The Virgin Islands Education Department’s Eugene Farrell represented the U.S. Virgin Islands at the 66th International Session for Young Olympic Ambassadors in Ancient Olympia, Greece, after being selected by the Virgin Islands Olympic Committee, a press release announced.
Farrell, a program assistant with VIDE’s Division of Sports & Athletics, participated in the June 6-18 program alongside emerging leaders from around the world to study the principles of Olympism and ethical leadership in sports, according to the press release.
“This experience reinforced my belief that education extends beyond the classroom. As a representative of the Virgin Islands Department of Education’s Division of Sports & Athletics, I look forward to applying what I learned to help develop student-athletes through leadership, character, and the Olympic values, inspiring them to succeed both in school and in life,” Farrell said.
According to the release, this year’s session focused on inclusion, integrity and responsibility for athletes while exploring topics including safeguarding athletes, equity, ethical leadership and the values of the Olympic Movement.
VIDE Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington said Farrell’s selection reflects the department’s commitment to developing leaders through sports and education.
“His participation reflected our department’s commitment to developing leaders who understand the transformative power of sports and education. We were proud to see him represent the U.S. Virgin Islands on this international stage, and we look forward to the positive impact his experience will have on our student-athletes and school communities,” Wells-Hedrington said.
Farrell’s participation supports the department’s efforts to promote leadership, sportsmanship and lifelong learning among student-athletes throughout the territory, the release stated.
