Behind the curtain

For one night each fall, the University of Dayton Arena becomes a stage for elaborate costumes, choreographed routines, upbeat lip syncs and an enthusiastic crowd. Behind the curtain, however, the event is much bigger than just a dance competition. 

Toward the end of UD’s annual Greek Week, Puttin’ on the Hits, or POTH, the members of the University’s fraternities and sororities come together to represent their organizations, create dance routines and support a shared cause. 

This year, the Greek Week theme, “FSL (fraternity and sorority life) World Tour,” invited participating chapters to build their dance mashups around famous concert tours. This year, for example, the songs of Pitbull, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga and other notable artists were on full display. While groups competed for the top performance, their common mission remained the same: to raise funds for the Dayton Dream Center, a local nonprofit organization that provides services for people struggling with poverty and homelessness.

After conversations with the Dream Center’s staff about opportunities to support its work, organizers knew it was the perfect choice. 

“I hope the impact of the POTH and Greek Week’s fundraising efforts will help support the Dayton Dream Center in being able to give more to the Dayton community and keep their efforts stable and consistent,” said Treazure Edwards ’26, the vice president of external affairs for UD’s National Panhellenic Council.

For Emily Templin ’26, vice president of intercouncil relations for UD’s College Panhellenic Council, POTH brings chapters together for a shared purpose built on friendly competition.

“POTH is one time a year when the entire FSL community comes together to not only showcase the routine they spent weeks perfecting, but to celebrate our community and the chosen nonprofit,” Templin said.

“Although competing against one another, the common goal of raising funds for a local nonprofit builds connections between members across the community.” 

After experiencing POTH for the first time in 2024 as an FSL member, Templin immediately connected with the chance to combine her love of dance with her involvement in Panhellenic life. This year, she assisted with planning, overseeing and executing POTH while co-hosting with Evan Englander, director of Fraternity and Sorority Life. 

The event has grown significantly over the years, moving from the RecPlex to the UD Arena in 2025 to accommodate larger crowds and expand the stage. 

Englander calls Greek Week a “labor of love” and POTH “the icing on the cake.” 

The event was scheduled for Family Weekend, meaning families were able to witness and personally contribute to the important mission. 

“You get to see new and familiar faces interacting across grade levels and chapter lines,” said Michael Debrosse ’26, vice president of intercouncil relations for UD’s Interfraternity Council. “And the best part is everyone has a smile on their face.” 

This year, Greek Week set new records for community service hours, goods collected and money raised. 

“My favorite part of POTH and Greek Week is when we get to hand out that big check,” Englander said.

“Surprising our beneficiary and seeing the look of joy, relief and gratitude is what this week is really all about. It’s an amazing experience.” 

When the music kicks up, dances begin and the crowd sings along, it’s evident that POTH encapsulates the crossroads of creativity and purpose.