Fordham Dance Marathon (FDM) has been part of Fordham University tradition for twelve years now, working closely with the B+ Foundation to raise funds and awareness for families battling cancer.
“While many assume Fordham Dance Marathon is a dance group, we are actually a fundraising organization with a mission to raise one million dollars for pediatric cancer,” said Photo and Video Chair Ava Ami, FCRH ’27.
Co-Executive Director Anaya Ger, FCRH ’25, emphasized that, “Beyond spreading awareness and fundraising, FDM is all about spreading positivity.”
Ger highlighted the story behind the B+ Foundation, which was founded by the father of Andrew McDonough, a young boy who battled cancer. His mission is rooted in providing a support system for families facing similar struggles while maintaining a hopeful outlook. Additionally, Ger elaborated on the numerous ways FDM engages the community in its cause. One of these initiatives includes FDM trivia, an interactive and educational activity designed to inform community members about the organization’s mission and the realities of childhood cancer.
This year, FDM’s board members have set their sights on a major milestone, finally reaching their long-standing goal of raising $1 million. So far this academic year, they have raised $40,000, and the auction played a significant role in increasing that total.
The 2025 FDM auction was a highly collaborative event, featuring over seventy-eight prizes donated by local Bronx businesses, international companies and even a unique art piece by local graffiti artist 7SoulsDeep, who not only contributed his work, but made a special appearance.
Reflecting on the significance of this year’s auction, Ger and Auction Director, Mikyla Fidel, FCRH ’25, shared, “This FDM auction is especially exciting since it is our last one! We truly believe that reaching our remaining goal of $30,000 is achievable — this might just be the year we complete that mission!”
The success of this year’s auction was a testament to the collective efforts of the Fordham community. According to Ger, several campus organizations, including the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and Fordham University’s Philippine American Club (FUPAC), generously contributed items and donations in honor of the auction.
Students from all grade levels attended this year’s FDM auction, eager to support the cause and win exciting prizes.
Fawwaz Omer, FCRH ’25, expressed his support for both the mission of FDM and the dedication of his friends on the board. “I attended to show my support for non-profit organizations as well as in honor of the hard work of my friends on the FDM board. I’m especially excited for the auction because I really want to win Senior Ball tickets,” he said.
Natasha Lamouria, FCRH ’26, said, “FDM has a great mission, and I’m happy to be able to support it. I’m looking forward to the silent auction — it’s so riveting! I myself hope to win the Ram Van tickets; it’s definitely the best deal, and you get such a long-lasting benefit from them.”
Digital Communications Director of FDM, Jerry Zhao, GSB ’26, spoke to the importance of getting involved. “FDM has such an inspiring mission, and it’s super exciting to contribute to charity,” he said.
A highlight of the event was the continuation of FDM’s cherished tradition — the Miracle Minute. During this moment, attendees were encouraged to scan a QR code and donate as much as possible in sixty seconds, directly aiding a selected family in need. The funds raised at the event for families cover medical bills and daily expenses, alleviating a myriad of financial burdens that come with a pediatric cancer diagnosis.
This year’s auction was particularly thrilling, as it featured highly sought-out prizes such as the first housing slot and a stay at the Peninsula Hotel.
The 2025 FDM auction raised $10,000, contributing to the organization’s mission of providing support, relief and hope to struggling families.
