CEDAR CITY, Utah (October 16, 2025) – While students across Utah colleges and universities navigate midterms, an innovative program continues to redefine the meaning of "college student" right here in the Beehive State. Special Olympics Utah (SOUT), in collaboration with Southern Utah University (SUU) and the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games, has established SOUT University, a pioneering educational initiative designed to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to achieve greater self-reliance, increase self-confidence, and develop essential leadership skills.
The collaboration with Southern Utah University elevates SOUT University beyond a standalone program by providing a tangible, recognized official SUU credit credential, a pivotal achievement for participants. The program itself began earlier this year, successfully building on a foundation of athletic achievement and community engagement already established through Special Olympics Utah and the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games.
SUU's Community & Workforce Development department was uniquely positioned to formalize the program by linking the existing SOUT learning models to higher education, creating a microcredential. This established class model allows SOUT University participants to receive the SUU credential upon successful completion of the courses.
"Collaboration is at the heart of SUU's Community and Workforce Development. Partnering with Special Olympics Utah expands what it means to be a college student and ensures every individual has access to learning pathways that can connect learners to opportunity for growth," said Melinda Pfundstein, Executive Director of Community & Workforce Development at SUU.
The inaugural group of graduating individuals is expected to receive their SUU credentials at the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Special Olympics Utah Summer Games, held at Southern Utah University.
"The promotion of lifelong healthy lifestyles is a pillar mission of the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games and something we strive to achieve in our programming and strategic partnerships," said Jon Oglesby, Executive Director of the Games. "Education is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle, and we are grateful to our colleagues in Community and Workforce Development for ensuring the Special Olympics Utah partnership with Southern Utah University is caring for the minds and bodies of Special Olympics athletes."
People living with I/DD represent one of the most marginalized groups in the United States, often encountering unequal access to vital services and opportunities. Special Olympics Utah is confronting this disparity head-on by elevating its athlete leadership to an unprecedented level through SOUT University, which features a meticulously crafted, athlete-driven curriculum. Topics are thoughtfully chosen by the Special Olympics Utah Athlete Leadership Council to educate individuals on crucial concepts that foster stability and security. This focused education leads to significant improvements in cognitive and daily living skills, making participants truly workplace ready. The course is delivered as a dynamic series of monthly events through May 2026, featuring local experts and held at various locations with virtual options to ensure statewide accessibility.
The impact is clear among participants.
"I love to see friends and meet other people in the community. It is interesting to learn what others do professionally and see how we can improve ourselves," said SOUT U participant Kyle Karren.
Fellow participant Trey Garrett echoed the sentiment, stating that he loves the learning and fun of being a part of the program.
"SOUT University is more than just a series of classes; it's a testament to our belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and lead," says Michelle Wolfenbarger, Engagement Coordinator for SOUT. "We are immensely proud to offer a program that not only equips our athletes with practical skills but also ignites their potential to become confident, self-advocating leaders within their communities. I truly believe that our athletes benefit from the classes we offer; they get to meet new people and learn new skills. I rarely have to pay for a venue or a class instructor because folks in our community are happy to contribute their talents and resources to this amazing organization."
About Special Olympics Utah
Special Olympics Utah provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
About Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University is a caring campus community where students realize their potential through personalized mentorship from people dedicated to help them soar. Offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, SUU provides hands-on, career-focused learning to prepare students for the future. Located in the world's best backyard, SUU's safe and vibrant campus offers a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels supported and inspired by both the natural beauty and a strong sense of community. Whether on campus or online, SUU provides an education that is competitively priced and highly valued, giving students the skills and confidence to thrive in any professional setting. This is where students soar.
About the Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games
The Larry H. Miller Utah Summer Games is one of the premier sporting competitions in the state, drawing a numerous variety of teams and athletes to Cedar City each year. The Olympic style sports-festival has been conducted at SUU since 1986.
