Hanna Joy Atkinson

The position has shaped me into a spirited, thoughtful leader in the inclusion revolution, where I help define the mindset of what true inclusion looks like.

Video celebrating Special Olympics as the recipient of the 2022 “Turn the World Outward” award from Arbinger Institute.

Happy October and National Disability Employment Awareness Month! It’s the season of showcasing diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Hi everyone,

Good day to all our readers! As we point our attention to the upcoming 2022 Special Olympics USA Games, I hope you are ready for a magical event full of competition and togetherness!

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

Special Olympics corporate sponsor, United Airlines, has hired Special Olympics athletes in Denver as part of their team.

What lessons did you learn in 2021 and how do you plan to implement those lessons in 2022 to make the world more inclusive?

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.