Up 'till Dawn to host "Thriller Night" charity event on Oct. 29

By Melissa Sochaki, student writer

Oakland University's Up ‘til Dawn student organization is joining forces with the Department of Campus Recreation to host a costumed night of dancing, games and charity with “Thriller Night,” from 5:30 - 11:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 29, at the Athletics and Recreation Center.

The event offers a number of activities geared to generate support for the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. A fun run begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Upper Fields and the rest of the festivities will begin at 6 p.m. at the Recreation Center. Participants will also learn to dance to the 'Thriller' song and be part of a special music video filming.

Students will also prepare letters to send to friends and family, asking for support in the fight against childhood cancer by making a donation to St. Jude. In the past five years of Up ‘til Dawn's service, the group has helped raise over $79,000.

This year looks to be another successful fundraiser with plenty of activities for everyone.

“Thriller Night will unite faculty, staff, and students in the fight against pediatric cancers and other catastrophic childhood diseases,” said Nicole Kudialis, the executive director for Up ‘til Dawn. “This event will be full of nonstop games and activities where students celebrate their fundraising efforts.”

Any participant who comes prepared to send 50 letters will be entered into a drawing for an Ipod touch. Along with that, there also be prizes, Fear Factor games, a costume contest, laser tag, a velcro wall, and a Tarot Card reader.

St. Jude's mission is to find cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. It is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance. No child is ever denied treatment because of the family’s inability to pay.

To join in the fight against cancer contact Kudialis at nmkudial@oakland.edu or check us out on Facebook at Up Til' Dawn- Oakland University.