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2026 Jagathon presidental board is announced

2026 Jagathon presidental board is announced

By: Lexa Muehlbauer

Friday, May 09, 2025

Students take a selfie in Jagathon, The annual fundraiser to raise money for Riley Children's Hospital.

Jagathon, IU Indianapolis’ 10-hour dance marathon, is more than an annual celebration. It’s a year-round commitment to raising funds, building community and offering hope — all in support of Riley Hospital for Children and the Herman B. Wells Center for Pediatric Research. Since its start, Jagathon has raised more than $3.8 million For The Kids.

As planning for the year ahead begins, the organization has announced its 2026 presidential board:

President: MaKayla Waugh
Vice president of operations: Molly McCord
Vice president of external relations: Jennah Jones

Each board member brings unique motivation and perspective to their role. Together, they’re shaping the future of Jagathon while keeping its mission close to heart.

MaKayla Waugh

What do you hope students — especially new students — take away from Jagathon?

“Jagathon is more than just an event or an organization, it’s a movement that changes lives. I hope students see Jagathon as an opportunity to find purpose, build connections and contribute to something far bigger than themselves.”

What keeps you motivated in your fundraising efforts?

“Fundraising isn’t just about hitting numbers. It’s about providing hope for families, ensuring the best possible medical treatment and creating miracles.”

Molly McCord

What excites you most about your role this year?

“I am most excited for cultivating a community with my operations team and the rest of the Jagathon 2026 executive board. It takes incredible and selfless people to devote their entire year to our cause.”

What do you wish more people understood about what goes into Jagathon?

“People see what our hard work culminates to, but they don't see the countless hours it takes to create the recruitment strategies, the safety plans or the intense budgeting that goes into it. Everyone deserves their flowers.”

Jennah Jones

What are you most looking forward to this year?

“Our Riley kids and adults truly are the heart and soul of Jagathon. I am looking forward to fostering the relationships we have with them and building new ones this year.”

Who should get involved?

“Whether it is your first dance marathon experience or your 15th, Jagathon would love to have you. No matter your interests, experience, talents or background, you have a place in Jagathon.”

Get involved

Jagathon hosts events, fundraisers and campus outreach throughout the year to support children receiving care at Riley. To learn more, follow @iuindianapolisdm on Instagram or visit the Jagathon website.