Bullerdick Receives 2019 Miracle Network Dance Marathon Distinguished Leadership Award
Bullerdick, a native of Omaha, Nebraska, helped USD’s Dakotathon raise $208,732 for Sanford Children’s Hospital in Sioux Falls this year, doubling what was previously raised within the last five years.
“Without a doubt, I would not even be the person I am today if it weren’t for Dance Marathon, let alone the type of leader I’ve become,” said Bullerdick. “This role has challenged, pushed and rewarded me in more ways that I can count, and I can’t thank everyone who got me here enough.”
Award recipients will receive a plaque recognizing outstanding leadership and recognition on Dance Marathon Facebook and Instagram channels and on the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals website.
“I dance so that kids have the chance to just be kids,” Bullerdick said. “We’re able to provide lifechanging and lifesaving resources to the families we’ve grown so close to. Being able to see and hear first-hand how we help these kids, is reason in itself for people to donate.”
Dakotathon, USD’s Miracle Network Dance Marathon, is a student-run organization that raises funds and awareness throughout the year and culminates in a 6- to 48-hour dance marathon event where students reveal and celebrate the year’s fundraising total, participate in games and dancing and meet with patient families treated at Sanford Children’s Hospital.
The collective efforts of Miracle Network Dance Marathon events have raised nearly $250 million since 1991 for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a nonprofit organization that raises funds and awareness for 170 pediatric hospitals across North America. Each year, hundreds of thousands of student dancers participate in fundraising and awareness activities at approximately 400 colleges, universities, and K-12 schools across the U.S. and Canada, contributing to a movement that continues to grow in size and dollars earned year over year.
