More than 3,000 University of Maryland students raised a record $1,001,394 at the eighth annual Terp Thon dance marathon on Saturday. This was a 38 percent increase from the previous year and made Terp Thon the nation's ninth largest dance marathon – among 300 schools that raise money for the Children's Miracle Network. The university achieved the $1 million faster than any other school.
The dance marathon culminated a year-long fundraising effort, and students stayed on their feet from noon till midnight to represent the 12-hour shift of many Children's National nurses, doctors, and staff members. Both University President Dr. Wallace Loh and Children's National President and CEO Dr. Kurt Newman attended the event.
The event also garnered the support and attendance of 15 former Children's National patients, known to the Terp Thon students as "Miracle Kids." Throughout the day Saturday, different Miracle Kids took the stage to share their story and inspire the students who packed into UMD's Reckord Armory. Overall, the students raised more than $164,000 during the dance marathon to help all kids at Children's National grow up stronger.
"Much like we do at Children's National, Terp Thon truly puts kids at the center of everything they do," said Tracy Jones, senior associate director for Children's Miracle Network at Children's National. "Students at the University of Maryland have made it a priority to care for their community, and we are grateful that they have chosen our patients and families at Children's National to benefit from their tireless efforts. Every single child who comes through our doors will feel the impact of this incredible fundraising accomplishment."
About Children's National Health System
Children's National Health System, based in Washington, D.C., has been serving the nation's children since 1870. Children's National is ranked in the top 20 in every specialty evaluated by U.S. News & World Report; one of only four children's hospitals in the nation to earn this distinction. Designated a Leapfrog Group Top Hospital and a two-time recipient of Magnet® status, this pediatric academic health system offers expert care through a convenient, community-based primary care network and specialty outpatient centers. Home to the Children's Research Institute and the Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National is one of the nation's top NIH-funded pediatric institutions. Children's National is recognized for its expertise and innovation in pediatric care and as a strong voice for children through advocacy at the local, regional and national levels. For more information, visit ChildrensNational.org.
