SXU to Participate in Respect Week as Special Olympics Unified Champion School
Saint Xavier University (SXU) was recently recognized as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School and is the first university in the region to receive the designation. In March, the University will participate in its first-ever Respect Week, which promotes acceptance, inclusion and understanding across campus.
To earn the recognition, schools must implement three key components: inclusive sports, where students with and without intellectual disabilities compete together; inclusive youth leadership, fostering collaboration and advocacy; and whole-school engagement, promoting a culture of acceptance.
SXU's Communication Sciences and Disorders Division initiated the effort to be recognized. As part of their Special Education Module, CSD graduate students do activities alongside students from the District 218 Adult Transition Program (ATP). The Unified Special Olympics soccer team, composed of CSD graduate students and ATP students, played the SXU women's soccer team.
"Being recognized as a Special Olympics Unified Champion School is a huge honor for SXU and reinforces our commitment to inclusion and community. It shows that the University values diversity, teamwork and meaningful connections between students of all abilities and highlights how SXU creates opportunities for students to learn, lead and grow together. More than just a title, it reflects SXU's dedication to building an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected and empowered to make a difference," said Lisa Osier, director of clinical education for the Communication Sciences and Disorders Division.
Respect Week started as the "Spread the Word" campaign to end the use of hurtful language toward people with disabilities, but it has grown into a movement that encourages kindness and acceptance in all areas of life. SXU's participation reflects the University's commitment to building a welcoming and inclusive community, celebrating diversity, and promoting a culture of understanding and respect.
The entire Saint Xavier community is invited and encouraged to participate in Respect Week and advocate for inclusion daily.
"Getting involved in Respect Week at SXU is easy and fun! Students, faculty and staff can join by attending events, having conversations about inclusion, and taking the pledge to spread kindness and respect. Clubs and organizations can get creative with awareness activities, inclusive sports and games, or volunteer projects with Special Olympics. Even simple things like using respectful language, supporting others and sharing positive messages can make a big impact," said Osier.
Respect Week will take place March 17-21. On March 19, the Cool School Polar Plunge will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on SXU's Bruce R. Deaton Memorial Field. This event is open to all students, faculty, staff and the community, and it is free to plunge. Register or donate on the Polar Plunge website. During the week, the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association will host an awareness table in the SXU Diner with raffles and educational materials. ATP students will develop their communication skills while promoting the plunge by visiting SXU classes to discuss inclusivity importance.
"Community involvement in Respect Week is a great way for all at SXU to show we truly care about inclusion and respect. It's a chance for us to come together and remind each other that everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, deserves to feel valued and supported. At the end of the day, it's about creating a community where kindness and understanding are part of everything we do," said Osier.