In an unprecedented move by Penn State and Four Diamonds authorities, THON was shifted to a virtual format this year due to rising public health concerns from the coronavirus pandemic.
THON dancers and attendees were no longer allowed inside the Bryce Jordan Center, and performers and dance captains had limited access to the main stage. Proceedings were broadcasted by 46 Live on THONâs website.
Despite THON 2021 being Dhanesh Ranaweeraâs senior THON, the four-year OPPerations Committee member said he was relatively unphased by the virtual shift.
âI think they did their best for what it was,â Ranaweera (senior-chemical engineering) said. âI know the captains worked very hard to establish a great THON weekend, and I think it went perfectly.â