HELLO!
It's me again :) back for my fourth and final year of Zippython (cue the tears)!! In all seriousness, what an absolute joy my four years of Dance Marathon have been. My college experience would be nothing without this wonderful organization and I am so blessed that I was chosen to hold the position of Executive Director and lead Zippython throughout the 2021-2022 fundraising year. I cannot think of a better way to end my time here at the University of Akron.
Zippython is once again supporting Akron Children's Hospital but this year is a little different. Our fundraising efforts this year will 100% support the Hematology and Oncology floor at Akron Children's to help provide life-saving care to kids in need. This cause is beyond incredible and allows the children we support to have the best care possible. Together we can change kids' lives and change the future.
MY JOURNEY THROUGH OUR CAUSE
2021: External Director
2021 brought a new purpose to Zippython. As COVID-19 numbers continued to climb and much in the world was uncertain, I knew my purpose in life was simple - to serve others to the best of my ability. Our exec board took each day for what is was and continued our fight. More often than not we connected via virtual platforms such as Zoom and Google Meets. This year was filled with the realization that not every goal is obtainable but that does not diminish the effort that was put forth. Despite everything, we put on one incredible virtual event and I will forever be able to look back on these videos as a reminder that Dance Marathon is what it is because of the people that believe it the cause. We truly are this generation, fighting for the next. Alyssa, Josie and Abigail - thank you for being my biggest motivators, you each inspire me every single day. 
2020: Recruitment Director
The odds had been against us throughout the entire 2019-2020 fundraising year but nevertheless, we continued to persist. Each time we were told "no" by a higher up, we found someway to make Zippython work. Each time we thought there was no way we would make it through, we made our own path. I will never forget this group of women I was privileged to lead alongside. I cherish the memories I made at the last Zippython event I was able to attend prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic -- the 2020 St. Vincent St. Mary Dance Marathon. 
2019: Participant Dancer
2019 might have been my favorite year of Zippython. I could have never imagined what would have come from attending an interest meeting that Gabby convinced me to come to after one of our Love Your Melon meetings. I was instantly hooked and began fundraising and helping out in any way I possibly could right away. I will never forget the wave of emotion that I felt the very first time I reached the Comma Club while standing next to my cousin Ashley, the one who I owe my love of Dance Marathon to.
We need you to be a hero for local kids!
Zippython is what it is because of the people who believe in it's cause. Your donation is tax-deductible and will make miracles happen for families who desperately need them. You can click the "Donate" button at the top of this page to make a safe and easy online donation.
