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By: Ayaan Abbasi
In 1991, the very first IU Dance Marathon took place, creating an organization and experience that transforms the lives of Riley families and IU students alike. Michael Quane was a part of the very first executive council that helped to create that legacy.
Michael began his time in IUDM as the Director of Facilities (what is now called Logistics). His role involved setting up and organizing with Indiana University to coordinate the stage, sound, lighting, and other operational aspects of the event.
In that first year, he spent time networking with various individuals, gaining significant project management skills that he still uses today. With the executive council, they worked day and night to put on an event in honor of Ryan White and to raise money for Riley Hospital for Children.
After the first event, Michael recalls being grateful for the awareness the event created and in what they were able to put on in a short amount of time. However, during the second year, they understood that they were creating a template for other schools to do so and the strong impact that they could have on Riley Hospital for Children patients.
Michael and the executive council from the very first marathon are still close today, traveling together and continuing to support Riley Hospital for Children. Additionally, IUDM plays a role in his career today. “What I took from IUDM in helping to create the first two marathons directly impacted what I do for a living,” Michael said.
Today, he is “at a loss for words” in regards to how IUDM has grown since its initial creation in 1991. With the initial executive council, a strong effort was made to balance creating an organization and an event at the same time, an effort that significantly paid off in the impact it has made on people nationwide.
Michael says that “it is touching to be reminded of why this whole thing happens…to be so passionate about raising money under the IU logo for Riley.”
