Penn State Brandywine Selects THON 2026 Dancers

Three Penn State Brandywine students — Charles Carlini, Morgan Gallagher, and Joey Pretti — have been selected as THON 2026 dancers. They'll take part in the annual 46-hour fundraising event at Penn State's Bryce Jordan Center in University Park from Feb. 20 to 22.

THON is a nonprofit, student-led organization focused on pediatric cancer fundraising and awareness, and stands as the world's largest student-run philanthropy. During THON Weekend, students from Penn State Brandywine will join thousands of others in a nonstop dance marathon to raise funds and awareness for pediatric cancer. Each dancer has a personal connection to the cause, bringing their own motivations and stories to this incredible journey.

Carlini, a first-year communication arts and sciences major, said he wanted to dance for THON to give families a reason to smile.

“My motivation to dance is helping people smile who really need it, especially if they haven't felt joy in their lives while going through treatment,” he said in a Penn State Brandywine news release.

Gallagher, a third-year business major with a focus in marketing, said she wanted to dance for the kids because of personal connections to those with cancer.

“I've had some of my family members go through treatment, so I want to show them that I can do something challenging, too,” she said.

Pretti, a second-year kinesiology major, is returning to THON for a second year. After his time at THON Weekend last February was cut short by an injury, he is ready to return to the Bryce Jordan Center next year.

“I want to come back stronger this year, make a better impact, and meet the fellow dancers and families,” he said.

The Brandywine THON team has set a fundraising goal of $30,000 to support children battling pediatric cancer. Supporters can contribute through the Brandywine Benefitting THON Donor Drive. More details are available online.