UGA® Miracle at the University of Georgia Receives 2024 Ryan White Award for Overcoming Adversity

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® recognized top-performing Miracle Network Dance Marathon programs at the Ignite Peer-to-Peer Leadership Conference, held in Kansas City, MO, from July 18-21.

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (July 25, 2024) – UGA Miracle at the University of Georgia has been honored with the 2024 Ryan White Award for Overcoming Adversity. This prestigious award, presented annually, is named after the legendary Ryan White and recognizes a Miracle Network Dance Marathon program that best exemplifies Ryan White’s spirit and perseverance in the face of significant obstacles.

Ryan White’s legacy of overcoming adversity and making a positive impact continues to inspire, and the Ryan White Award is a testament to his enduring influence. This year, UGA Miracle has exemplified these qualities in an extraordinary way.

After months of meticulous planning, no one could have predicted that UGA Miracle might have to cancel their Dance Marathon event. This became a possibility when the community was struck by the tragic deaths of two students just days before the event. The entire campus and Greek Life communities were deeply affected, leading to the cancellation of classes and campus events the day before their planned fundraising event. UGA Miracle faced a crucial decision: to cancel or proceed as planned.

After thoughtful deliberation and considering the well-being of the community, UGA Miracle chose to move forward with the event. The decision aimed to provide a positive space for all students during this difficult time. Several adjustments were made to ensure the event was welcoming and supportive for attendees. Students could register for the event free of charge, ensuring an inclusive experience. Additionally, a “relaxation room,” initially a fundraising incentive, became a quiet haven for students throughout the weekend. Internal teams were supported and allowed to contribute at their own pace, relying on others until they felt ready.

Despite the challenging circumstances, the Dance Marathon event became a beacon of hope and unity. Students seeking community found much more, as UGA Miracle raised over $195,000 during the event, surpassing their previous year’s total. This achievement was made possible by year-long preparation and fundraising education for their members. The environment and community spirit at the main event were palpable, with members pouring their hearts out in the face of adversity.

Representatives from UGA Miracle at the University of Georgia accepted an award on stage during the Ignite Peer-to-Peer Leadership Conference. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals President and CEO, Aimee J. Daily, Ph.D., said: “On behalf of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to UGA Miracle at the University of Georgia for receiving the 2024 Ryan White Award for Overcoming Adversity. This incredible achievement is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and community spirit of the entire UGA Miracle team. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, they turned their Dance Marathon event into a powerful source of unity and hope, while raising substantial funds to change kids’ health. Their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact truly embodies the spirit of Ryan White. We are proud to recognize their remarkable efforts and celebrate their inspiring success.”

Previous recipients of the award include Drexel University and The Ohio State University Dance Marathon.

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About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals:
Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals was founded more than 40 years ago with the vision to Change Kids’ Health, Change the Future. We’ve raised over $9 billion for 170 children’s hospitals by empowering and engaging with local communities and businesses – and we’re not done yet. All donations benefit local member hospitals to fund what’s needed most, like critical life-saving treatments and healthcare services, innovative research, vital pediatric medical equipment, child life services that put kids’ and families’ minds at ease during difficult hospital stays, and financial assistance for families who could not otherwise afford these health services.

Together, we can change kids’ health. Together, we can change the future. To learn about Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and your local member children’s hospital, visit cmnhospitals.org.