As the semester winds down, students and community members are invited to shake off stress and support a worthy cause at the NMU Stress Buster Zumbathon Charity Event. Dr. Mark Shevy, event organizer and Zumba instructor, joined us to share more about this high-energy, feel-good opportunity.
“This time of year can be so overwhelming,” Shevy said. “That’s why it’s important to take a break, do something good for your body and mind, and just move. Zumba is dancing, and dancing is joy.”
The Zumbathon takes place Friday, April 18, from 7–8 p.m. at NMU’s PEIF gym, room 150, and admission is simple: bring a non-perishable food item or a monetary donation to benefit Marquette Ending Hunger. Donations go directly to local food pantries—a tradition that has been part of the event from the beginning.
“We always say, bring something you’d want to eat yourself,” Shevy said. “Nutritious items go a long way in helping those facing food insecurity.”
The event is co-sponsored by NMU Rec Sports and Marquette Ending Hunger, and includes a special performance by the NMU Hip Hop Dance Crew, offering a dynamic blend of fitness, fun, and community-building. No experience is needed—just wear athletic clothes, bring clean indoor shoes, and be ready to move at your own pace.
“It’s about physical, emotional, and social well-being,” said Shevy. “You can laugh at yourself, make new friends, and create some great memories to end the year.”
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's conversation with Shevy:
The Zumbathon is part of a weekend of awareness, with a Walk to Fight Hunger planned the following day near NMU’s Cahodas Hall Pavilion. That event will include light refreshments and guest speakers raising awareness about poverty and food insecurity in the community.
Shevy, who also teaches Zumba at the YMCA and volunteers at other events throughout the year, is passionate about building bridges through movement and music.
“Show up and bust a move,” he said with a smile. “It’s that simple.”
Find out more about NMU Rec Sports here.
