Special Olympics Virginia recently paid a visit to ECPI University’s Roanoke campus to present the campus with national banner recognition for its dedication to inclusion, advocacy, and respect. The university exceeded the 10 national standards of excellence set by Special Olympics, and is one of only two colleges in Virginia to receive this prestigious recognition.
For the past five years, ECPI University has worked with a program called No Bounds, an initiative that offers post-secondary education specifically tailored to adults with intellectual disabilities. Led by Dr. Tina Bhandari, this program allows students to benefit from the academic support and guidance provided by the university community. ECPI students and faculty members actively volunteer their time to teach, coach, and act as unified partners in various sports activities.
“One of the driving values of ECPI University Roanoke is to be an engaged community partner,” said ECPI University Roanoke’s Campus President Kevin Newby. “When Dr. Tina Bhandari initially approached me to provide classroom space for the No Bounds program,
I had no idea the positive impact the program would have on the school, our students, and me personally. The addition has had a truly transformative impact.”
Through interactions with the No Bounds program, ECPI staff, faculty, and students have gained valuable experience and insights that have broadened their perspectives and deepened their empathy. “The relationship between ECPI University and Special Olympics has been a source of blessings for both students and staff,” said Dr. Tina Bhandari.
Newby agrees. “Working together with No Bounds students and participating in volunteer activities such as Special Olympics has allowed ECPI students to develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills,” he said. “The program has enabled ECPI to forge new partnerships and collaborations with local organizations, enhancing its outreach and engagement efforts and enriching ECPI’s academic, social, and civic mission.”
ECPI University currently hosts four Unified Sports on campus and in the community: Unified Bocce, Basketball, Softball, and Track and Field. These sports provide opportunities for students with and without disabilities to engage in inclusive athletic endeavors.
To ensure the success and leadership development of these programs, ECPI University established a Unified Leadership Council consisting of students from diverse backgrounds. This council takes charge of planning and leading Unified Sports events and social activities. Additionally,
ECPI University and No Bounds participated in Unified College Championship Week, a nationwide event presented by ESPN that features teams from colleges and universities competing in inclusive activities. environment for all students and staff members, creating opportunities for growth and positive social interactions.
“One of the driving values of ECPI University Roanoke is to be an engaged community partner. No Bounds and Special Olympics provides our campus the opportunity to give back to the community in so many ways. Our relationship has been a blessing to our students and staff,” said ECPI UniversityRoanoke’s Campus President Kevin Newby.