February 28, 2024
SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. — Trine University’s High Voltage Dance Team, alongside Trine mascot Storm, attended a special event to celebrate those ages 14 and older who have special needs.
The ninth annual Night to Shine, founded and supported by the Tim Tebow Foundation, took place nationwide on Feb. 9. The exciting event provides a glamorous prom night experience for tens of thousands of people.
This year’s event, hosted by the LaGrange First Church of God at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center in Shipshewana, was free of charge. The special night was well-attended, uniting over 750 community members, made up of guests, buddies and volunteers.
Trine’s High Voltage Dance Team has made a positive impact the last three years, adding zestful life to the event.
“This event is so special to me and close to my heart,” said team captain, Jenna Zabona, who has attended for seven years. “I have been so honored to be in charge of making it happen. I am so thankful to be a part of a program that emphasizes on giving back and prioritizes this event every year!”
Allison Fought, media coordinator for the event, started out by attending the event as a buddy. She was inspired by the glow that the event brought to participants and joined the Night to Shine committee.
“This night lights up their life; they look forward to it every year,” said Fought. “After getting more involved, it's a feeling I still haven't gotten used to year after year. Guests, as well as their parents and caregivers, are so thankful and filled with gratitude for us putting this event together, and it really just fills my cup!”
Fought has noticed the dance team’s impact, stating, “The Trine Dance Team brings such a fun charisma to the event! Everyone loves to see the dancers on the dance floor and even teaching a move or two! Their smiles are infectious, and the guests really loved having Storm this year as well!”
The event started in 2014 as a celebration of The Tim Tebow Foundations’ five-year anniversary. Now in its ninth year, the event has spread across 56 countries, hosting over 500 events worldwide this year.
To learn more about the event, visit timtebowfoundation.org/night-to-shine/
Low-income residents or those with disabilities or limited English proficiency can once again get their taxes prepared and filed electronically at no cost this spring through the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program hosted by Trine University.
Trine University has received a $200,000 planning grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help the university explore various challenges and opportunities arising from rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and guide their integration into curricula.
Justin Weber, an experienced teacher and education administrator, has joined Trine University as its new executive director of student success.