For the Kids
Get to know Caroline Baum, Taylor Fleming, and Neya Kratzer, who will represent Penn State Altoona at THON Feb. 16–18.
We are less than two weeks out from THON 2024, which takes place Friday through Sunday, Feb. 16 through 18, at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College.
Penn State’s THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, in which thousands of volunteers are committed to enhancing the lives of children and families impacted by childhood cancer. THON is comprised of over 16,500 Penn State student volunteers who aim to provide emotional and financial support to Four Diamonds families, as well as to spread the mission of THON and bring awareness to childhood cancer. Since its start in 1973, THON has raised over $200 million dollars to support its sole beneficiary, Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.
Penn State Altoona is represented by three dancers this year: Caroline Baum, Taylor Fleming, and Neya Kratzer.
Here, we introduce each of them and share their answers to a few pre-THON questions.
Caroline Baum
Year: Senior
Major: Nursing
What are you most looking forward to during THON weekend?
I am looking forward to making lifelong memories and being part of a 46-hour dance party all for the kids.
Why did you choose to join Altoona Benefitting THON?
I came to college with a heart for THON’s mission and the dream of being a pediatric oncology nurse one day. I found out about ABT in my first year and have been a part of it since. Our THON family, the Kratzers, and the ABT members over the years have become family to me, and I am so grateful to be a part of something so special.
Donate to Caroline's THON campaign
Taylor Fleming
Year: Senior
Major: Nursing
What are you most looking forward to during THON weekend?
I’m looking forward to everyone’s energy, the concert, and the country hour.
Why did you choose to join Altoona Benefitting THON?
I joined ABT to find friends who have the same willingness as I do to put time into finding a cure for pediatric cancer. It did not take long for me to really enjoy what we do. This organization is something I will cherish while being a student here at Altoona and will miss after graduation.
Donate to Taylor's THON Campaign
Neya Kratzer
Year: Sophomore
Major: Nursing
What are you most looking forward to during THON weekend?
This year at THON, I am looking forward to standing for my brother, Collin. He was diagnosed with medulloblastoma when he was 16 months old, and he is the strongest person I know. Dancing in THON has been a dream of mine for years, and I’m excited to honor Collin and take this journey surrounded by my best friends and family. I am specifically looking forward to family hour because everyone in the building feels connected, and it allows children who have faced the battle of cancer to receive recognition and love.
Why did you choose to join Altoona Benefitting THON?
The reason I chose to join ABT is because of the personal connection that my family has with the organization. During Collin’s treatment, my family was paired with ABT in 2011, and it has continued to be a source of emotional support and an extension of my family throughout the years. When I came to Penn State Altoona as a freshman, ABT was the first group I wanted to become a part of, and members immediately welcomed me and gave me true friendships. Since becoming a captain last year and an executive this year, ABT has given me an irreplaceable sense of belonging and purpose. Joining this organization has been a full-circle experience, and I would encourage others to join to help improve the lives of children and their families during their toughest times.
