Special Olympics Executive and Leadership Team

Adam Germek, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. Overseeing all functional areas, Germek ensures the effective execution of programs that provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships and driving initiatives that expand the reach and impact of Special Olympics worldwide. By aligning departmental efforts, Adam Germek strengthens the organization's commitment to inclusion and empowers participants through sport. The President & Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on advancing the mission and enhancing the lives of athletes across all regions.

Barry Coats, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, spearheads strategic planning and operational oversight for the organization. Coats directs the implementation of programs designed to offer consistent sports training and competitive opportunities to individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This executive position involves cultivating key relationships and advancing projects that broaden the scope and influence of Special Olympics globally. Through coordinated departmental actions, Barry Coats reinforces the organization's dedication to inclusivity and enhances participant empowerment via athletic engagement. The President & Chief Executive Officer's primary objective is furthering the Special Olympics mission and improving athlete well-being across diverse geographical areas.

Jennifer Haines, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, leads the organization's strategic direction and operational management. Haines guides the development and execution of programs that deliver ongoing sports training and athletic events for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This critical role encompasses building strategic alliances and promoting initiatives that extend the presence and impact of Special Olympics internationally. By synchronizing the efforts of various departments, Jennifer Haines upholds the organization's core values of inclusion and enhances the empowerment of athletes through sports. The President & Chief Executive Officer is dedicated to advancing the Special Olympics mission and elevating the experiences of athletes across all operational spheres.

George Hergenhahn, the Chief Financial Officer at Special Olympics, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. Hergenhahn oversees the organization's budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and the optimal allocation of resources to support sports programs for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This position involves managing investments, financial controls, and compliance to sustain the long-term viability of Special Olympics. By maintaining strong financial health, George Hergenhahn enables the expansion of training and competition opportunities. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic financial oversight is crucial for the organization's continued growth and impact.

Derek Cain, the Chief Operating Officer at Special Olympics, manages the day-to-day operational functions and ensures efficient program delivery. Cain oversees the execution of sports training and competition schedules, guaranteeing that athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities receive consistent opportunities. This role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining processes to support the organization's global mission. By driving operational excellence, Derek Cain enhances the effectiveness of Special Olympics programs and supports the development of athletes. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational integrity across all activities.

Kathy Wilson, the Office of the Chief Operating Officer and President and Managing Director, Special Olympics Africa at Special Olympics, leads operational initiatives and regional management for the African continent. Wilson directs the implementation of sports programs and training for athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities across Africa, ensuring alignment with global standards. This dual role involves overseeing regional operations and driving strategic growth within the African market. By focusing on localized program delivery and stakeholder engagement, Kathy Wilson enhances the impact of Special Olympics in Africa. The President and Managing Director's leadership is vital for expanding access and opportunities for athletes throughout the region.

Audrey Steinhagen, the Volunteer Special Olympic Association President at Special Olympics, leads a specific local association, driving its mission and operations. Steinhagen oversees the organization and execution of sports training and events for local athletes with intellectual and physical disabilities, fostering community engagement. This volunteer leadership role involves mobilizing resources and volunteers to support program activities and participant development. By championing the Special Olympics values at the grassroots level, Audrey Steinhagen ensures that local athletes have access to enriching sports experiences. The Volunteer Special Olympic Association President's dedication is fundamental to the success of the organization's community-based initiatives.

Ayman Wahab, the Regional President, Middle & Africa (East, North) at Special Olympics, directs strategic operations and program expansion across key territories. Wahab oversees the delivery of sports training and competition opportunities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities within the Middle East and North and East Africa regions. This leadership position involves cultivating regional partnerships and driving initiatives that enhance athlete participation and organizational reach. By ensuring effective regional management, Ayman Wahab strengthens Special Olympics' presence and impact in these vital areas. The Regional President's focus is on advancing the organization's mission and empowering athletes across diverse cultural landscapes.

Meaghan Moriarty, the Special Olympics Young Athlete Club President at Special Olympics, leads initiatives focused on the youngest participants. Moriarty oversees the implementation of the Young Athletes program, designed to introduce sports skills and foster social development for children with intellectual and physical disabilities. This role involves coordinating activities and engaging families to ensure a positive and inclusive early sports experience. By focusing on foundational development, Meaghan Moriarty contributes to the long-term engagement of athletes within the Special Olympics movement. The Young Athlete Club President's efforts are crucial for nurturing future generations of athletes and promoting early inclusion.

Drake Turrentine, the Chief Legal Officer & Secretary at Special Olympics, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees corporate governance. Turrentine manages all legal affairs, ensuring compliance with regulations and safeguarding the organization's interests as it provides sports programs for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This executive role involves advising on legal strategy, risk management, and policy development. By maintaining legal integrity, Drake Turrentine supports the smooth operation and ethical conduct of Special Olympics globally. The Chief Legal Officer & Secretary's expertise is essential for navigating complex legal landscapes and protecting the organization's mission.