Imagine a dance with upbeat hits, limo rides, a red carpet, and more where teenagers and adults with special needs are celebrated as kings and queens—and are even “crowned” as such in a ceremony at the end of the night. This is what Night to Shine is all about. A prom-like experience with over 500,000 guests at over 600 churches in 56 countries since its launch, Night to Shine honors people with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Each year, many volunteers participate in helping make the event special. Included in these volunteers are some of our fellow Yellow Jackets.
Randolph-Macon alum Katie Dodge ‘24 explains their rationale for helping at the event. “My younger sister has Down syndrome and is involved in the community. She is a participant every year, and my mom often works on the planning committee. I have a lot of love for Night to Shine and the Richmond special needs community, and I’m always glad to share my time,” they said.
Whether it is a personal connection with individuals with special needs or solely enthusiasm for the cause, Randolph-Macon students put themselves to use at this large-scale event.
Both the women’s basketball and lacrosse teams were present at one of the many Night to Shine locations. The teams served on the red carpet of the event as “paparazzi,” cheering as each guest walked down the red carpet. Sydney Walsh ‘26 said. “To me, the most rewarding part of this experience was to see how happy all of the guests were as they walked the red carpet and got to have their moment! It was so awesome to see even the quieter guests put their fears aside and embrace being celebrated and cheered on.”
The red carpet is the time to shine for many guests. Each guest has the chance to be announced and has the option of having a loud or silent walk. However, being one of the “paparazzi” is not the only way RMC students volunteered at the event.
Jennifer Bradley ‘28 and Madison Anonick ‘24 volunteered as “buddies” and were each paired with a guest for the night. They accompanied their guests throughout all the different activities such as limo rides, karaoke, red carpet, and games.
Dancing is also a trademark of the Night to Shine experience for both guests and buddies. Many participants enjoy jumping on the dance floor or swaying to the music. If singing is more of their thing, karaoke is always a fun option. Guests can choose a favorite song to sing, bringing their talent and their personalities to the stage. As a buddy, one has the opportunity to experience all the fun right alongside them.
Anonick said, “Events like Night to Shine are so important for a multitude of reasons. People with disabilities deserve to be celebrated and have a chance to create meaningful memories alongside those with similar life experiences. I also think this event allows non-disabled folks to gain a better understanding of this community and relinquish previously held stereotypes.” Not only does each guest have their night to shine, but every year, RMC students walk away with a night to remember.
