Kate Colgan: Leading The World's Largest Student-Run Philanthropy

This week Andrew talks with Penn State student Kate Colgan. Kate is the Executive Director for THON, the world’s largest student-run philanthropy. Every year, more than 16,500 student volunteers at Penn State team up and work year-round to organize events and programs that bring hope and support to families battling childhood cancer. The year-long effort culminates every February with a 46-hour dance marathon on Penn State’s campus. This year THON raised more than $13.7 million setting a new record. Andrew and Kate caught up a few days after this year’s THON for a behind the scenes look at Kate's experience leading the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. Kate’s wisdom is well beyond her years and she shares timeless lessons about leadership, teamwork, and what’s possible when people come together to help others. Show highlights:3:14 - Kate reflects on leading THON3:20 - Mission of THON and Four Diamonds4:45 - Planning and fundraising5:25- Raising $13.7 million6:50 - Leading a committee of 16,500 volunteers7:55 - Leadership lessons from leading a non-profit9:55 - Collaborating with others on a large-scale event11:00 - Communication16:00 - What makes THON so successful17:32 - Adapting to changes18:53 - Role of volunteers20:42 - Finding new creative ways to do things21:50 - Behind the scenes at THON weekend23:01 - Managing unexpected events28:05 - Enjoying the momentBe sure to subscribe & leave a review for the show in your favorite podcast app.Follow Andrew on Twitter: @andrewhmoses and IG: @AndrewMoses123Please tell your friends about Everybody Pulls The Tarp on social media and be sure to tag Andrew in your posts.Sign up for e-mails to keep up with the podcast at everybodypullsthetarp.com/newsletter!