IUDM 2025 Marathon Recap

By: Hannah Bukowski

From November 7 to 9 at the IU Tennis Center, hundreds of students from Indiana University hosted the 35th annual IU Dance Marathon (IUDM) Over the course of 36 hours, thousands will unite with a common goal: raising funds and awareness for Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis and celebrating the courage of young patients and families whose lives are touched by the hospital's care.

IUDM is about far more than dancing. It’s a movement born out of hope, endurance, and community. Since its founding in 1991, IUDM has raised over $56 million for Riley Hospital, funding both pediatric research and essential patient care. What's special about this event is that it's totally run by students. Every part of the marathon, from fundraising campaigns to logistics and overall morale, is organized by IU students, who dedicate several months to prepare for the success of the weekend. The 2025 theme, “Why Not Now?”, showcases urgency and empowerment and is a call to action reminding participants that change happens the minute you choose to make a difference.

Over the course of 36 hours, participants feel joy, exhaustion, and deep connection.

They learn the annual line dance, play games, shave heads, share stories, and listen to families from Riley Hospital tell their powerful stories of resilience. It is a consistent reminder of why the marathon exists: to bring hope and healing to children with serious diseases. This energy builds throughout the weekend until Sunday morning, when the big fundraising total is revealed, capping off a weekend of hard work and heartfelt dedication. The total raised this year was $3,135,391.23, besting last year's total by $77K. This goes to show what inspiring things this group of people can do throughout one year.  

But the impact of IUDM extends far beyond the numbers on a screen. It inspires leadership, teamwork, and empathy in students while bridging the campus and the local community. It shows that even the smallest gestures such as a donation, a dance, or a conversation can have ripples creating very real, life-changing results. Whether as a dancer, committee member, donor, or supporter, everyone strives toward one common goal: to give every child, no matter their circumstances, the care they so rightfully deserve. As Indiana University celebrates 35 years of IUDM, this event is a continued testament to what it means to come together for something much bigger than oneself. It's a tradition of compassion and commitment that grows stronger each year, driven by the belief that one school, one weekend, and one community can create miracles-one child at a time. So, Why Not Now?