Name: Kristen Donahoe

Major: Master of Business Administration

Previous THON Experience:

THON 2022 – OPPerations committee member

THON 2023 – Dancer Relations committee member

THON 2024 – Communications Captain: Hershey Tours and Events Coordinator

THON 2025 – Alumni Engagement Director

What made you want to apply for a director position for THON 2026?

A quote that has shaped my THON experience is, “No matter what life gives you, give more back.” When I decided to stay at Penn State to get my master’s degree, applying for the Executive Committee again was a no-brainer. Serving on the Executive Committee last year as the Alumni Engagement Director was the most fulfilling, rewarding experience of my life. At the end of last year, I knew I had more to give.

This organization has provided me with a home, a community, and a lifetime of connection. I could spend the rest of my life trying to give more back to THON, but I don’t think I could ever scratch the surface of what it has given me. My main motivation in applying for the Executive Committee for THON 2026 was to continue serving our families and making sure that no family fights alone. I also wanted to serve our selfless volunteers who pour so much time and energy into our mission. Overall, I wanted to leave Penn State knowing I did everything I could to leave this organization better than I found it.

What are your responsibilities as a THON Director?

As the Volunteer Logistics Director, I oversee the efforts and logistics of thousands of committee volunteers in the fight against childhood cancer. No two days look the same, and each day brings a new set of challenges and responsibilities. I serve as a resource, sounding board, and support to all committee members, captains, and directors as they navigate their journey as a volunteer for THON 2026. Through serving on the Executive Committee, I advocate for all volunteers to provide strategic support for large-scale decisions. As a brand-new position for THON 2026, I spearhead ways to ensure our volunteers feel supported, have equitable opportunities for growth, and can best position themselves to support our families and further our mission.

What do you want to implement in your position this year that differs from years past?

This is the inaugural year of the Volunteer Logistics committee, so I have the unique opportunity to shape this position with no prior frame of reference. The addition of this position came from the continued growth of our organization and the need for more direct support to our volunteers. There was a need for a “go-to” person for all issues, questions, and concerns regarding our volunteers, and it is an honor to spearhead this role and be that person. I hope to implement a clear path forward so that the Volunteer Logistics Committee can continue to grow in the future.

What makes your committee so cool, fun, and/or important?

One unique aspect of my committee is that it is just me! Unlike every other committee, I do not directly oversee captains or committee members. This allows me to make unbiased decisions that are in the best interest of THON and our volunteers as a whole. Through this, I can provide equal and equitable support to all volunteers. In the future, Volunteer Logistics will hopefully grow to include captains and committee members, but, for now, it is a committee of one!

What are the overall goals you hope to reach with your committee for THON 2026?

My primary goal is to ensure that every volunteer feels supported and knows that they are making a difference. I want to enhance growth opportunities for leadership, increase education, and be a resource to every committee member and captain for whatever they may need. I hope to empower our volunteer base to reach new heights and continue the sustained growth of THON as a whole.

Why do you THON?

There are one million reasons why I THON. Over five years, my “why” has been shaped and molded by every story I’ve heard, every family I have interacted with, and every moment shared. To put it simply, I THON so that no family fights alone.

What’s your favorite THON memory?

While it is quite difficult to pick just one, I would say my favorite THON memory is Dancer Stand at the beginning of THON Weekend 2025. Standing on the stage with the Executive Committee and counting down to thousands of dancers and spectators taking a physical stand in the fight against childhood cancer was incredibly special. It was a beautiful culmination of a year-long effort of thousands of students, alumni, and supporters.

Per Onward State tradition, if you could be any dinosaur, which one would you be and why?

I really know nothing about dinosaurs, so I’ll go with a classic and say Pterodactyl.