Athlete Leadership

His No. 21 Hocking College football uniform—a nod to the 21st chromosome associated with Down syndrome—is folded neatly in a standalone display.

I first met Karen Milligan about fifteen years ago at beginner Special Olympics Athlete Leadership training. Even though Karen is smaller in stature than a lot of us attending, I noticed right away that she had a big personality. She was warm and friendly. It was clear that she really loved Special Olympics. For years now, I’ve had many experiences alongside Karen. Her personality and her actions make me feel a part of a larger family, the Special Olympics family.

A woman in my life who has had a large impact on me.

Having been involved with the organization for over three decades in a variety of areas, Campbell is set to become the first athlete to be named board chair for the Program.

Abdul-Jillil gets ready to host her "Afternoons with Ayesha" segment, helping athletes stay fit and connected virtually.

Some people may be glad that 2021 is in the past and happily threw the December 2021 calendar page into the recycling bin. It was a year of extra challenges for everybody and divisiveness about how to meet these challenges. But all was not lost when it comes to the Inclusion Revolution movement.

Special Olympics brings people together, even when they least expect it. For Mercy Ogutu and Britney Bautista, who live across the country from each other, Special Olympics is exactly how their connection began .

For over three decades, Chris Meservey has shared his blissfulness with everyone he meets within Special Olympics Nevada and beyond. By career choice, he teaches public speaking at the high school level but stemming from his love of sports, he coaches basketball and swimming.

I dedicate my time to develop as an athlete leader. I show up to my commitments and sport practices. Some days I don’t feel like putting in the effort, but I do it anyway because it helps me develop into a stronger athlete and a stronger leader. I am willing to put in the hard work! True leaders dedicate their energy to what they love to do.

In over a decade of participation in Special Olympics, I’ve learned many athlete leadership skills that have helped me, and any athlete, move into an inclusive workplace. In today’s blog piece I will share with you five Special Olympics Athlete Leadership skills that have prepared me for my current employment at United Airlines, which includes: public speaking and interviews, getting outside of myself, having a global perspective, taking initiative, and valuing all members of a team.