LINN — Special Olympics Missouri Central Area Development Director Alex Jones said she was very happy with State Tech’s Polar Plunge last week.

“They did a great job,” said Jones, noting 45 plungers they raised over $6,000 for Special Olympics Missouri.

With an outdoor temperature of about 20 degrees, and water holding at about 30 degrees, it was not an event for the faint-of-heart. “It was pretty cold, but they were still excited to be there,” said Jones. “We cut over five inches of ice off Lake State Tech but that did not discourage them!”

The partnership between Special Olympics Missouri and State Tech began when the college built an outdoor torch and indoor cauldron for the State Games. “Their faculty wanted to continue our partnership and decided to host a Polar Plunge fundraiser,” said Jones. “I worked closely with their team to get this event planned out, and they really went above and beyond providing a great location, all the resources we needed, and recruiting individuals to plunge. The energy on campus was amazing.”

State Tech Marketing Director Brandon McElwain said he’s pleased with the growing relationship and knew this event would be well received.

“Dr. Strong likes to say that at State Tech, we always go big, so hosting a plunge at Lake State Tech felt like the perfect fit,” he said. “Seeing students, faculty, and staff take the plunge together was incredible, and I fully expect this to become an annual tradition ... one I’m proud to have helped start.”

Students in the Dental Assistant, Utility Construction, Electrical Distribution Systems, Auto Collision, Drafting and Design, Business Administration and more participated in the plunge, along with an administration team.

With support from the Linn Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office, Osage Ambulance District, and Scuba Adventure, Jones said she was happy to receive such great support to ensure the event was safe.

“We are excited to return in 2027 and make this event even bigger,” said Jones.