The money raised from admission goes toward the foundation, where the money will help grant the wish of a child with a life-threatening medical condition.
Each fraternity and sorority performs one dance to a mix of songs or to one song, Chi Omega Chapter president, Krystyn Abbate, said.
“The winning fraternity and winning sorority each get money donated toward their philanthropy and, of course, bragging rights,” Abbate said.
Most fraternities and sororities start practicing for the event after winter break.
“Chi Omega practices twice a week for two hours,” she said.
The fraternities and sororities can perform any appropriate style of dance they want. After the performances, the judges decide and announce the winning sorority and fraternity.
Abbate said the judges are chosen by the March Madness Chairwoman, Emily Rhode. Each fraternity and sorority chooses a year from the new millennium and dances to music from that year, Abbate said. Thewinners of the last March Madness got the first pick on the year of their choice.
Abbate said she is very happy with the chosen theme.
“We have never done anything like it and I think that this year’s March Madness event will be one of the best ones yet,” she said.
Abbate said her favorite part of the event is when the ‘Make-A-Wish’ child comes on stage.
“You hear about fraternities and sororities raising money for philanthropy all the time, but it’s such an awesome feeling to get to see exactly whom your fundraising is helping,” she said.
“The smile and excitement on that child’s face as the entire auditorium chants their name just goes to show that all of our hard work truly does pay off.”
She said she would encourage all students, whether or not they are affiliated with Greek life, to come to the event.
“You can go to cheer on your classmates and friends, contribute to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or go just for a good time,” Abbate said.
For the past few years, March Madness has consistently raised over $30,000, and the event raises enough money to grant six wishes annually.
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