BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — More than 700 Western Kentucky University (WKU) students raised nearly $94,000 through Dance Big Red, the school's 10th annual dance marathon benefiting Norton Children's Hospital. 

The marathon happened March 9-10 at the school's Raymond B. Preston Health & Activities Center. More than 200 special guests, including sponsors and community members, attended for the Community/Dance Little Red Hour to support the student dancers, Norton Healthcare said.

“We are ecstatic from the overwhelming response from students, donors and sponsors,” said Hannah Adams, Dance Big Red co-chair. "With the support of everyone pulling together, we raised $93,851.99 for Norton Children’s Hospital, directly impacting pediatric heart care and pediatric cancer care for patients from across the state. The result of this event is a dream come true.”

Dance Big Red held several fundraising events over the past year, working with Warren County Public Schools' Dance Little Red and various Dance Mini Reds, Norton Healthcare said. WKU students also planned various outreach opportunities to donate and get involved and met with Norton Children's patients and families.

Dana Matukas, Norton Children's Hospital Western Kentucky communication project manager, said Dance Big Red has raised more than $500,000 for Norton Children's Hospital through Norton Children's Hospital Foundation since the inaugural event.

“The continued success of the event is a testament to the strength of leadership and compassion found at WKU,” Matukas said.

Norton Healthcare said Norton Children's Hospital had nearly 6,000 patient visits from the Bowling Green area this past year, and events such as Dance Big Red help further the hospital's mission of providing care to all children.

"Our hard work and dedication is making a direct impact to families in this region," said Grant Oller, Dance Big Red co-chair. “The WKU community and spirit showed out on Friday to support Norton Children’s Hospital. Our executive board is ready to start planning Dance Big Red 2025.”

More information about Dance Big Red, including a full list of sponsors, can be found on its website.