassador for AU.
Other teams of participants included Women’s Initiative, Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority, Alpha Phi Omega Community Service Fraternity and AU Women’s Rugby Football Club.
nlavin@theeagleonline.com
