The Community + Alumni Engagement Committee connects SAUDM with the greater Quad Cities community and our alumni network. Members are assigned as mentors to local high schools hosting Mini Dance Marathons, providing guidance, attending meetings, and supporting their events. You’ll help ensure each Mini DM reflects the mission of Dance Marathon.

In addition, members help maintain strong relationships with SAUDM alumni by organizing alumni events, creating monthly newsletters, and managing alumni-focused communications and social media updates.

The Big Event Operations Committee oversees all logistics and planning for the 13.1-hour Big Event. This includes securing entertainment and catering, managing decorations, coordinating space setup, and ensuring the day runs smoothly from start to finish. Members help create an unforgettable experience for our Miracle Families, dancers, and supporters.

Expectations include attending weekly meetings, developing creative ideas, and working closely with vendors, sponsors, and other committees to execute a meaningful and efficient Big Event.

The Family Relations Committee works directly with families and children treated at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children’s Hospital, our local Children’s Miracle Network hospital. Members help coordinate family events, support families as needed, and build meaningful connections with the kids and their loved ones.

You’ll attend weekly committee meetings and play a key role during the Big Event—guiding an assigned family, assisting with Family Room decorations, and helping with setup and cleanup. This committee is ideal for those passionate about creating personal, lasting relationships with the families we support and understanding the heart behind Dance Marathon.

The Finance Committee plays a crucial role in Dance Marathon by tracking, organizing, and managing all funds raised throughout the year to support the children at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Using DonorDrive, our donation platform, we ensure every contribution is accurately recorded and handled with the utmost care.

Confidentiality is essential, as the total amount raised remains a secret until the Big Reveal at the Big Event. Our committee helps plan and participate in this exciting moment, celebrating the incredible impact our university community has made for these kids.

The Fundraising Committee leads all SAU Dance Marathon fundraising efforts through events such as canning, restaurant nights, and other on- and off-campus initiatives. Members help plan, promote, and support these events, while also guiding other participants on effective fundraising strategies.

Committee members are expected to attend weekly meetings and assist with event preparation and execution. They also participate in key moments like the Big Reveal during push days and the Big Event, celebrating the collective impact of their efforts.

The Morale Committee is the heart and energy of SAU Dance Marathon. As the “hype crew,” Morale members bring spirit, positivity, and motivation to every event. You’ll lead chants, create the morale dance, energize dancers, and create a fun, inclusive environment throughout the year—especially during Big Event, where you’ll keep the energy high from start to finish.

Members are expected to be enthusiastic, confident, positive, and passionate about our mission. You’ll represent Dance Marathon throughout day to day life, promote involvement, and inspire others through your energy and leadership.

The Public Relations & Marketing Committee manages all internal and external communications for SAU Dance Marathon. Responsibilities include overseeing social media platforms, designing apparel and promotional materials, taking event photos, producing videos, updating the SAUDM website, and coordinating with local media.

Members collaborate with other committees and families on a wide range of creative projects. This is a great opportunity for students interested in marketing, graphic design, communications, or social media. No prior experience is required—just creativity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn and contribute.

The Recruitment & Dancer Relations Committee focuses on bringing new dancers into Dance Marathon and ensuring they feel connected, informed, and supported throughout their journey. Members promote Dance Marathon across campus, help with onboarding, and serve as liaisons between the organization and its participants.

You’ll assist dancers with registration, fundraising strategies, and event engagement while building a strong, inclusive community. Ideal members are approachable, organized, and passionate about helping others feel at home in SAUDM.

The Special Events Committee plans and coordinates major events throughout the year leading up to the Big Event, including fall and spring Push Days and Kids Can’t Wait to Skate. Members are responsible for event logistics, creative planning, and ensuring each event aligns with SAU Dance Marathon’s mission. This committee offers a fun and impactful way to engage students and families while raising awareness and support for our cause.

Committee members are expected to attend weekly meetings, assist in event setup and execution, and communicate with campus partners, businesses, and miracle families.

As a member of the Sponsorship Committee, you will build and maintain professional relationships with current and potential SAU Dance Marathon sponsors. Responsibilities include outreach, communication, and ensuring sponsor stewardship. Strong communication skills, professionalism, and a passion for Dance Marathon are essential.

This role requires flexibility to meet with sponsors during business hours, attendance at weekly committee meetings, and participation in scheduled All-Committee meetings. Members are expected to uphold the mission and values of Dance Marathon through accountable and ethical leadership.