By Annalisa Purser

ASUU’s annual “Rock the U” dance marathon takes place in the Huntsman Center from 7 p.m. March 27 to 8 a.m. March 28. New this year is a family dance hour from 7-9 p.m. Family hour includes dancing with Swoop and U cheerleaders.

The 13.1-hour event is the culmination of a yearlong fundraising effort for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. All faculty, staff, students and their guests are invited.

Rock the U started nine years ago, when then-ASUU President Jake Kirkham turned the tragedy of losing his father to cancer into action by creating the fundraiser.

“We are honored to keep this tradition alive, not only to honor its origins, but to further the Huntsman Cancer Institute’s research mission,” said Justin Spangler, ASUU president.

Participants are welcome to dance for all or part of the 13.1 hours as long as they are registered by midnight. Registration is $10 per individual or $25 for a family and can be done ahead of time at RockTheU.org or at the door.

Registration includes free food from Little Caesars, Freebirds World Burrito, Squatters, Whole Foods, Einstein Bros Bagels, Trader Joe’s, Dunkin’ Donuts and Coca-Cola; a Rock the U participant shirt; performances from DJ Jarvicious, DJ Flash & Flare, DJ Suzy Bean, DJ Harry Cross Jr. and DJ Bangarang; a dance off with Swoop and more.

Since the event began, Rock the U has raised more than $300,000 for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation. This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 through student, faculty and staff fundraising efforts. To register or donate, visit RockTheU.org.

Annalisa Purser is a communication specialist at University Marketing and Communications. If you have an interesting story idea, email her at annalisa.purser@utah.edu.