Photo: Javier Zayas Photography / Moment / Getty Images
The 49th annual South High Marathon Dance (SHMD) at South Glens Falls High School concluded successfully on Saturday (March 7), raising $735,231.64 for local families and charities. The event, which took place from March 6–7, involved students dancing for 28 hours straight to raise funds. Since its inception in 1978, SHMD has raised over $10 million.
This year's proceeds will benefit 36 recipients, including individual community members and local organizations. The funds were raised through months of preparation, dedicated fundraising, and events like raffles and 50/50 draws during the dance. Local businesses also contributed significantly to the total amount raised. South Glens Falls High School Principal Nicky Bogert praised the community's efforts, saying, "Every year, the South High Marathon Dance brings our community together and shines a light on the dedication, determination, and hard work of our students."
Top fundraisers included Aiden Osborn, Aiden Faulkner, and Lucy Pliscofsky. The Evelyn and Richard Stewart Award was given to Anthony Cooper, while the Spirit Award winners were Genevieve Casey, Maegan Sylofski, Reese McGough, Kiernan Weaver, and Claire Lebrecht. Abigael Rourke received the Volunteer Heart Award.
Superintendent of Schools Kristine Orr highlighted the event's significance, stating, "SHMD is more than a tradition; it’s a celebration of the dedication and compassion that define our students, staff, and volunteers." The dance was live-streamed at shmdlive.org.
The funds raised will support families such as Isaac Amell, Paul Cianfrocco, and Chris Davies Jr., as well as organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Northeastern New York.
Student chair member Anthony Cooper expressed gratitude, saying, "The entire South Glens Falls community comes together to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars to support the selected recipients." The event's success underscores the community's spirit and generosity, with plans already underway for future dances.