Stephanie Wilkerson, a remarkable athlete from Davidson County, has recently been bestowed with the esteemed Billy Quick Leadership Award by Special Olympics North Carolina, recognizing her profound dedication and inspiring leadership within the athletic training and competition sphere. This significant accolade highlights her exceptional contributions and commitment to fostering a more inclusive world for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The Billy Quick Leadership Award, established in loving memory of Guilford County’s own standout Special Olympics athlete and Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger, Billy Quick, is presented to athletes who embody the spirit of inspiration and actively champion inclusivity. Wilkerson’s receipt of this prestigious honor underscores her impactful advocacy and her role as a beacon of hope and determination within the Special Olympics community.
Reflecting on the moment of recognition at the Special Olympics North Carolina Games in Raleigh, Wilkerson candidly shared her surprise. She recalled a growing suspicion as the award criteria were announced, noting how the description of the winner’s long-standing involvement since 2015 and participation in various sports perfectly mirrored her own journey, leading to the joyous revelation that she was indeed the recipient.
Wilkerson’s journey with Special Olympics began in 2015, marking nearly a decade of unwavering commitment. Her dedication is mirrored by her parents, Lori and Robert Wilkerson, who have served as long-time advocates and devoted volunteers for the organization. The Wilkerson family’s collective efforts and profound impact have garnered multiple awards and recognitions over the years, including the distinguished 2021-22 Civitan Family of the Year award, solidifying their legacy of service.
Beyond her impressive athletic feats, which include recent medals in state weightlifting competitions, Wilkerson actively embraces numerous leadership positions. She serves as a Global Messenger, an SONC athlete ambassador, and a Unified leadership trainer, continuously working to empower others. Her role as an athlete representative for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics North Carolina State Council further exemplifies her comprehensive involvement and influence.
In her capacity as a representative for Special Olympics North Carolina, Wilkerson tirelessly champions the cause by engaging with local and state elected officials, passionately advocating for their support and active engagement. She also plays a crucial role in cultivating relationships with donors and corporate sponsors, articulating the vital need for financial backing to ensure 53,000 Special Olympics athletes can continue to compete and thrive.
Her commitment extends across state lines, as evidenced by her recent advocacy efforts in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There, she continued to promote the mission of Special Olympics, urging more North Carolina and South Carolina sheriff’s departments to participate in the impactful Special Olympics Torch Run, an event that traditionally precedes the opening of the state games, symbolizing unity and determination.
For Wilkerson, receiving the Billy Quick Award transcends personal achievement; it signifies a profound validation of her lifelong mission. “I feel proud that I got the Billy Quick Award,” she stated, emphasizing her deep satisfaction. “It made me feel like I have done something for every athlete. That’s my goal, to help other Special Olympics athletes,” she concluded, underscoring her enduring commitment to empowering her peers and fostering a truly inclusive world.
Leave a Reply