By Sharnya Duncan

Special education junior Barb Jackson’s sister has influenced her so much, she wanted other people to feel the positive impact people with intellectual disabilities can have.

“The reason my major is special education and the reason I wanted to put on this event is because my sister has had such an influence on my life and has given me such a positive outlook and I wanted other people to see that as well,” Jackson said.

Jackson helped organize the UK CATS Dance on Friday in the Student Center Grand Ballroom. More than 115 people with intellectual disabilities and 175 volunteers were in attendance.

During the dance, a UK student escorted each participant. The participants took part in face painting, the cakewalk and got to meet UK athletes. For some attendees, one thing was more exciting than anything: dancing.

Jackson hopes it will become an annual event and said it gives people who may not have the opportunity to go to college a good experience.

“Some of the participants won’t get to attend college,” Jackson said. “This dance gives them a chance to experience a little piece of it.”