Posted by: Chris Vannini on February 17, 2013

Penn State's "THON" is one of the largest student-run philanthropic efforts in the world.

It's a dance marathon than raises millions of dollars for pediatric cancer, and the 2013 event this weekend raised a program-record $12.3 million.

In the event, various student groups, clubs and others take turns dancing nonstop as donations come in. Penn State basketball coach Pat Chambers donated $14,200, $10 for every student who attended the home game against Iowa.

Members of the Penn State football team performed a bit at this year's event, which you can watch below, as well as Bill O'Brien's address to the crowd.

To donate to THON, visit Thon.org.

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Chris Vannini is the lead writer for CoachingSearch.com and has covered Michigan State sports for The State News, The Oakland Press and MLive.com. He writes a weekly column for the Detroit Free Press on behalf of SB Nation. Vannini lives in Big Ten country, so his foot speed is far from SEC caliber, but his pulse on coaches is hard to match. Be sure to follow @CoachingBuzz on twitter and send your feedback to chris@coachingsearch.com