southwestdairymuseum081512

Carolyn McKinney, Southwest Dairy Museum Director of Administration,
proudly exhibits the award from the Special Olympics.

Southwest Dairy Farmers Reconized
For Outstanding Service to Special Olympics

by: Bobby McDonald

"It's always nice to be recognized for something that you do," expressed Carolyn McKinney, Director of Administration at the Southwest Dairy Museum. "However, the participation in Special Olympics by our organization far, far outweighs any award we might possibly ever get. Our association for the past 16 years with the Special Olympics Program is one of the highlight of my year, when we go an provide support, dairy products, and help in any way that we can, in the states of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Missouri, Arkansas, and Kansas."

"When I became administrative director of the Dairy Museum, it was one of my first requests to become involved with the Special Olympics, because of my passion for the program," remembers McKinney. "And, my boss granted that request! So, I've been able to enjoy the great association with Special Olympics, see the joy on the faces of the children, and attend all of the state Special Olympics, each year. It's truly a joy beyond compare!"

And, at a recent Southwest Dairy Museum Annual Meeting in Arlington, it was McKinney and the Board of the Southwest Dairy Museum that were surprised when Special Olympics presented them with an award as an Outstanding Corporate Sponsor for 2011, and had nominated them for the same award for 2012, because of their many participating events.

Left to Right, David
DeJong, President of the Board of Directors for the SWDF, Susie McAlister,
Senior Development/Sponsorships for
Special Olympics Texas, Colby Bannister, Athlete and on the Board of
Directors for Special Olympics Texas, Carolyn McKinney, Director of
Administration for the SWDF and
Jim Hill, CEO and General Manager for the SWDF.

Last week's presentation was extremely memorable and special to Carolyn McKinney, as a young athlete, Colby Bannister, whom she'd become associated with, made the presentation to Southwest Dairy Museum. Colby, who has participated a number of years on the state level and is on the board for Special Olympics, won 1 Gold, 2 Silver, 2 Bronze, one 4th and one 5th. Gold was on High Bar. Silvers on Rings and Pommel Horse, Bronze on Floor and Parallel Bars, 4th All Around and 5th Vault. And, he was selected to go to a Reception at the home of the US Ambassador during home visit tonight. "Colby is just an outstanding young man, and exemplifies why I personally support the Special Olympics Program and am so glad to work for an organization that helps these outstanding individuals 'reach for the stars' in everything they do!" expressed Carolyn. "I'm truly blessed to be a part of this organization!"