Final Penn State DuBois Video Game Day raises $1,430 for THON

DuBOIS, Pa. — One of the longest-running and most beloved traditions at Penn State DuBois reached its conclusion on Nov. 15 as the campus hosted Video Game Day 42: The Final Level, welcoming more than 155 participants for a day of gaming, community and nostalgia.

The event — organized each fall by the campus Information Technology (IT) Club and supported by faculty, staff and alumni — has been a signature part of campus life for many years. This year’s gathering took on special meaning, as it served as the final Video Game Day with the pending closure of the DuBois campus.

The 42nd installment drew an especially large turnout of IST alumni who returned to campus to celebrate the program’s impact and reconnect with peers. Attendees ranged widely in age, from elementary-school gamers to adults who have participated in the event for years.

“It truly marks the end of an era,” said Jason Long, assistant teaching professor and IST program leader, who also serves as the faculty advisors for the IT Club. “Over the years, this event has become more than a gaming tradition. It’s been a place for community, creativity and forging connections that last well beyond the day.”

THON-focused philanthropy closes out the tradition

In addition to the tournament play and free-play stations that have become staples of Video Game Day, the IT Club chose to mark the event with a meaningful act of philanthropy. Proceeds from this year’s event were designated for the THON efforts at the DuBois campus, and the club voted to match all funds raised.

As a result, the IT Club will donate $1,430 to THON, continuing the student-run philanthropy organization’s longstanding tradition of supporting pediatric cancer patients and their families.

“This year’s decision by the IT Club to support THON speaks volumes about the heart of our students,” said Rebecca Pennington, director of student affairs and THON adviser at Penn State DuBois. “Video Game Day has always brought people together, and this final donation ensures its legacy will continue to impact children and families in the most meaningful way.”

Student leadership helps deliver a memorable finale

For IT Club members, planning the final Video Game Day was both a celebration and a responsibility.

“Being part of the last Video Game Day was emotional and inspiring,” said Abagail Kellogg-Long, IT Club president. “We wanted to honor everything this event has meant to students and alumni while giving back in a way that reflects the values of our club and this campus. Seeing everyone come together one last time is something I’ll never forget.”

The event featured multiplayer competitions, classic and modern gaming systems, PC stations, and retro video gaming consoles — continuing the variety that has helped Video Game Day remain one of the most attended events at Penn State DuBois year after year.

A celebration of community

For many alumni and community members, returning for the event underscored Video Game Day’s decades-long impact.

“This event has shown what is special about Penn State DuBois — the sense of belonging, the creativity of our students, and the power of shared experiences,” said Jungwoo Ryoo, chancellor and chief academic officer. “While this may be the final level for Video Game Day, the connections built here will continue to shape our alumni and community for years to come.”

As attendees packed up equipment and offered goodbyes, the message was clear: While Video Game Day may be ending, its legacy remains.

“Video Game Day may be logging out,” Long said, “but it will never be forgotten.”