As THON 2013 makes its first steps, I compiled a little background information on each of the overalls. Over the next few days, you will get a chance to learn a little bit about each member. Today features Morale and Communications.

Mike Wellner, Rules & Regulations

Current Year: Senior
Major(s)/Minor(s): Supply Chain Management/Spanish, International Business
Fun Fact: When trying to conquer my fear of heights, I actually made it much worse when bungee jumping.

1. Why did you want the position of Overall, and why for the committee that you now lead?

I wanted to be a member of the Overall Committee for THON because helping those in need is my passion. The students at Penn State are in an amazing position to do this and they have proven year after year that they can achieve amazing things. Ever since I became involved in THON freshman year as a Rules and Regulations Committee Member, I have desired to do more for this organization and to inspire THON’s volunteers to help lead this organization in the future. I have learned so much in my years of involvement with THON and I believed that this experience along with my passion would make me a valuable member of the Overall Committee.

2. What are you most looking forward to in THON 2013?

There are so many things that I am excited for this year. It is an amazing opportunity to serve on the Overall Committee and experience everything that it is. I am most excited about the opportunity to interact first-hand with the children and families and really establish a personal relationship with those towards whom my efforts are directed. I also am excited to see the amazing things the Overall Committee can accomplish. I think we are in an amazing position to build on the past and make THON 2013 the best THON to date.

Joey Cassidy, Entertainment

Current Year: Junior
Major(s)/Minor(s): Secondary Education
Fun Fact: I have the same birthday as Harry Potter.

1. Why did you want the position of Overall, and why for the committee that you now lead?

I really wanted to make a lasting impact on THON. The work that THON does for the Four Diamonds Fund and the families has had such an influence on my life, and I saw the Overall Committee as an opportunity to give back to this cause on a daily basis. As far as Entertainment, this is a committee with enormous room for growth. We are always looking for new ways to entertain the kids and the dancers. I saw in this position a chance to develop new ways to spread awareness and generate enthusiasm. In the end, it is all about making sure that the kids have the best weekend possible and I felt that by building on THON’s Entertainment, I could help in doing so.

2. What are you most looking forward to in THON 2013?

I think I am most looking forward to seeing all of the new ideas that our volunteers have. THON has such an enthusiastic volunteer base and I am blown away what they accomplish every year. One of the most exciting things for the families is that when they come to THON every year, they can expect a completely different event from the year before. I can’t wait to see what new ideas and projects move THON forward and benefit the lives of our families this year.