Dawn Harper, the 2008 Olympic gold medal winner of the 100 meter hurdles, is one neat lady. Yesterday the City of East St. Louis honored her with a parade through the city, showering this gifted athlete with well-deserved accolades including naming October 6 as Dawn Harper Day in the state of Illinois.

After meeting her briefly, I can see what makes this young lady so successful. She is driven, passionate and enjoys giving back to her community. I know we have not heard the last of her both on and off the track.  Part of what impressed me about Dawn, who was born and raised in East St. Louis, is she never forgot where she came from. Her special gift, beside being an accomplished athlete, is that she wants to use her success to encourage other children to dream and set goals of their own. It seems accomplishing great things is only part of what makes her happy - sharing and encouraging others to do the same completes her sense of accomplishment.

Please watch my video.

Also, please take a look at the Post-Dispatch photographer Christian Gooden’s slideshow.