Ryan and Ashley Week 2025

By: Hannah Bukowski

“Legacies we carry always, in all ways.” This phrase summarizes how IU Dance Marathon honors the legacies of Ryan White and Ashley Louise Crouse. These names are an inspiration to IUDM and their initials can be found on all of the organization’s merchandise. 

Ryan White contracted HIV and AIDS in the 1980s and was faced by both the town he resided in and nationwide media due to his condition. He became a self-advocate for himself and for all those who were faced with the disease, removing stigma and maximizing research for both diseases. Sadly, he passed away in 1990, and IUDM was initiated in his honor by his friend, Jill Stewart, the following year.

Ashley Louise Crouse was a member of the IUDM Executive Council in 2005. She died in a car accident shortly after meeting with her fellow Executive Council members. She is remembered as a person who always worked to make the organization better, and her kindness inspired all of IUDM to continue her legacy; giving everything they had to the organization. 

Every year, the IUDM community comes together to honor the lives and legacies of Ryan White and Ashley Louise Crouse, two extraordinary individuals whose stories continue to shape the heart and mission of IUDM. Their unwavering courage and compassion serve as a constant reminder of why we dance, inspiring thousands to unite in the fight for a brighter future for all children.

The week kicked off with the Ryan White movie on Monday where people were able to hear Ryan’s story and the tribulations he faced. Tuesday was an educational day where everyone was able to learn more about the importance of Ryan and Ashley week.

On Wednesday, committee members got to write their Dear Me letters. Notes that they will open at the marathon in November. This allows members to set goals for the rest of the year and feel more connected to the IUDM community. They were also able to hear stories about Ryan and Ashley to learn more about them and their impact on the organization.

The week ended with the Angels Among Us Walk, held to honor Ryan and Ashley as well as all pediatric patients. The walk started at Kappa Kappa Gamma, where Ashley lived during her time at IU. Members walked through campus, learning about HIV, AIDS, Ashley’s legacy, and other stories to honor all pediatric patients.

Ryan White and Ashley Louis Crouse continue to live through every member of IUDM and their legacy will be carried with them for years to come. “Live like Ryan, love like Ashley.”