Dash-A-Thon is the only student-led fundraiser that directly supports the cost of students' DSHA education. The 2026 goal of the overall student body is$90,000.
As of 2025, students raise money for Dash-A-Thon in houses (rather than by grade level). This allows students to come together across grade levels to support their school — while still participating in some friendly competition!
The History of Dash-A-Thon
Dash-A-Thon is the largest student-led fundraiser that culminates in a themed 7-mile walk/run to raise money for the school. Since its inception in 1983, it has raised over $2 million for DSHA.
Dash-A-Thon was founded in 1983 by the Student Council Executive Committee of Julie Rebek Wendelberger ’84; Debra Leack Braun ’84; Anne Kresse Pillion ’84; Pam Knoll Doherty ’84; and Katie Daily Pickart ’84. More than 40 years later, Dash-A-Thon continues as part of Father Jordan Spirit Week.
At the beginning of each school year, students are charged with raising money to support DSHA. After several weeks of fundraising, students come together during Father Jordan Spirit Week for Dash-A-Thon.
This walk begins with students dressing in theme and meeting in the gym. Senior leaders prepare underclasswomen for the walk (or run!) and get everyone excited with cheers and games.
After Dash-A-Thon, students get the remainder of the day off!
Students raise 100% of the funds for Dash-A-Thon. Starting in fall 2025, students work together in their houses to reach (and hopefully exceed) a certain dollar amount. This counts toward the overall Dash-A-Thon goal, which is typically $90,000.
Dash-A-Thon directly supports the mission of DSHA. These student-raised funds go toward scholarships, college-prep academics, dynamic Campus Ministry programming, school improvements, and more.
Much like a homecoming dance, Dash-A-Thon has a new theme each year. On the day of the Dash-A-Thon walk, students dress up by grade level as part of this theme.