Put Them In, Coach: Building Confidence Through Full-Court Inclusion

Description:
This presentation explores the power of inclusion through the lens of sport, storytelling, and community impact. Drawing from my work with Special Olympics Kansas and my experiences as a coach and author of my children's book, "Becoming Confident", I will share how creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities builds confidence, leadership, and belonging. Attendees will leave with tangible ways to foster inclusion in their own communities and understand why “putting them in” creates life-changing moments for everyone involved.

Bio:
Katelyn Andrist is a Special Event Coordinator for Special Olympics Kansas, a five-time Unified Special Olympics Coach, and the author of the award-winning children’s book "Becoming Confident." A Wichita native and K-State graduate, she has dedicated over a decade to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sport, literacy, and advocacy. Katelyn is a 2024 Presidential Volunteer Service Award Lifetime Achievement recipient and a Top 4 Finalist for the 2024 Remarkable Woman of Kansas. Through her platform, “Put Them In, Coach: Full-Court Inclusion,” she works to create opportunities that build confidence, leadership, and belonging across communities.