Love Leads Forward: THON 2026 From A Dancer Perspective

THON weekend 2026 came and went. “Love Leads Forward” was the theme, and each word was accurate, as this weekend was driven with the utmost adoration and endearment. We laughed at the delirious jokes made at three in the morning, cried remembering our angels in the “celebration of life” video and got hyped up by Go Go Gadget in the last hour. In the end, we raised $18,841,726.53 all FTK. 

VALLEY sat down with dancer Alexa (Lexi) Patberg (pictured above), a third-year student studying electrical engineering, representing Penn State’s IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers).

I am representing my organization IEEE. IEEE is a program designed to help students with interests in electrical engineering or IST (Information Science Technology). I contribute mainly to our service events and outreach efforts as I am the club’s service chair.

Patberg explains why she wanted to take on the 46-hour no sleeping, no sitting challenge.

Not only do I have a passion for volunteerism, but by dancing in THON I am showing others that engineers don’t just attend class and solve problems — we are more than that. Dancing in THON actually makes us better, more well-rounded engineers, and of course, I’m doing it FTK. Every kid deserves to have a childhood and have the chance to fulfill their dreams.

Patberg also describes what it meant to her to be able to dance in THON this year.

It means representing every child that’s going through an unimaginable battle. Being able to represent this group means so much to me. Taking part in this challenge doesn’t compare to anything they have to go through. Being able to help in some way, shape or form means the world to me.

Patberg left us with one piece of advice for future dancers.

Come in with a positive attitude. It can be intimidating, but try to embrace every experience, whether that be interacting with families or attending pre-THON events — it will truly change your perspective on THON.

Often imitated, yet never replicated, THON is truly something so special. THON is recognized as the world’s largest student-run philanthropy. From committee volunteers, to student dancers to even just people supporting from the stands, none of this would be possible without the student body’s dedication. Thank you to Lexi, all the other dancers and anybody who showed up. THON may not be until next year, but we are forever and always, FTK.

How was your THON experience this year? Let us know @VALLEYMag on Instagram!

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