Jagathon, IUPUI’s dance marathon, broke several records this year when students raised $351,430.22, more than doubling last year’s total. 1,000 students registered to participate in the 13.1 hour dance marathon, the most in Jagathon’s history at IUPUI.

This is the third year in a row the event raised totals in the six-digit range. Students say they were awe-struck by such a display of community and passion for Riley, with the event so near to many Kelley student’s hearts. In fact, Kelley students made up a third of the leadership team for the 2017 Jagathon!

We asked a few of our Kelley students to reflect on this record-breaking event – here’s what they had to say:

“Jagathon has given me the opportunity to work with the most passionate student leaders on campus, and to work together for the kids at Riley Hospital for Children. I am in complete shock that we increased our overall total by 150% this year, and it is all because of the dedication of the Jagathon committee and community to helping our Indianapolis community.”

— Anna Bruick, Director of Dancer Relations

“I’m very proud to have served on the Executive Board for Jagathon with some of the most talented and capable leaders IUPUI has to offer. Having the opportunity to serve as the Director of Committee Relations and later as the Director of Monetary Sponsorships has given me a broad perspective on all of the work that goes into making Jagathon successful, and I know that our success is directly attributable to the students here on campus. A 151% increase from last year’s total is exciting and also intimidating, but I know that with the continued support and hard work of our committee that we will continue to make miracles happen for the kids.”

— Shane Mosby, Director of Committee Relations

“Once again, Jagathon has inspired me to go above and beyond to help create miracles for the kids. I tear up every time I see the final total. Knowing the hard work from myself and every committee member as well as the support from IUPUI, the community, families and friends allowed Jagathon to be a part of finding cures.”

— Natalia Biley, Director of Fundraising

“My favorite part about Jagathon would have to be the people involved and how everyone comes from a different background but we all come together for the Kids!! It is such an amazing feeling to know that all the hard work we have all put in this past year will go a long way to helping pediatric research grow at Riley Hospital for Children.”

— Alex Bajzatt, Director of Committee Relations