Ellyse Polhemus has kept herself engaged throughout her young life in incredible ways. In high school, she did Unified, which is a program that further develops and builds inclusive learning and social environments for all students. She’s now a freshman at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, through Special Olympics. She will receive a college degree even though her classes differ from those of most students.
Polhemus is involved through Athlete Leadership University (ALU). The organization was founded in 1969 upon the belief that people with intellectual disabilities, with the proper instruction and encouragement, can relish and benefit from participation in individual and team sports. It presents members who are Polhemus’ age with the opportunity to learn how to lead different athletes by coaching and planning out various activities.
Since eighth grade, Polhemus has played volleyball. She stopped for a couple of years to pursue a more dedicated participation in Special Olympics, but that doesn’t mean her time as a competitor has come to an end. The sports offered to participants range from basketball to flag football, so she’s found a way to come back to the sports she enjoys the most while also trying some new ones. The best part about guiding others when participating alongside them is the chance she gets to form meaningful bonds that last.
“Making new friends and connecting with others is what I like most about Special Olympics. I do other sports besides volleyball. Bowling is one that’s kind of hard for me, but I find fun in it—I find fun in everything, really,” she said.
Recently, Polhemus was awarded the Jan’s Spirit Award, an honor that is bestowed upon the most promising first-year athlete participating in Special Olympics. She was selected to receive the distinction over those who serve in a manner similar to the one she does in the State of Indiana. Being celebrated in such a way has made her realize the overall importance of incessantly continuing to aid others.
“I received the award for having the most input in classes. I would answer all questions, come with comments, and give it my all every time,” she said. “I wouldn't change how everything went with all of that. It has truly meant the world.”
Polhemus has a profound connection to individuals with special needs. In 2020, her older brother, Kyle, passed away from complications stemming from a disability of his. Since then, she has been inspired to ensure that his passing was not in vain, as she helped her father to start up a non-profit called Kyle’s Legacy. The focus is to assist those with disabilities and their families when issues arise because of nagging struggles. It’s really all about family, friendship, and moving forward. The community steps up with them, too. For example, the Notre Dame hockey team has provided its support for them and their message by conducting fundraisers like car washes.
Always appreciative of each moment she gets with friends, family, and strangers alike, Polhemus is a people person. One of her truest joys is spending time with anyone who’s willing to give some of theirs to her.
“I like to be with everybody. Talking to everyone makes me happy. We’ll watch the Macy's Day Parade this Thanksgiving, and that’s been a tradition for a while,” she said.
Polhemus is from Valparaiso. She admires the sense of camaraderie that circulates throughout the city. It’s the only place she’s ever lived, yet it’s the place where she is able to do what she loves most: help everyone with disabilities overcome all sorts of challenges.