The 47th annual South High Marathon Dance, held at the South Glens Falls High School from March 1 to 2, has once again raised significant money for local families and charities.
The total amount, $746,887.25, was announced during the marathon’s closing ceremony on Saturday, March 2.
Throughout the 47-year history of the dance, the students and community have raised more than $10 million.
Money raised from this year’s event follows months of work, fundraising, and the celebrated dance. The funds will benefit 34 recipients—individuals and organizations from South Glens Falls and neighboring areas.
“Each year, the South High Marathon Dance brings together our community and showcases the hard work and dedication of students, staff, and the South High Marathon Dance volunteers. This year brought the addition of having the public join us once again, making for an incredible experience,” Superintendent of Schools Kristine Orr said. “To say I am overjoyed at how this year went is an understatement. I am so pleased at what our amazing Bulldog community achieved this year. Go Bulldogs!”
For the first time since 2019, the dance was able to welcome the community into the building to take part in the fun and camaraderie of the SHMD experience.
The top student fundraisers this year raised a combined total of $36,752.67. Our top fundraisers for the year were:
- Natalie Mallette - $13,506.32
- Logan Mahoney - $11,761.95
- Natalee Tucker - $11,453.80
“Through the tireless efforts of our students, the South High Marathon Dance not only raised much-needed funds but also spread hope and positivity to those in need,” said Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Tim Dawkins. “These students are a shining example of how we can all make a difference in the lives of others. I am incredibly proud of what our students have accomplished.”
The 2024 Dick Stewart Award was given to Logan Mahoney. Our 2024 Spirit Award Winners are:
- Freshman: Gabby Potter
- Sophomore: Parker Simonds
- Junior: Jillian Wright
- Seniors: Nate Saunders and Ava Reynolds
In addition to the student fundraisers, scores of local businesses held fundraisers for the community, which added thousands to the total amount raised. Our middle and elementary students also raised significant funds.
Throughout all of the fun that is had, our dancers never forget the reason they are there.
This year’s recipients are:
THE FAMILIES OF:
- Olivia Allen
- Molly Clothier
- Susan Dobert
- Allison Dwyer
- Emily Elder
- Ann/Richard Gordon
- Donna Harper
- Cynthia Linendoll
- Rian McCann
- Rochelle Monroe
- Christopher O’Brien
- Rebecca Otruba
- Rohan Michael Robichaud
- Alyssa Rowell
- Brad Simon
- Stephen Tucker
- Georgianna Vance
- The Walsh Family
- Adam Wells Jr.
- John Wilcox
- Marshall Zeh
COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS:
- Alzheimer’s Association of NENY
- Cancer Center Community Crusaders
- CAPTAIN Community Human Services
- Hometown Thanksgiving
- Jake’s Help from Heaven
- Kelly’s Angels, Inc.
- Moreau Community Center
- O’Brien’s Angels/Food for Thought
- Operation At Ease
- Rebuilding Together Saratoga County
- Saratoga Center for the Family
- St. Peter’s ALS Regional Center
- The Ben Osborn Memorial Fund, Inc.
The dance itself, which was again live-streamed live shmdlive.org, began in 1978. The event has progressed from a small dance in the high school gym to a major event that brings the entire community together.