Our Olympian

National Disability Employment Awareness Month Our Olympian

Kings College Dining associate Jeannie is truly an inspiration.

Growing up, it was clear to my family that my determination was going to take me places, and it ultimately led me to the Special Olympics.

I’m the only Special Olympian in my family, but everyone comes to watch and cheer me on. Since high school, I’ve competed in over 40 Special Olympics for long jump, track and bowling, and my competitions at Allentown, Hershey and Villanova have earned me numerous gold medals.

Yet my participation in the Special Olympics has given me much more than medals. I’ve made friends and visited different places, and this has shaped me immensely. Spending time with my friends at the Special Olympics is one of the most important reasons I love doing them.

My job at King’s College began in 2002. The Special Olympics enabled me to hold a job I’m proud of, with the impact on my social skills being the most profound. I am a very kind person and I love to laugh and make others laugh too, but that doesn’t mean I’m a push over. The Special Olympics has taught me how to stand tall and proud and how to be an independent and happy person. I plan to continue participating in the Special Olympics for as long as I can.

Jeannie is such an inspiration to the team!

The Special Olympics has taught me how to stand tall and proud and how to be an independent and happy person.