04/23/2026
Two JFCrs, Connie Sheetz and Jennifer Bosley, had the opportunity to attend an exceptional event at Messiah University, featuring Olympic champion and speaker, Dominique Dawes
Messiah University President, Jon Stuckey, opened the evening with a warm introduction and video, setting the stage for an engaging and powerful talk.
Dominique Dawes then took the stage and immediately captivated the audience by sharing her journey - from starting gymnastics at age 6, becoming an Olympian at just 15, and competing in three Olympic Games.
She reflected on winning silver medals in 1992, claiming gold as part of the legendary Magnificent Seven in 1996, and retiring at age 24 after the Sydney Olympics.
One insight that resonated deeply: 𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣. She also spoke about teamwork in an individual sport, the importance of checking egos, and supporting one another to achieve collective success.
Dominique shared how her experiences shaped her life after competition - 30 years of public speaking, sports commentary, and founding Dominique Dawes Gymnastics Academy, built on values of kindness, safety, confidence, and character. Her candid discussion on athletic safety, and allowing children to fully experience life was especially impactful. She closed with a heartfelt reminder to be mindful of influences, stay grounded, and trust that God leads.
A sincere thank you to Messiah University for hosting such a meaningful event, and to Dominique Dawes for sharing her story with honesty, wisdom, and inspiration.
📸 Photos from the event below. thanks for the pictures, and for sharing what you learned Jen and Connie.
