UMO Hosts Special Olympics Spring Games
April 14, 2026
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE – The University of Mount Olive will welcome athletes, families, and volunteers from across the region on April 15 for the Special Olympics Spring Games, a one-day event centered on competition, inclusion, and celebration.
The event, which will take place from 10 AM to approximately 1 PM, will feature an opening ceremony followed by track and field competitions, including running and throwing events. Athletes will be recognized with awards immediately following their events, and recreational activities and lunch will round out the day’s schedule.
Behind the scenes, a group of 11 students from the UMO Honors Program has taken the responsibility of planning and managing the event, working in partnership with Special Olympics North Carolina. Their involvement reflects a commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement that extends beyond the classroom.
“What inspired us to take on Special Olympics as our class service project was a drive within all of us to do something that would affect people’s lives and bring them joy,” said Honors student Mia Ogg. “That is exactly what the Special Olympics Spring Games is all about.”
Preparation for an event of this scale began months in advance and required coordination with Special Olympics leadership, campus partners including UMO Athletics, and volunteers from across North Carolina. Students completed Games Management Training and were assigned specific leadership roles, ranging from volunteer coordination to logistics and awards management.
“An event of this size required preparation, communication, and participation,” said Jazna Dumont, an elementary education major. “Volunteers are what truly make an event like this run smoothly, and their support allows us to celebrate the athletes’ hard work and achievements.”
Dr. Jill Mills, Assistant Dean in the School of Arts and Sciences and Honors Program leader, praised the students’ efforts and adaptability. “I’m so proud that this small class eagerly volunteered to manage what began as a two-day event involving hundreds of volunteers and athletes,” Mills said. “They have been able to pivot as plans changed and adapt quickly, demonstrating strong leadership throughout the process.”
For the students, the experience has extended beyond logistics and event planning. Many noted that working with Special Olympics athletes has reshaped their understanding of service, leadership, and inclusion. “This experience has made me more thoughtful and more determined to use my voice to promote inclusion and respect,” said student Josephine Palmer. “I didn’t just get an opportunity to volunteer. I learned to see service as a partnership.”
The event also highlights the collaborative spirit between the university and the broader community. Volunteers from local organizations, high schools, and civic groups will assist with everything from setup and athlete check-in to directing events and presenting awards.
“According to Kelly Vaughn, Chief Operating Officer of Special Olympics North Carolina, this partnership serves as a model for how colleges and universities can support inclusive programming while providing meaningful leadership opportunities for students.”
The impact of the event is expected to extend well beyond competition. For athletes and their families, the day offers a chance to feel celebrated and supported in a welcoming environment.
“I hope they take away that our community is willing to go the extra mile to ensure they have a fun and fulfilling experience,” said student Anastasia Stafford. “We want everyone to feel accomplished, challenged, and supported.”
In addition to benefiting athletes, the project reflects the broader mission of the UMO Honors Program “The Special Olympics project reflects our commitment to giving back and being part of the community,” said student Viridiana Lopez De Jesus. “It supports values like caring, respect, and responsibility while bringing people together.”
About UMO
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
