More than 100 students gathered for the second annual Hoover Hop in the Hoover Pavilion at Walsh University on Friday, Oct. 27, to raise money for the victims of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.
Naomi DelGuidice, senior Theology and Communications double major, along with her board, organized the harvest themed event, that included a dinner, seasonal drinks, candy apple bar, ice cream bar, s’mores station, photo booth and dancing.
"The Hoover Hop started last fall when a group of student leaders on campus saw Walsh’s need for a fun, unique, classy and classic dance at Walsh that could also raise money for a worthy cause," said DelGuidice. "With the help of First Lady Terie Jusseaume and Vice President Amy Malaska, the first Hoover Hop was created, and swing dancing was officially introduced to this campus."
Giving back to the greater community has always been at the heart of the dance.
"Each year the Hop’s proceeds go toward a nonprofit organization that is seeking to share the love of Christ with those in need in a practical manner," said DelGuidice. "Last year the proceeds went to the Sisters of Charity and their work in Haiti following a natural disaster, while last semester, the Birk Bop raised money for mothers with unexpected pregnancies. This Hop’s funds will be helping the people of Puerto Rico rebuild following the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria."
Rachel Bell, junior Theology and History double major, was excited to be a part of the dance after being approached by DelGuidice.
"Over 100 students attended this year’s Hoover Hop," said Bell. "I love the Hoover Hop because it brings students together from all walks of life and you get dance with and have fun with a variety of people while supporting a great cause."
Haley Talion, junior AYA Math Education major, was also excited to be involved with the dance this year.
"I got involved with the Hoover Hop last spring because of my good friend Naomi needed help with some of the prep so I volunteered to help her," said Talion. "What makes me so happy are all the donations we get from surrounding organizations. They will donate food or decorations, allowing us to create more of a profit for the deserving cause. To me, the Hoover Hop means bringing people to appreciate a new sense of fun, and doing it all in the name of Jesus."
The dance has reached out to students and the Walsh community to make it a success.
"The support from the Walsh community has been incredible," said DelGuidice. "Everyone has come together to volunteer their time and talents to make the dance a reality. Jackie Manser from events shares her expertise, Campus Police has been exceedingly helpful, Campus Ministry donated a candy apple bar and fully supported the effort, resident assistants promoted the event, Danny Fill, peacemaker and senior computer science major, donated his professional DJ skills to the dance, both Sodexo and Giant Eagle donated food for the event and an incredible board of students worked together to make it happen. This dance is a way that we students can give back to Walsh and our fellow students while serving the world at large. I have learned so much through each event and am fully convinced that God does grant the increase."