Janelle Henney, a sophomore Social Policy major, arguably has more school spirit than most NU students you will encounter in your four years here and is not afraid to bring her enthusiasm to everything Northwestern-related she touches. After joining the 60-Hour Club and leading her Zeta/Phi Psi DM team to a second-place fundraising trophy, I checked in with Henney to find her secret to success.
You were a rock star this weekend! Tell me about your involvement with DM.
I had learned about Dance Marathon before coming to Northwestern my freshman year, hearing that it was one of NU’s biggest traditions. I knew that I wanted to be involved somehow so I figured that the best way would be to dance. I danced with my dorm last year, and I had an amazing and exhausting time. I fell in love with the spirit of DM, and for what it stands. This year, I was the group head for my sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, because I wanted to share the great experience that I had with other girls in my chapter.
How did it feel to see your hard work pay off with a second place trophy?
I felt really humbled when we won 2nd place in fundraising for a medium sized group. I know I couldn’t have done it alone, and it wasn’t my efforts that got us there. But also, I felt so proud of all the hard work that our team and myself had put in to making this year’s Dance Marathon the best it could be.
As a new member of the 60-hour club, what’s your best DM story?
I love the people you meet and the bonds you make during Dance Marathon. Last year as a freshman, I met two really close friends during DM, which makes that weekend very special. Who knows who I met this year that I will become great friends with?
Did you make it to block 11?
There is no way I would have made it to Block 11. I was sick before DM, and staying awake and dancing for 30 hours didn’t make me any better. I went home, showered, and slept all day Sunday. Kudos to anyone who did, though.
What are your DM plans for next year?
I’ve thought about joining a committee, but I know that I’ll probably just end up dancing. For me, it’s the best way to enjoy that weekend, and it’s just so much fun. I’m considering being the group head again for Zeta. Regardless, I’ll be entering the 90-hour club.
Sum up your experience at NU in one sentence. GO.
NU continues to amaze me through the initiative, intelligence, and support of its students, and I’m proud to be a member of that group.
What have you been involved with since freshman year?
Along with DM and Zeta Tau Alpha, I’ve been a member of BLAST, the Ballroom, Latin, And Swing Team since my freshman year. By no means am I an expert ballroom dancer, but it’s something that I definitely enjoy… I joined BLAST early freshman year because I’ve always wanted to learn to ballroom dance. Besides it being super classy and useful, it’s a lot of fun. This year, I’m the Away Competition Coordinator, which means I organize trips for the team to go to other universities to compete.
Growing up a tomboy with four older brothers, I have never considered myself a “sorority girl,” but I’ve had some of the most rewarding experiences and made some of my greatest friends in ZTA. Along with DM Chair, I am also Activities Chair, which means I organize girls to go and participate in campus wide events involving Greek Life.
So what’s your secret to being so enthusiastic about everything you do?
I secretly love being outrageously happy, but don’t tell anyone.