More than a jig

Flyer airlines Flight 1850 had 16 passengers booked for Iona University in New Rochelle, New York, in April 2024. They just needed $2,000 to make the trip happen. 

Erin Owens and Kathryn Piech, health and sport science seniors and co-presidents of University of Dayton Irish Dance, helped develop the “Flyer Airlines” routine for the 2024 National Collegiate Irish Dance Championships at the home they share in the student neighborhood. Owens, Piech, former co-president Mary Kate Kelty ’24 and senior Cara Wilson choreographed the routine as an ode to UD with an Irish dance twist.

The team turned to Flyer Funder, UD’s crowdfunding platform, to raise money for the team’s registration fees, travel and costumes. Not only did the team exceed its financial goal thanks to the generosity of Flyers across 10 states, but UD Irish Dance also left Iona as national champions.

“There really was no expectation when we went there,” Owens said.

“Winning was the biggest shock ever, even though we knew how prepared we were. We were very proud.”

This was UD’s first year competing in the collegiate nationals, and the group beat 10 teams to win first place in the fun number competition, where teams perform to any type of music. 

Although UD Irish Dance was started in 2007, Owens and Piech said many express surprise to learn there’s an Irish dance group on campus. The 33-member organization has performed at campus events and basketball games, but Piech said Flyer Funder has helped the group gain more visibility. 

“It was a much easier way to network with more people and get information to them,” Piech said. “You can really put your personality into your Flyer Funder page, and I think we were able to show how passionate we were.”

Their fundraising page featured a video and updates on team activities. Their final post shared the news of their national title. Through the platform, the group raised $2,280 from friends, family, alumni and anonymous donors, giving team members another great reminder of the UD community spirit.

“I would encourage all organizations to use Flyer Funder.”  

“It’s a good way to get your name out there. It was super easy and really fun actually,” Piech said.

The team might launch another Flyer Funder campaign for next year’s expenses, but transportation costs won’t be an issue. UD Irish Dance will get the chance to defend its title right at home; UD will host the 2025 championships April 5 at the Dayton Masonic Center.