Virtus extends its thanks to Prof Jan Burns as she announces retirement

After more than 17 years on the Governing Board, Prof. Jan Burns MBE has decided to step down from her role as Virtus Head of Eligibility.

In Jan’s own words, “it has been an extraordinary journey. Working alongside you, we have achieved so much and I am genuinely proud of what we have accomplished together. Although I am stepping back from this role, my commitment to sport for people with intellectual impairments remains as strong as ever. I will continue to champion this work through my other activities, particularly through research and education with the Virtus Academy.

Eligibility and Classification is now poised for its next exciting chapter. The remarkable growth in athlete numbers, the increasing engagement from International Federations, the expansion of national members, and the development of new competition classes all reflect the momentum you have helped create. It is a moment to celebrate how far we have come—and to embrace the opportunities ahead”.

On behalf of the Virtus Governing Board and staff and the thousands of athletes Jan has supported through eligibility development, Virtus President Robyn Smith thanked Jan for her invaluable time, significant contribution and expert advice within the organisation.

Jan joined the organisation at a critical time in Virtus’ history. Her leading role with others within the Virtus family to collaborate with the International Paralympic Committee to ensure that the eligibility gold-standard product was accepted and classification commenced will never be forgotten.

In 2012, Jan won the UK Research Council’s Gold Podium Research Award for her classification research for the London 2012 Games, and in 2015, she was recognised in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours list, receiving an MBE for her work. In 2023, Jan was appointed as chair of the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) Classification Compliance and Oversight Committee – a role she will continue, together with the Virtus Academy, which Jan was instrumental in launching in 2021. And in 2025, Jan was awarded the ‘Virtus Hall of Fame’ at the Virtus Awards for the outstanding work she has done in her role.

On behalf of everyone connected to Virtus – thank you for everything you have done, Jan and best wishes on your retirement from the Governing Board.