The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is well known for as the nation’s first public university, its academic standing is one of the highest in the nation, and its basketball team is unmatched in tradition. These are notable traits. However, the school is exceptional in another arena — its dedication to the patients of N.C. Children’s Hospital.

The UNC Dance Marathon is the largest student-run fundraising organization in North Carolina. In the last 15 years, UNC-DM has raised over $3.3 million to aid the patients and families of N.C. Children’s Hospital. While money is raised year-round, the main event is the marathon, which takes place in February. At the marathon, more than 1,600 students stand for 24 hours in support of these patients.

In the 23rd hour of the event, the ...