College News

Bonds, Sweat, and Tears at the 31st Annual Teddi Dance for Love

02/11/2013

As Winter Storm Nemo came barreling into the region, the Teddi Committee went barreling into the Student Life Center to finish the preparations for the annual Teddi Dance for Love. And as the winds blew and the snow blanketed the campus, over 400 students were just getting things warmed up at the event.

With the strategically timed theme hours, there was something for everyone to enjoy as they danced the night away all in the name of love. And in the end, the event, which is the longest-standing student tradition at the College, raised a total of $50,931.56 for Camp Good Days and Special Times. This year’s event was led by Danielle Allington, chair, and Jennifer Keeler, co-chair, along with a full committee.

Students, alumni, faculty, staff, and campers danced to the oldies, Top 40, and everything in between. They were also treated to live performances from Big Tuna and the Fishermen, Fisher’s faculty band, and local band, 441. Jazzercise, Zumba, and a kid’s carnival also helped fill the 24 hours, along with an hour of camp songs hosted by the campers themselves.

And once again this year, the event included a Locks of Love haircutting and reveal session. In total, 1,208 inches of hair was donated to the organization.

When the dance comes to a close every year, the chair recognizes the individual for whom the event is dedicated. This year, the honoree was Kristina Feane, a former Camp Good Days camper and Fisher student, who lost her battle with cancer in May 2012. She was 19 years old. After a brief video presentation, Allington welcomed the Feane family to the stage. Sharon Feane, Kristina’s mother, made brief remarks about her daughter. Dr. Donald Bain also presented Kristina’s mother with a commemoration letter. The Feane family then led dance participants outside to hold a silent balloon launch before coming back for the final hour.

During the closing ceremony, students were joined by Dr. Bain and Gary Mervis, the founder of Camp Good Days and Special Times, and father of the event’s namesake, Teddi Mervis. WBEE’s Steve Hausmann, the 2013 Honorary Chair, also joined in the closing ceremony.

Mervis said the Teddi Dance is his favorite event every year, and commended the students for keeping his daughter’s memory alive in the community through the event.

"For me, as Teddi's dad, the gift you have given is priceless," he said.