Creighton University Senior Receives 2017 Miracle Network Dance Marathon Distinguished Leadership Award
From the thousands of graduating seniors who have participated in Miracle Network Dance Marathon at the approximately 300 colleges and universities across the U.S. and Canada, twenty students were selected to receive the 2017 Miracle Network Dance Marathon Distinguished Leadership Award for making an exceptional impact within their Dance Marathon program, on their individual campus and for their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. To see all of this year’s recipients, click here.
Dance Marathon Involvement: I have been the Creighton University Dance Marathon Internal President for the past two years. I helped put on the first ever CUDM in 2015.
Campus/Community Involvement: Varsity Rowing Team, Vice President of Mission and Service for the Panhellenic Council, Vice President of Service for Magis Ambassadors, Church Sacristan, Cortina live-in service community, Markoe Leadership Scholar, Pi Beta Phi women’s fraternity, Medical School Standardized Patient, SAVE Program tutor, University of Limerick international student ambassador, exercise science research assistant, residence hall desk receptionist, medical school student work study, new student orientation leader, Fellowship of Christian Athletes , Pre-Physician Assistant Club
Awards/Recognition: Founders Footsteps Award, Creighton Student Union Founders Week (2016 & 2017), Creighton University Diversity Scholarship (2013 – Present), Pi Beta Phi Foundation Scholarship (2015), Pi Beta Phi Foundation Sign of the Arrow Scholarship (2016), University of Limerick President’s Volunteer Award (Fall 2014), Creighton University Athletics Academic Distinction Award , Creighton University Dean’s List & Dean’s Service Honor Roll, Creighton University Diversity Scholarship, Father Lannon Leadership Scholarship, West Coast Conference Pre-Season Rowing Team 2016
Post-Graduation Plans: I plan to serve for two years abroad in the Peace Corps and then attend Physician Assistant school.
What personal accomplishment/contribution are you most proud of from your involvement in Dance Marathon?
I am completely and utterly amazed by CUDM. My proudest accomplishment is simply holding our first event back in 2015. I had never heard of the Dance Marathon movement before it was plopped into my lap. I was assigned President of a new group I did not understand and was supposed to get the entire campus on board. A lot of people doubted our efforts. Team member quit. We experienced setback after setback. So instead of the large dollar signs and a perfect retention rate, I decided to make my focus raising awareness about pediatric illness. That mental switch proved to me the power of purpose. Even if our event flopped and we raised $13.89, that’s still $13.89 more in funds that can used to purchase lifesaving equipment. I am so proud to say that I helped start the first ever Creighton University Dance Marathon—a new tradition on campus and the 2016 Best New Dance Marathon Award winner!
Why do you, personally, participate in Dance Marathon?
My reasons for participating in Dance Marathon are constantly growing. It began as a new adventure in leadership and has transformed into a passionate love for the movement. It is also my way to give back. My younger brother had a near death drowning as a child but was fortunately taken to a Children’s hospital. He is with us today because of the properly sized equipment, experienced doctors, and loving care provided by the Children’s Hospital. My work with dance marathon is making life a reality for those who need it most. I truly believe we are saving the world, one less sick kid at a time.
How has Dance Marathon impacted you as a student leader? What specific skills have you developed during your involvement?
I have grown significantly from my experience leading CUDM. Many struggles and setbacks have been dealt my way but my “FTK” motivation kept me going. Dance Marathon has taught me how to be a servant leader. Vulnerably and humility were two traits I had to acquire to survive starting a new event on campus. I had to lead my team by serving and struggling with them. I had to honestly let them know when I had no idea what I was doing and when I couldn’t meet all the demands placed on me. The success of our efforts has fueled me with confidence in my overall life. I have witnessed what hard work can do. Dance Marathon has also taught me how to navigate the relationships needed as a student leader. I have worked with DM regional managers, corporate sponsors, and university officials in order to put our event on. Dance Marathon has by far been the greatest leadership experience of my college career.
Why should students get involved with Miracle Network Dance Marathon on their campus?
Students should get involved with their campus Miracle Network Dance Marathon for countless reasons. First of all, it is fun! It is not just a campus club; it is a family reaching across the US and Canada. Dance Marathon also provides opportunities for personal growth, professional development, and community enrichment. One of the greatest reasons students should get involved with Dance Marathon is For The Kids. We have a duty to fight for the next generation. We are helping to provide care for our future teachers, presidents, artists, and the future students who will one day be sitting in our old desks.
Why should people donate to their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals?
Pediatric illness affects the child, the family, and the future. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals are the hope that keeps each part moving. Donations are needed to provide the greatest care possible. We must do what we can to fight for the next generation.
Miracle Network Dance Marathon is an international movement, involving over 300 colleges and universities across North America that fundraise for their local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Since its inception in 1991, Miracle Network Dance Marathon has raised more than $180 million–ensuring that no child or family fights pediatric illness or injury alone.
Learn more about Miracle Network Dance Marathon: