Dionte Berry
Staff Writer
dberry11@murraystate.edu
Alpha Gamma Delta’s Rock-A-Thon is a traditional Murray State philanthropy event, but like many other traditions it has seen a break from the norm because of COVID-19.
The Rock-A-Thon is an annual event that started during the 1970s where Greek organizations face off in a lip sync dance competition to raise money for charity.
Junior social work major and vice president of philanthropy Kathryn Foster has helped adjust the Rock-A-Thon in order fit within COVID-19 precautions.
“With COVID-19 we have adapted our event this year to only our look-alike division, which consists of small groups reenacting scenes from popular movies and tv shows,” Foster said.
Proceeds from this year’s Rock-A-Thon will go to foundations that are fighting world hunger, like Meals on Wheels and Feeding America. Last year they were able to raise around $25,000.
“The money we raise will help organizations and communities not only locally, but nationwide as well,” Foster said.
Since summer, Foster’s sorority has been planning for Rock-A-Thon and despite the unusual format she is still excited for it.
In a normal year, the Rock-A-Thon features teams of up to 20 students from each organization who perform a lip sync and dance routine for an audience in Lovett Auditorium.
“Teams usually spend months in advance learning and practicing their routine with the help of members of Alpha Gamma Delta, who act as coaches,” Foster said. “This year the event is being held entirely virtual and with very small groups wearing masks to ensure that we are taking as many precautions as possible.”
Foster is happy to see her and her sorority’s work pay off and she thinks that the virtual format will be a success.
The Rock-A-Thon will be held on Friday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. and tickets will be available on alphagammadelta.crowdchange.co for $5.
“There are so many individuals who have worked hard to make this event possible and I think everyone will be happy to see it all pay off,” Foster said.