Southern Wesleyan University in Central hosted the annual Area 13 Special Olympics on Friday, April 17, 2026 for students in Pickens and Oconee Counties. This year’s theme was American Heroes, celebrating our country’s 250th birthday in 2026.

Area 13 Director Dianne Russom welcomed the huge crowd, which included athletes, family members, students and teachers from Pickens and Oconee County school districts, and staff members of Southern Wesleyan University. “I am so proud of Oconee and Pickens Counties,” she said. “This being my 52^nd year, I’ve seen a lot of growth, and I am just very proud of what you’ve become and all of your accomplishments.”

She then introduced Andrew Beckwith, Southern Wesleyan University’s Chief of Staff and Executive Vice President. “Thank you, Dianne. Good morning to you all. I just have a couple of people I want to introduce you to this morning. First is the Mayor of the Town of Central, Rev. Ken Dill. He also spent about 30 years as our Chaplain here at the University. And, on behalf of Mayor Dill and me, as a representative of the university, we want to welcome you here to Southern Wesleyan and to our hometown of Central. I also have another special friend here. This is Aiden Barker. The President of Southern Wesleyan, Dr. Barker, couldn’t be here today. He is out on military duty. He sends his greetings, but he also sends his son, Aiden, to represent him. Aiden is a veteran Olympian of these games, and I’ve asked him to share what his favorite event is. Can you tell us what your favorite event is, buddy?” ‘Long jump,’ said Aiden Barker.

“Here at Southern Wesleyan,” said Beckwith, “we believe that every young man and woman that comes to study on our campus and all the young men and women here today are made in the image of God and are precious in His sight. So, we’re excited for you all to show us the amazing things you’re capable of here today. I just want to thank a few people from the university who helped make this possible. First, our Athletic Director Julia Reininga and her team. I want to thank Christin Harrison and her team with Auxiliary Services, Adam Ladd, our Director of Campus Safety and his team, and, of course, all of the volunteers, staff, faculty, and students. Thank you for helping make this possible.  Welcome to Southern Wesleyan.”

Russom then introduced Tyler Poole of Pickens County Board of Disabilities and Special Needs, who gave the invocation. “Let us pray. Our Father, we thank you for letting us all gather out here today. May we compete with all our heart, all our soul, all our might, and all our strength, And may we all be safe and do what we’re told to do. In Christ’s name, Amen.”

Then, as music from the film Rocky played, the Parade of Athletes began.

Following the Parade of Athletes, The Knights of Columbus Seneca Chapter presented the colors, and Jarah Roper from Southern Wesleyan University sang “The Star-Spangled Banner”, the national anthem.  

Following the retiring of colors by the Knights of Columbus, the torch run commenced with Major Smith, Matthew Capps, Luis Angeles, and Austin Dodgin, as music from the film Chariots of Fire played.

Russom then introduced Hayley Billings, a Southern Wesleyan University student and lacrosse player, who declared the games open. “Good morning, everyone” Billings said. “On behalf of Southern Wesleyan University, it is our absolute honor and joy to welcome you to the Area 13 Special Olympics. We are so proud to host this incredible event and to stand alongside athletes, coaches, families, volunteers, and supporters. Each of you represents the heart of what makes this day so meaningful. To the athletes, you inspire us with your determination, your sportsmanship, and your joy. You have trained hard, shown courage, and today is your day to shine. At Southern Wesleyan, we believe in the power of community and celebrating each person’s God-given potential. And, today, we get to witness that spirit in action. So, now, with great pride and excitement, it is my privilege to say the words you’ve been waiting for. Let the 2026 Area 13 Special Olympics officially begin.”

Russom then introduced Murat Tulbentci, who stated the Athlete Oath (which was written by Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968), and the athletes repeated after him. “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” Then, he concluded, “And let the games begin.”

Russom then introduced Mayor Dill, who announced the Spirit Awards, selected by a committee, and a representative from each school accepted the award: third place Pickens High School, second place Walhalla Middle School, and first place Blue Ridge Elementary School.”