“Surpassing our goal by over $7,000 and raising more than $25,000 on our first push day this year is a powerful testament to the dedication and passion of everyone involved,” said Sarah Springer, executive director of QTHON. “Every team captain, committee member and participant plays a meaningful role in reaching our fundraising goals and helping us ‘Light the Way’ for future generations. I am so excited to see everything we can do as a Quinnipiac community in these next five months.”

QTHON’s internal team raised $25,596 during the third annual QTHON Cares event, which drew over 600 attendees on October 22.

QTHON is a student-led organization that raises funds and awareness for the patients and families at Connecticut Children's, the only health system in Connecticut 100% dedicated to pediatrics.

“I joined QTHON for the opportunity to be a part of an organization that truly makes a difference and allows students to create a lasting impact beyond our campus,” said Madelyn Ruhl ‘27 director of communications. “Being on the management team has shown me the power of coming together as a community and how collective passion and dedication can create real change. This organization has brought some of the most incredible people into my life and deepened my passion for ensuring that all children have the opportunity to receive proper care and support no matter what.”

Each year since 2011, QTHON has hosted a series of fundraising events to raise money to support Connecticut Children’s, culminating with a seven-hour dance marathon with miracle children and hospital administrators, this year set for March 21. This beloved event unites campus organizations to dance the day away and make the Miracle Children’s experience unforgettable. 

“I love seeing our student body come together and the excitement in the children that join us,” said Alex Bassile ‘26, director of operations. “It makes all of the late-night meetings and early-morning fundraising worth it — and I couldn't be more excited to plan this year's event.”

QTHON Cares is the first push day event to kick off the year-long fundraising for QTHON.

The event featured a variety of fun activities, including flower bouquet-making, watercolor painting, bracelet-making, a candy bar, permanent jewelry and informational engagement with NAMI and Here For You clothing boutique. 

“Donations play a crucial role in this mission by funding the hospital's new eight-story clinical tower, set to open in December,” public relations chair Emily Adorno ‘26 said. “This facility will enhance patient care by expanding the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and introducing new units."

Looking to the future, QTHON is preparing for their Day Of event on March 21, which will have even more excitement, activities and donations for a brighter future.