February 3, 2026 — Are you ready to brave the cold for a great cause? On Friday, Feb. 27, Marist University will host the Dutchess County Polar Plunge, where participants take a quick dip into icy water to support Special Olympics New York.

The high-energy fundraising event supports inclusive, Olympic‑style, coached sports programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. All students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of Marist University are invited to take part in the festivities.

“We’re incredibly grateful to partner with Marist University on our Polar Plunge event,” said Susanne O’Neil, Director of Development for the Hudson Valley Region. “This fundraiser is vital to our mission as it raises critical funds and awareness that directly support athletes with intellectual disabilities by providing year-round sports training and competition at no cost to them or their families/caregivers.”

To support its continued growth, Special Olympics New York is introducing a mobile plunge unit that allows the Dutchess County Polar Plunge to take place at multiple community locations over one weekend, including Marist University.

The mobile tank will be located in the McCann Center parking lot, with additional festivities inside the McCann Center.



Participants jumping into mobile plunge tank in previous Polar Plunges. Photos courtesy of Special Olympics NY. 

How to Participate

Anyone can participate in the Polar Plunge with a donation. Participants may register as individuals or create a team with friends, classmates, professors, or colleagues. Community members are encouraged to register in advance, although same-day registration will be available if needed. All participants must complete the required waivers before plunging.

“As Marist students, it’s important that we give back to our community,” said Gretchen Murphy ’27, North Road Communications Account Executive of Special Olympics New York. “With the first day of the Polar Plunge weekend taking place on our campus, we have a responsibility to show up and help raise awareness for this incredible organization and its dedicated athletes.”

What to Bring and Expect

Participants should bring their own towels and a change of clothes. Designated changing areas will be available on site.
The event will take place rain or shine. If Marist University is closed or operating on a delayed schedule due to severe weather, the event timeline may be impacted.

Fundraising Incentives and Prizes

Participants are encouraged to collect donations in advance to support Special Olympics New York.

• Raise $25 minimum to participate in the Plunge
• Raise $125 to participate and receive a 2026 Polar Plunge hoodie
• Raise $500 and register to jump all three days to join the Trifecta Challenge (All Trifecta participants earn a Polar Plunge finisher medal).

Funds raised through the Polar Plunge help provide year-round training, competition, and inclusive opportunities for athletes with disabilities, free of charge for the athletes, parents, or caregivers.

Event Details Recap

• Date: Friday, February 27, 2026
• Time: Same-day registration from 10 to 11:30 a.m.; plunge at noon
• Location: McCann Center parking lot
• Address: 3399 North Road, Poughkeepsie, New York

To register in advance or learn more, visit here.

For more information, contact Susanne O’Neil, director of development for Special Olympics New York, at soneil@nyso.org or 845-262-6011. To learn more about the Special Olympics polar plunge, visit here.