Our Mission:

The Hope Gala is committed to conquering childhood cancer by raising awareness, providing financial assistance, and supporting the fundraising efforts of Penn State Dance Marathon (THON), which benefits Four Diamonds, through our annual gala and year-round fundraising.

About Us:

The Hope Gala is an annual gala and year-round fundraising organization established to support the fundraising efforts of Penn State Dance Marathon (THON). Since 2008, The Hope Gala has raised over $2.1 million towards the mission of conquering childhood cancer. Four Diamonds is the sole beneficiary of THON's fundraising activities and THON is the largest contributor to Four Diamonds. All proceeds benefit childhood cancer patients and their families in need of financial aid, medical assistance, and emotional support at the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital. The Hope Gala was founded by the New York City Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association with support from the Northern New Jersey Chapter.


Hope Gala Executive Committee

Danielle Barrasse

Incoming Executive Director

Maggie Kreienberg

Incoming Executive Director

Ema Gaubaite Gheraldi

Outgoing Executive Director

Sara Leary Swanson

Outgoing Executive Director

Kyle Robb

Partnerships Director

Morgan La Shier

Graphic Design Director

Kaylee Porco

Public Relations Coordinator

Sarah Wyatt

Communications Coordinator

Ava Silverman

Communications Coordinator

Adrien Aloi

Special Events Director

Rachel Rawdin

Special Events Coordinator

Kristi Chan

Special Events Coordinator

Tess Kearns

Auction Director

Marie Milanovich

Auction Coordinator

Dr. Nicole Andreoli

Family Relations Director

Greg Ryan

Production Director

Samantha Shoffner

Gala Volunteer Coordinator

Mike McHugh

Alumni Relations Director

Joe Tressito

Sponsorship Coordinator

Claudia Mendoza

Gala Volunteer Coordinator

Brian Stickler

Sponsorship Coordinator