Dance Marathon raises nearly $200,000

Northwestern University Dance Marathon (NUDM) wrapped up its 51st year Saturday morning after nearly 600 students danced for 15 consecutive hours at Welsh-Ryan Arena. The marathon capped a year-long fundraising effort that raised $191,827 for Chicago HOPES for Kids, the only non-profit organization in the Chicago area providing academic support to students experiencing homelessness.

Following a 28-year tradition, a portion of the funds will also benefit the Evanston Community Foundation, strengthening NUDM's impact on the local community.

NUDM remains one of the largest independent student-run philanthropies nationwide, having raised more than $23 million since it began in 1975.

A beneficiary for the 52nd annual NUDM will be announced later this academic year.