Celebrating our 2024 Class of Next Generation Philanthropists

Riley Children’s Foundation is proud to announce the 2024 Class of Next Generation Philanthropists. These high school juniors and seniors displayed exceptional leadership and character through their contributions to their school’s Riley Dance Marathon or Kids Caring & Sharing™ program.

This seventh annual Class includes students from across the state. They serve as shining representatives of the hundreds of high school students who fundraised for Riley Dance Marathon and Kids Caring & Sharing™ during the 2023-24 school year. They have been a part of established Riley fundraising programs and started new fundraising efforts. They are Riley kids and Riley siblings. They have spent hundreds of hours raising thousands of dollars—all for the children and families who depend on Riley Children’s Health.

Introducing the 2024 Class of Next Generation Philanthropists:

Teagen Bullock, Senior, Bloomington South High School (Bloomington, IN) – As President, Teagen discovered Dance Marathon to be a transformative shift in his personal development as he learned not only the importance of raising funds but creating meaningful connections. “I realized I didn’t have to bear the weight of challenges alone and that accepting help is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the strength of community,” he said.

Jack Butwin, Senior, Terre Haute North Vigo High School (Terre Haute, IN) – Jack took pride in being his school’s highest fundraiser last year, which contributed to the Dance Marathon raising double their goal. “My involvement in Dance Marathon has helped to evolve me into a more confident and focused individual, and with those skills I can only hope to support and serve Riley in a bigger and better way each and every day,” he said.

Addison Crosby, Senior, Westfield High School (Westfield, IN) – As Vice President of Fundraising, Addison worked with her peers to secure double the number of corporate sponsorships from the previous year. “Philanthropy is about setting our comfort, time, talents, and even finances aside to step into others’ lives and make a great impact,” she said.

Lindsey Dykes, Senior, Carmel High School (Carmel, IN) – Lindsey describes going to her first Dance Marathon in middle school as the best decision she’s ever made. Since then, she has found different ways to raise money, including selling her artwork and organizing a new event opening a thrift shop. “I will continue fundraising because you cannot put a price on a child’s life,” she said.

Zoey Hornback, Senior, Carmel High School (Carmel, IN) - As Dance Marathon Chair, Zoey led more than 600 student participants through the fundraising process. “Looking around during the total reveal to see faces of pride and joy made it all worth it,” she said.

Ella Lowery, Senior, Westfield High School (Westfield, IN) – As President, Ella focused on investing in future student leaders by expanding opportunities for her Dance Marathon’s intern program. “Dance Marathon is the perfect place to learn what service is and to help build a character that will better your life and the world,” she said.

Jordis Mason, Junior, White River Valley High School (Switz City, IN) – Jordis hosted her parents’ friends for a backyard golf fundraiser, resulting in a new group of committed Dance Marathon supporters. “I have learned that my voice can be used to make such a difference in other’s lives,” she said.

Raegan McMullan, Senior, Fishers High School (Fishers, IN) – As President this past year, Raegan found herself breaking out of her comfort zone and leading, which included organizing the school’s second annual Run4Riley. “Seeing Riley families attend the event and participate in our one-mile Wagon Walk made the entire experience worthwhile,” she said.

Katie Merryman, Senior, Carmel High School (Carmel, IN) – As Director of Stewardship, Katie led initiatives to handwrite thank you letters to event donors, which improved connections with recurring donors. “If costume changes from tinsel skirts, alien glasses, and ‘80s tracksuits during Dance Marathon have taught me anything, it’s this: fun experiences will attach noble causes to people,” she said.

Katy Morcos, Junior, University High School (Carmel, IN) - Katy helped usher in a trivia night fundraiser to add to her school’s annual calendar. “The trivia night exceeded all our expectations while raising awareness for our organization and the critical need to fund pediatric cancer research,” she said.

Emmerson Oskay, Senior, Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (Indianapolis, IN) – As a high school sophomore, Emmerson was one of four students who created the Riley Dance Marathon program at Brebeuf. “I viewed every fundraising event we held as a way to advocate and create awareness around Riley and the amazing health care resource it is for our community,” she said.

Kayla Reis, Senior, Westfield High School (Westfield, IN) – Kayla reached new possibilities for herself and her school as the Chair of Corporate Sponsorship. “I am now effective at communication, spearheading tasks among a group, and I can easily talk to anyone I meet, which I attribute all to Dance Marathon,” she said.

On behalf of all of us at Riley Children’s Foundation, congratulations to the 2024 class and thank you for all you’ve done for Riley kids and families!

Interested in learning more about this class of Next Generation Philanthropists? Check out the @RileyKidsDM Instagram this summer to see each recipient highlighted.