Special Olympics Missouri: ATSU volunteers support 2025 State Summer Games
Posted: September 29, 2025
For the first time in its history, the Special Olympics Missouri State Summer Games took place in Kirksville, bringing together approximately 1,000 athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, and supporters from across the state. Held on Truman State University’s campus from May 30-June 1, the 2025 State Summer Games represented a weekend of competition, camaraderie, and community spirit.
Over the course of the multiday games, athletes competed in swimming, volleyball, powerlifting, and track and field, showcasing their determination” “and sportsmanship. Athletes had to qualify through their regional and area competitions to participate in the State Summer Games.
As part of the broader mission of Special Olympics, the games provided essential health services and education through the Healthy Athletes program. Thanks to support from medical partners, including ATSU volunteers, 408 free health screenings were provided in health and fitness, hearing, oral health, and more – all aimed at improving athletes’ overall well-being and performance.
More than 50 ATSU faculty, staff, students, alumni, and family members volunteered throughout the weekend. In addition to Healthy Athletes, ATSU volunteers helped with move-in crews, meal crews, and athletic events, as well as event planning and support.
“The Special Olympics, locally led and hosted by Truman State University, celebrated those who had the will and courage to compete, and those who had the heart and soul to volunteer,” says Gaylah Sublette, MBA, president of ATSU’s Missouri campus. “ATSU was proud to support these games in our historic hometown of Kirksville.”
The opening ceremony held Friday evening was emceed by comedian David Graham, whose high-energy humor and heartfelt support for the athletes set the tone for the weekend. Special guests and speakers included actor and comedian Bill Chott, a Missouri native, who greeted athletes and joined in the celebration. Local leaders, event sponsors, and statewide partners were recognized for their support in making the games possible. Law enforcement officers and mascots, including ATSU’s Bucky, were also there to welcome athletes.
One of the ceremony’s most moving moments came during the Parade of Athletes, as delegations from Missouri’s regions marched in front of a cheering crowd. Another highlight of the evening was the law enforcement Torch Run leading to the lighting of the Flame of Hope, a symbol of the Special Olympics mission. To cap off the ceremony, the night sky lit up with a drone show, celebrating the athletes and spirit of the games.
The energy throughout the weekend was electric, as the Kirksville community and regional supporters turned out to cheer, volunteer, and share in the joy of the games. Planned to be held in Kirksville again in 2026 and 2027, the games’ success was not only a milestone for Truman State University and the city of Kirksville but also a meaningful example of what is possible when a community comes together. From the opening ceremony to the final medals awarded, the 2025 State Summer Games left a lasting impact on everyone involved.
“Beyond the competition in Kirksville, the Special Olympics ignited a flame of inclusion and empathy across many communities, near and far,” President Sublette says. “They proved true strength lies in celebrating every individual’s unique abilities.”
