Jason Robinson, Class of 2021, has faced many obstacles and challenges for someone so young. But – he has refused to let those hurdles affect his dreams, goals and the way he takes on life.
On June 11, Jason, who has Spinal Segmental Dysgenesis, spoke to third and fourth grade students and then fifth and sixth grade students outside on the track/football field about persevering, and not letting his physical disability slow him down. 
In addition to his strong academic record and past participation in several school clubs and organizations, Jason is an accomplished wheelchair athlete and competed on the Varsity Track & Field team and narrowly missed qualifying for the 2021 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. In 2019, he was named a U.S. Paralympics Track & Field High School All-American in the 100m, 800m, 1500m and 5000m – the first time he was named an All-American in four events. At the 2019 New York State Track & Field Championships, he placed first in the 800m, 1600m and 3200m wheelchair races, setting a new personal record in each event. He also won the 1600m and 3200m races in 2018.
While Jason is motivated by his own success, helping others with a disability is perhaps even more rewarding. In 2013, Jason and his family started the JRob Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that provides kids with adaptive sports equipment. They started the organization to spread a message of perseverance and inclusion, and demonstrate people with disabilities can be athletes, too.
“I think it is extremely important to encourage kids with disabilities to chase their dreams no matter how hard they may be,” said Jason, who serves as vice president of the JRob Foundation. “Yes, a disability may have its challenges and obstacles to overcome, however, there are always ways to adapt to the situation and conquer the challenge ahead of you. Hopefully, by encouraging kids with disabilities to try everything and not let anyone stop them, it will help change the image of someone with a disability from someone who is helpless to someone who is just like everyone else.”
After sharing his story, Jason, who was joined by his mom, showcased racing wheelchairs purchased by the JRob Foundation. Some lucky students had the chance to try out the racing wheelchairs on the track. At the end, students had the opportunity to ask Jason questions.
Jason will be attending the University of Illinois in the fall to major in bioengineering, with the goal of becoming a bioengineer. He plans to remain active in our local community through the JRob Foundation by teaching elementary and middle school students about adaptive sports and sharing his message of perseverance and the importance of inclusion.
Thank you, Jason!