‘Torch Run’ pep rally hosted at Penn College

Thursday, May 22, 2025

Photos by Rob Hinkal, social media specialist (plus additional images provided by Special Olympics Pennsylvania representatives)

The Special Olympics Flame of Hope is carried into the Penn College entrance by runners in the inaugural Williamsport Main Street Torch Run, held Wednesday.

Carrying on despite rain and chilly temperatures, the inaugural Williamsport Main Street Torch Run was a rousing success for participants and fans on Wednesday. Beginning at Lycoming College, the ceremonial run carried the Special Olympics Flame of Hope through Williamsport to Penn College, where runners were welcomed at the college’s entrance and at a pep rally held in the lobby of the Davie Jane Gilmour Center.

Celebrating local Special Olympics athletes who are preparing for the 2025 Special Olympics Pennsylvania Summer Games, set for June 5-7 in State College, the Torch Run was led by local law enforcement. Upon arrival at the pep rally (initially planned to be held outside but moved inside due to the inclement weather), the Special Olympics athletes, supporting runners and cheering fans were treated to food and fanfare, including music, T-shirts and giveaways.

Among the law enforcement participating were members of the Penn College Police, Williamsport Police, Pennsylvania State Police and the FBI. Penn College staff greeting the energetic entourage included President Michael J. Reed and Jennifer McLean, dean of students. Human services & restorative justice students in the HSJ Club were also on hand to lend their support.

Started in 1981 in Kansas, the Law Enforcement Torch Run is held throughout the country to support Special Olympics athletes and is also called the Main Street Torch Run, as the Special Olympics Flame of Hope is carried along a town’s main street to raise funds and awareness.

For more information on the Summer Games or ways to get involved with Special Olympics Pennsylvania, visit the nonprofit organization's website.

A rousing welcome by cheering fans along the entrance to Penn College's campus

A runner gives a "high five" to Melissa Rushefski, regional executive director, Special Olympics Pennsylvania-Susquehanna Valley Region, as Penn College Police Chief David C. Pletz applauds at left.

A sign points the way to the Davie Jane Gilmour Center, where a post-run pep rally promises warmth and celebration.

The lobby of the Davie Jane Gilmour Center offers sanctuary from rains and chilly temps.

Special Olympics athletes enjoy a photo op.

Among athletes holding the flame is Daniela Brandt, joined here by her father, Jeff, a retired, longtime cross-country coach at Danville Area High School.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in Kansas in 1981 and has spread across the country, often being called the Main Street Torch Run, as the Special Olympics Flame of Hope is carried along a town’s main street.

Inspiring signs

Penn College human services & restorative justice student Emily L. Fink (right), president of the HSJ Club, joins a guest named Kevin. Fink enjoyed playing the game, Giant Connect 4, with Kevin and friends.

Chief Pletz takes his turn with the torch ...

... and joins fellow officers from Penn College Police and Williamsport Police in a photo on the lobby staircase.

Among the special proceedings at the pep rally, a handmade quilt is presented to college alumnus Lester Loner (on left), longtime Special Olympics Pennsylvania coach.

One week ago, Loner (on right) was awarded the Annette K. Lynch Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his extensive contributions, and his plaque joined the pep rally festivities. Here, Rushefski holds the plaque and local athlete Jacob Carey tends the torch. (Carey captured two gold medals and one silver in bocce at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games.)