Students, faculty and community members at Saint Xavier University braved icy water Wednesday, March 25, as part of the school’s second annual Polar Plunge, raising thousands of dollars to support Special Olympics Illinois athletes.
The high-energy event brought together participants from across campus and beyond, including students and staff from the Community High School District 218 Adult Transition Program, Mount Sion Program students and mentors from Brother Rice High School, graduate students from the university’s Communication Sciences and Disorders program, and clients from the Ludden Speech and Hearing Clinic.
“This is the second annual plunge,” said Laura Jones, adjunct clinical supervisor in Communication Sciences and Disorders at Saint Xavier. “Anyone from the campus is invited.”
Participants committed to raising at least $100 each, contributing to a growing fundraising total that had already reached more than $9,300 ahead of the event. An additional $6,000 raised during a recent fundraiser is expected to boost that number even higher in the coming weeks.
Last year, the university community raised more than $16,000 for Special Olympics Illinois, directly supporting year-round sports training, competitions, health services and leadership opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
The plunge reflects the university’s broader mission and values.
“Taking part in the Polar Plunge means coming together in a visible, high-energy way to support athletes with intellectual disabilities while strengthening SXU’s culture of inclusion, service and school pride,” Jones said.
The event also fosters connections among campus groups and community partners, turning inclusion into a shared, lived experience rather than an abstract idea.
Students said the impact is both personal and communal.
“The polar plunge is meaningful to me because it brings people together to support an important cause and highlights the power of community coming together for a shared purpose,” said Molly McCabe, 23, of Mount Greenwood. “Over the years, I have seen the positive impact Special Olympics has had on the lives of friends and classmates, which makes participating especially meaningful to me. I’m excited to be part of an event that promotes inclusion, community, and support for others.”
Chloe Clark, 23, of Edison Park, said the event demonstrates the strength of collective support.
“The polar plunge means a lot to me because it shows just how strong our community truly is,” Clark said. “Seeing so many people come together to support inclusion and celebrate every individual is incredibly inspiring. It’s a reminder that when we lift each other up, we all grow stronger.”
Clark added that the plunge also pushes participants outside their comfort zones in a meaningful way.
“For me personally, it’s also about stepping outside my comfort zone and being willing to show up in a meaningful way,” she said. “Being part of something that promotes acceptance, opportunity, and support for Special Olympics makes the experience truly special.”
The event served as a vivid reminder that school spirit can translate into tangible impact, supporting athletes, strengthening partnerships and building a more inclusive community.
