History of the Liberty Ball

The Liberty Ball is an annual black tie optional event hosted by the Philadelphia Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association (Chapter). Created in 2005 to continue fundraising support efforts to the Penn State Dance Marathon “THON,” the Liberty Ball contributes to the mission of conquering childhood cancer.

The Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON) is a year round fundraising event benefiting The Four Diamonds Fund, conquering childhood cancer, at the Penn State Children's Hospital in Hershey, PA. The year culminates in a no-sitting, no-sleeping, 46-hour dance marathon held every February. With over 700 students and thousands of supporters THON has raised over $46 million for the cause.

Due to their involvement as students at Penn State, the Chapter Board of Directors desired to continue their support of THON and the fight against pediatric cancer as alum, doing more than just sending their individual donation checks each year. In 2004, the idea of hosting an annual gala fundraiser was brought to them by then Chapter Treasurer, Sean Sommer and his fiancé, now wife Maria Sommer. Immediately approved by the Board, planning for the first Liberty Ball began.

The title “The Liberty Ball” was inspired by an icon of the Philadelphia community: the Liberty Bell. Our theme, “A Knight for the Kids,” was born from reflection of Chris Millard’s, remarkable story of Sir Millard’s quest for the four diamonds: courage, wisdom, honesty, and strength. The four diamonds represented the four elements necessary to battle cancer. It was this story that inspired the foundation of The Four Diamonds Fund. (Read more about Chris’ story by clicking here)

The Liberty Ball has been held at historic and magical venues in Philadelphia including the Philadelphia Union League, the Warrick Hotel, the Downtown Club and the Franklin. Raising over $40,000, the Chapter has succeeded in accomplishing its mission of uniting and maintaining a network of Penn State Alumni while giving back to the community and promoting Penn State in the Philadelphia area.  

For more information about the Chapter’s mission and other community outreach endeavors, please visit the Philadelphia Chapter website at http://www.psuphila.org.