St.
John’s
track-and-field star
Stephanie Barnes ’13C witnessed Barack Obama’s taking the oath
of office in Washington, D.C., as part of a select group of
students from around the world chosen to attend the 57th
Presidential Inauguration in January.
“It was an amazing experience — being able to see President
Obama speak live at the inauguration was incredible,” said Barnes.
“Words can’t express how excited I was. There were people from all
over the world that were there to witness this, and I was so happy
to be there right in the center of the action.”
Barnes attended the inauguration as part of the Collegiate
Presidential Inaugural Conference. More than 900 students from
around the world were selected for this annual nonpartisan event.
In addition to seeing the inauguration, participants attend five
days of presentations, keynote speakers and opportunities to meet
political leaders.
In addition to seeing President Obama speak live, Barnes
attended speeches by influential public leaders including political
commentator James Carville and the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.
Shaking Jackson’s hand was “breathtaking,” Barnes said — the most
memorable part of her trip besides her trip to the Martin Luther
King, Jr., National Memorial.
Now in her senior season of track and field, Barnes has competed
in the long jump and triple jump for the Red Storm. Along with
teammate
Rikka Lovely ’13CPS, she also serves as Co-President of the
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C.).
“We are very pleased to have Stephanie attend the inauguration
festivities and represent St. John’s and our program at the
historic event,” said
Jim Hurt, Track and Field Coach. “It was especially fitting for
her to attend the swearing in of President Obama as Co-President of
S.A.A.C.”
Barnes will join her teammates for the Metropolitan
Championships on Friday, January 25, at the New York City
Armory.