Audiology teams with Special Olympics for mutual cause

March 17, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 13)
Article by Kennedy Scott

large group of young kids and adults in capes with arms raised in super hero pose

three people standing with the backs to camera in capes (blue, red and black) and eye masks

Audiology students, faculty and their family members raise a hero's fist with Special Olympians James Yeck and Jennifer Watters at a polar plunge fundraising event.

GVSU’s Doctor of Audiology program and Special Olympics Michigan teamed up in February to raise nearly $9,000 for a mutual cause: inclusion.

Each year, Special Olympics Michigan hosts a series of events where individuals, organizations and businesses can gather pledges to support their plunge into freezing cold water.

The audiology team, “Plunging for Inclusion: Calling all hEARoes!” included 25 Special Olympics athletes, Grand Valley faculty, students and family members.

The team raised $8,833 to support Special Olympics Michigan athletes. They won the “Most Money Raised Area Team” award and contributed to exceeding the Grand Rapids Polar Plunge goal of $85,000.

Special Olympics athlete and co-captain Jennifer Mireles said: “It was fulfilling. I love that they took my ideas to the team. It made everybody feel wanted and included. We all had a good time getting to know each other and coming together for a good cause.”

Audiology student Chloe Ward said this experience was meaningful to them, too. “We plunged alongside our team captains, James and Jennifer," Ward said. "It was very special to see how much it meant to them and to be a part of something bigger.”

While events like these foster connection, they also add to the experiential learning opportunities within all College of Health Professions programs. Jennifer Smart, associate professor of audiology and program director, has been a Special Olympics volunteer for years and has organized many CHP collaborations with the organization.

“Dr. Smart is a huge part of Special Olympics Michigan," Ward said. "Having her experience and leadership allows us to become a more inclusive program and spread awareness about the importance of advocating for these athletes."

— Kennedy Scott is the marketing and communications specialist for the College of Health Professions.