- August 22, 2025
- DawnRatte
- No Comments
Meet Jacqueline Gladu!
What team do you participate on?
I have been part of the South County Stingrays since 2022.
What sports do you compete in?
I compete in bowling. I have been bowling since I joined a youth bowling league over 10 years ago, so I appreciate the chance that Special Olympics gives me to compete in this sport. In the past I had also participated in Unified basketball and Unified volleyball through the Special Olympics Schools program. I also recently had an opportunity through Special Olympics to learn to play pickleball, and I hope to be able to play it more in the future.
Where did you go to school?
I graduated from South Kingstown High School in 2022. I am currently attending the South Kingstown Transition Academy.
Do you have a job? If so, tell us about it.
I work at Lakeside Nursing and Rehabilitation Center as a dietary aide. I refill the snack tray, ice cooler, and refrigerator. I load the dinner in a truck to be served to the residents, do dishes, and occasionally make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I also assist nurses and residents when they need something from the kitchen and answer the kitchen phone. My favorite part of the job is the fact that I have a lot of good coworkers. They make the job enjoyable.
Why did you choose to participate in the Athlete Leadership University (ALU)?
I chose it so I can improve my leadership skills and have a college experience.
What have you accomplished through your involvement with ALU?
Through ALU, I have become a lot more involved in Special Olympics. I have met a lot of people and made a lot of new friends. I have had some volunteer opportunities such as Truck Day at URI and the ALU Open House. I look forward to participating in many more volunteer opportunities as they arise.
What do you enjoy doing for fun?
I enjoy spending time with my friends, especially bowling and playing games. I also like going on vacation. My favorite vacation destinations are amusement parks. I’m a bit of a coaster enthusiast.
Is there anything else about yourself that you would like to share?
Special Olympics has helped me to grow as a person and to realize that there are other people like me who have my type of experience. I have made many friends and have had the opportunity to participate in different activities that would not have been possible without Special Olympics.
The Athlete Spotlight Series
The Athlete Spotlight series shines a light on remarkable individuals from Special Olympics Rhode Island who are either currently enrolled in or have successfully completed our Athlete Leadership University program. These inspiring athletes undergo comprehensive leadership training, acquiring both knowledge and skills. Through hands-on experiences in roles of responsibility, they collaborate with leaders who do not have intellectual or developmental disabilities, contributing to the development of inclusive environments. Join us in celebrating these dedicated individuals and their impactful journey within our community!