DeKALB — For the 26th consecutive “Do It To the Crowd” event, Greek organizations were asked to select a movie or film to base their performances, which included “Mean Girls,” released in 2004, “House Party,” released in 1990, and “Space Jam,” released in 1996.

The ladies of Alpha Sigma Alpha united the Greek Life community in the Duke Ellington Ballroom with their annual “Do It To the Crowd” fundraiser that provides funds to their philanthropy, the Special Olympics.

The event is the product of Anastasia Valentine, member of Alpha Sigma Alpha and NIU alumna. Valentine said she wanted to conceptualize an event that could raise money for the organization’s philanthropy, generating more revenue than previous events had.

“Do It To the Crowd” by Twin Hype was the number one song on the radio 26 years ago, and according to Valentine, that is where the name of the event originated. She said B96 radio came out to NIU to help kick off the event almost 30 years ago when it began.

“The concept of the event came at a time where people at Northern loved to dance,” Valentine said. “It’s grown so much that the boys are now doing it. It started as a female competition and has grown to now have themes where organizations can win more points as far as creativity and don’t necessarily have to be the best dancers.”

Sigma Kappa performed a rendition of “The Purge: Election Year,” released in 2016, with their members being featured in the infamous purge-style masks. They were crowned the champions of the women’s division of the event.

Taylor Millard, senior elementary education major, said she was looking forward to being on stage with her sisters one last time. She said the event is important for several reasons and brings students closer.

“I think this event is a great way to raise money for Special Olympics,” Millard said. “[It’s also] a way for everyone to come together and support one another as a Greek community.”

Millard served as Sigma Kappa’s head choreographer and said they selected their theme to bring something unique and scary to the competition.

Kevin Moore, freshman marketing major and competitor for Delta Chi said he was looking forward to the competition. This was Moore’s first time participating in the event, and his fraternity took first place for the men’s division with their performance of the 1978 classic, “Grease.” Moore said they chose to use the film for inspiration because of its already stunning dance numbers and its popularity.

Alpha Sigma Alpha will be announcing the total amount of money raised as soon as possible on their Facebook event page, which can be found by searching “Do It To the Crowd 2017.”