Southern Connecticut State University has been recognized as a Platinum Sponsor of Special Olympics Connecticut, reflecting the university’s longstanding partnership and commitment to supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities through sport and inclusion.
The partnership spans decades. During the 1990s, Southern hosted county-level Special Olympics competitions before becoming the primary host of the Connecticut Summer Games in the early 2000s.
Today, the Summer Games bring thousands of athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers to campus each year for athletic competitions, aquatics events, opening ceremonies, athlete housing, and volunteer operations. The New Haven region also holds a special place in Special Olympics history, having hosted the 9th World Summer Games in 1995, an international event that welcomed thousands of athletes from around the world.
“Hosting the Special Olympics Connecticut Summer Games is a true campuswide effort, requiring the dedication of our Student Affairs, Facilities, and University Police teams, along with countless faculty, staff, students, and community members who generously volunteer their time each year,” said Interim President Sandy Bulmer. “We are honored to support an event that celebrates inclusion, perseverance, and the extraordinary achievements of its athletes. Congratulations to all of this year’s competitors and their families. We look forward to welcoming you back to Southern next year.”
