10/27/2026
See how Media School students put classroom skills to work across IU’s campus.
Earlier this month, Indiana University Dance Marathon held its Day of Hope, a 24-hour fundraising effort for Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. Senior Tessa Hoffman, IUDM’s vice president of communications, and junior Carter Willey, promos chair, are two of several Media School students using their experience in communications, public relations, marketing, and promotion to support IU Dance Marathon.
For Tessa and Carter, that involvement is also a chance to take what they’ve learned at The Media School and apply it to real campaigns, real audiences, and a cause they care about.
This year’s Day of Hope raised a record $851,278.23 for Riley. IUDM’s year-long fundraising efforts culminate Nov. 6-8 with the 2026 dance marathon, but for The Media School students involved, the opportunity to build their skills and make a difference for families across Indiana lasts all year.
[Video description: Tessa Hoffman, an IU senior, speaks to the camera. The scene cuts to a student ringing a large bell inside a wood-paneled hall. Scene cuts to a close up of buttons that read I Ring The Bell For IUDM and then to Hoosier the Bison, IU’s mascot, walking into the room. A crowd of students smiles, claps, cheers, and raises their hands in celebration. The video then cuts to Carter Willey, an IU junior, speaking to the camera. A large screen reads Power Hour” $211,031.90. More students ringing the bell and cheering. The closing scene features The Media School’s logo.]
