Ryan and Ashley Week 2026 Recap

By: Conor Banks

Last week, Indiana University Dance Marathon held its annual Ryan and Ashley Week, honoring the legacies of Ryan White and Ashley Louise Crouse. The two figures serve as lasting reminders of the why behind IUDM, inspiring this year’s theme –– “Empowered Together to Honor the Angles Among Us.”

Ryan, an Indiana native, contracted HIV/AIDS at 13-years-old. Following his diagnosis, Ryan faced widespread challenges. Throughout the 1980’s, he battled the stigma surrounding his condition, becoming a national face of the AIDS crisis. Through his advocacy, Ryan helped humanize the disease and challenged public perception. Ryan passed away on April 8, 1990. His close friend, Jill Stewart, later founded IUDM in his honor.

Ashley served as the Vice President of Communications within IUDM in 2005. In this role, she displayed constant dedication and passion toward the organization, as well as the kids and families at Riley Hospital for Children. On April 11, 2005, Ashley passed away in a car accident shortly after an Executive Council meeting.

Despite their passing, Ryan and Ashley’s legacies remain crucial to IUDM. The initials “RW” and “ALC” appear on event items and apparel, honoring two individuals whose stories continue to shape the organization’s mission.

This year’s Ryan and Ashley Week began with a screening of The Ryan White Story. The Biographical movie offered IUDM members a closer look at the challenges faced by Ryan White during his battle with HIV/AIDS.

During Wednesday’s committee meetings, members wrote their “Dear Me” letters, which will be revisited at the marathon in November. Members also read stories and poems to further reflect upon Ryan and Ashley’s lasting impact.

IUDM held its annual Angels Among Us Walk on Friday to honor Ryan and Ashley. The walk followed Ashley’s typical route around campus, beginning at Kappa Kappa Gamma, where she lived during her time at IU.

The week concluded in a tree planting service event Saturday morning. This was the first time Ryan and Ashley week had a volunteer event, and it gave IUDM members the opportunity to take the time to give back!

Ryan and Ashley Week continues to reinforce the cause-connection behind IUDM, while honoring two lives that remain foundational to its purpose.