For some people, 26 might seem like an ordinary number. For all of us involved with Dance Marathon, however, 26 is so much more. This year is the 26th year of Dance Marathon at the University of Iowa and the excitement in the air is palpable.  So, what exactly is so exciting about DM 26?  

1. Families

First and foremost, the heart of the organization. Families. Throughout Dance Marathon 26, we have the honor of supporting over 1,000 families. Some of these families are fighting at the University of Iowa Stead family children’s hospital. Some of these families are Dancing in our Hearts families, where a kiddo has sadly passed away from cancer. Some of these families are our forever families, where a kiddo is now cancer-free and forever part of the Dance Marathon family. All of them are our motivation and drive to want to do more in Dance Marathon 26.  

2. Empowerment

In Dance Marathon 26, dancers, families, kiddos, and all supporters will be empowered. We will strive to allow everyone to leave their mark on Dance Marathon and push themselves and each other to do and be the best that we possibly can for the kids. We will have confidence in our ability to change our own lives and the lives of those around us. We will be strong and never give up.

3. Inclusivity

Me. You. He. She. They. Us. University of Iowa Dance Marathon 26. This year, Dance Marathon is striving to create an organization that welcomes, embraces, and encompasses all individuals from all different backgrounds. DM 26 wants to create a change not only among our organization but among the University of Iowa campus and community. DM 26 wants everyone to feel comfortable being nothing less than their true selves.  

4. Unity

We fight together. We are certainly not weak alone but by combining our unique and individual talents and abilities, alongside one common goal, the strength we create is unquantifiable. Simply put, we are better together.

5. Our Vision

While we are not defined by any one phrase or paragraph in our organization, our vision and vision statement for Dance Marathon 26 represents what we will do, how we will do it, and why we will do it. Our vision is arguably the most exciting part of DM 26 and can move mountains. For Dance Marathon 26, our vision statement is: “leading with unyielding bravery Dance Marathon 26 will celebrate our differences to ignite as one. By embracing inclusion, empowering individuals, and fostering community, we commit to the relentless pursuit of our mission. In a collective effort, we will reflect the resilience of our families to ensure they never fight alone.”

By: Jenna Vogel, DM 26 PR Committee