HPU Students Co-Host Special Populations Christmas Event
Ragan Ellington, a senior psychology major with a special education minor from Winston-Salem, was pictured at center as she laughed and danced with community members and fellow HPU students.
HIGH POINT, N.C., Dec. 9, 2024 – High Point University students helped make the holidays brighter for community members with disabilities by creating crafts and dancing the night away at the annual ASPIRE Christmas Dance.
The student chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) co-hosted the special dance with the High Point Parks and Recreation’s ASPIRE (Adaptive Sports, Programs and Inclusive Recreation) unit on Dec. 3 at the Nathanael S. Morehead Recreation Center in High Point.
The well-loved tradition between HPU’s CEC and the community invites people to get into the holiday spirit, build friendships and enjoy a night of fun. Activities included dancing, making crafts, eating pizza, taking photos and enjoying a visit from Santa Claus. The student organization has co-hosted these community events for the past 17 years.
Norah Danner, co-president of HPU’s CEC, said being part of this program was one of the proudest accomplishments of her college academic career. Danner, an English major with a double minor in education studies and legal studies, will graduate in December 2025.
“I love the community we have created within our club and the connection we have formed with the community of High Point,” said Danner, who is from Lewisville, North Carolina. “It is always so much fun putting together these dances. When we see them come to life during the various holidays, it genuinely warms the heart. After graduating, I wish to attend law school and become a guardian ad litem. This connection with the community of High Point, especially with those of all ages, has only solidified how much I enjoy giving back to the communities I reside in and connecting with as many people as possible.”
The annual event is a way for HPU students to connect with, develop friendships and support individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities in the High Point community. The CEC consists of majors from across campus with a common interest in promoting awareness and providing support for individuals with disabilities
Claire Cassell, a graduate student in the special education master’s program who was president of CEC her junior year and co-president her senior year, has actively participated in every Special Pops Dance over the past four years.
“These events have allowed me to form meaningful and lasting friendships with community members, many of whom I see at each dance,” said Cassell, who is from Hingham, Massachusetts. “The joy and excitement they bring to these gatherings remind me of the profound impact of creating spaces where everyone feels valued and included. Being a part of this outreach has taught me that friendship knows no boundaries and that meaningful connections go beyond differences. These experiences have not only enriched my life but also shaped my perspective as a future educator. Engaging with individuals who show so much kindness, humility and genuine happiness has deepened my love for what I do. These dances have shown me how to foster inclusive environments for my future students to feel respected and supported. I am truly grateful for the opportunity I’ve had to work with all of these amazing people.”
ASPIRE and HPU’s CEC will provide similar activities on Feb. 11, 2025, as it co-hosts a Valentine’s Day event for community members.
“I believe these dances are important to bring a more inclusive environment for our participants,” said Stephanie Hedgecock, ASPIRE program coordinator.