Thirteen St. Margaret's National Honor Society students served as volunteers at the Special Olympics Virginia Alpine Skiing Championships at Wintergreen Resort Jan. 26-27. This is the fourteenth year that St. Margaret’s students have assisted with this event.

“Students learn through service,” said ViAnn Farmer, the trip organizer and director of studies. “Opportunities to assist others allow them to learn valuable lessons about themselves and become more responsible citizens.”

The students recorded times, refereed, assisted trainers, cheered on participants and generally helped wherever needed. Junior Hannah Newman of Lancaster helped athletes put on skis and maintain their balance on the icy hills. She commented on how the experience provided an incredible insight into the athletes’ lives, which helped her reflect on her own personal goals.

Other students had similar comments. “The athletes made me feel as if the world can be as simple as sliding down a slope,” said junior Amelia Chen, a boarding student from Taiwan. “If you fail, try again. If you succeed, celebrate and laugh as hard as you can.”

“I enjoyed seeing how each accomplishment made the athletes so joyful,” said senior Meghan Cooke, a day student from Tappahannock. “The experience helped me appreciate my own accomplishments and realize that everyone is a winner.”

“The dedication and enthusiasm of the athletes inspired me to work to my potential and never give up,” said senior Anna-Beth Lawler of Sandy Point.

Other day students volunteers included Corbin Brooks ’09, Becca McKinley ’10, Betsy Joslyn ’10 and Abby Odell ’10. In addition to Chen, boarding student volunteers were Seh Young Kim ’09, Caroline Rollins ’09, Min Jin Kim ’09, Erica Houng ’10, and Linh Tran ’10. Farmer and Athletic Director Sue Haney accompanied the students on the trip. More than 100 Virginia Special Olympics Athletes participated in the games.