From T-shirts to limited-edition crewnecks, NOVAdance merchandise has become an integral part of the annual dance marathon and one of its most effective fundraising tools.
Each year, NOVAdance merchandise does more than just fill the welcome tables on the day of the event. The apparel designed months in advance has become a staple of the student-run dance marathon. The merchandise team creatively collaborates to create T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, other accessories and a surprise item that students will get to see on the day of.
In addition to in-person sales, much of the merchandise will also be available through an online storefront allowing students to purchase items even after the event if sizes sell out.
Behind the scenes is a small committee responsible for designing, producing and selling every piece they create. This year, the effort is led by the senior Merchandise Chair and two sophomores, who oversee the creative direction and logistics of the operation. They make it all happen.
Planning begins early summer, long before the theme is revealed. The committee gathers inspiration anywhere from Pinterest to TikTok or campus clubs to sorority merch. Once the designs are finalized, they are sent to long-time partner who works for Clothes On, who then delivers the final products to NOVAdance’s PR director.
For senior Kayla Schmidt, the merchandise committee has turned out to be more than what she could have imagined it to be for her Villanova experience. What started as an aimless walk through the involvement fair her second week of freshman year, eventually placed her at the center of one of NOVAdance’s most visible traditions.
The merch committee was a new addition to the NOVAdance Schmidt’s sophomore year.
“Candidly, when I applied at the end of my freshman year for a committee, I didn’t put the merch down for one of my choices.” Schmidt said. “At first I was upset that this is what I got chosen for, but after practicing with designing T-shirts and stickers, it was fun having so much creative control.”
Schmidt switched to the media team her junior year, but enjoyed the innovative side of merch so much she decided to return for her final year at Villanova.
“I’ve always loved surprises.” Schmidt said. “Being able to design the merch and surprise everyone else on the committee is my favorite part.”
The sense of anticipation has become a defining feature of the merchandise experience. From sneak peeks to the final reveal, each item contributes to the energy of the event. This year’s theme being “Where Positive Fuels the Fire” signifies the consistent purpose of bringing people together.
“Looking back, one of my favorite parts is hearing why other people are here and why they wanted to be a part of NOVAdance.” Schmidt said. “The beautiful part is getting to be surrounded by all these people working just as hard as you to make a difference.”
Be sure to indulge in the merch at this year’s NOVAdance event on Saturday, March 28.
