Special Olympics Executive and Leadership Team

Jennifer Haines, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. Haines oversees the execution of programs designed to empower individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities through year-round sports training and competition. This leadership role involves fostering partnerships to expand the reach of Special Olympics initiatives, ensuring access to athletic opportunities across diverse communities. Haines drives the mission to create a more inclusive world by promoting the physical, social, and emotional development of participants. The strategic vision set by Haines guides the organization's efforts to build confidence and celebrate the abilities of every athlete. By championing the values of Special Olympics, Haines ensures the continued growth and impact of its vital work worldwide.

Adam Germek, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of the organization's global mission. Germek is responsible for advancing the core objectives of providing sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This involves cultivating key relationships with stakeholders and ensuring the sustained growth of Special Olympics programs. Germek drives initiatives that enhance participant engagement and promote a culture of inclusivity and empowerment. The leadership provided by Adam Germek ensures that athletes receive consistent training and competitive experiences, fostering their development and well-being. By focusing on innovation and outreach, Germek strengthens the organization's impact and its commitment to creating a more accepting world.

Barry Coats, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Special Olympics, leads the organization's strategic vision and operational framework. Coats directs the expansion of sports programs that serve children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities, ensuring year-round engagement. This executive role involves cultivating global partnerships and resource development to support athlete participation. Coats drives the implementation of policies and initiatives that uphold the Special Olympics mission of inclusion and empowerment. The leadership of Barry Coats ensures that athletes have access to quality training and competitive events, fostering their personal growth and athletic achievement. By focusing on sustainable growth and community impact, Coats strengthens the organization's ability to reach more individuals worldwide.

James Barbee, the Chief Financial Officer at Special Olympics, directs the organization's financial strategy and fiscal management. Barbee oversees budgeting, financial planning, and reporting to ensure the sustainable operation of sports programs for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This critical role involves managing financial resources to support global initiatives and maximize program impact. Barbee drives financial accountability and transparency across all levels of the organization. The financial stewardship provided by James Barbee ensures the integrity and long-term viability of Special Olympics. By maintaining sound financial practices, Barbee enables the organization to continue its mission of providing year-round athletic opportunities worldwide.

Matthew Aaron, the Chief Operating Officer at Special Olympics, manages the day-to-day operational functions critical to delivering sports programs for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Aaron oversees the efficient execution of training and competition schedules across various regions, ensuring seamless delivery of services. This role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining processes to maximize participant engagement and program effectiveness. Aaron drives operational excellence by implementing best practices in program management and logistical coordination. The operational oversight provided by Matthew Aaron ensures that athletes consistently receive high-quality experiences. By focusing on efficiency and scalability, Aaron supports the organization's mission to expand its reach and impact globally.

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 tailored to the needs of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities across Africa. This significant role involves fostering local partnerships and ensuring the effective delivery of training and competition opportunities. Wilson drives the expansion of Special Olympics' presence and impact throughout Africa, promoting inclusivity and athlete development. The leadership provided by Kathy Wilson ensures that athletes in Africa benefit from consistent, high-quality programming. By focusing on regional growth and operational efficiency, Wilson strengthens the organization's mission across the continent.

Samvel Artenyan, the President, Specia Olympics (Armenia) at Special Olympics, leads the organization's operations and strategic development within Armenia. Artenyan directs the provision of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities in the region. This key position involves building local support networks and ensuring program accessibility for all participants. Artenyan drives the mission of Special Olympics by fostering an inclusive environment and celebrating athlete achievements. The leadership of Samvel Artenyan ensures that Armenian athletes have consistent opportunities to participate and grow through sports. By focusing on regional impact and community engagement, Artenyan strengthens the organization's presence and mission in Armenia.

Danely Cruz, the Co-President at Special Olympics, shares leadership responsibilities for the organization's strategic initiatives and operational oversight. Cruz collaborates on directing programs that provide sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. This role involves contributing to the expansion of training and competition events, ensuring broad participant access. Cruz drives efforts to enhance the athlete experience and promote the values of inclusion and sportsmanship. The collaborative leadership provided by Danely Cruz supports the consistent delivery of high-quality programming. By working with other leaders, Cruz helps advance the Special Olympics mission to create a more accepting world through sports.

Kristina Tan, the President of Unified BSM at Special Olympics, leads initiatives focused on fostering unified sports and engagement within the BSM community. Tan directs the development and implementation of programs that integrate individuals with and without intellectual disabilities in sports activities. This role is crucial for promoting inclusion and building cohesive teams. Tan drives the expansion of Unified BSM by creating opportunities for collaboration and shared athletic experiences. The leadership provided by Kristina Tan ensures that participants develop teamwork and social skills. By championing unified sports, Tan strengthens the Special Olympics mission of creating a more inclusive society through athletic participation.

Erin Zafian, the President at Special Olympics, oversees key strategic and operational aspects of the organization's mission. Zafian directs the implementation of sports programs designed to benefit children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities. This leadership position involves fostering partnerships and ensuring the effective delivery of year-round training and competition. Zafian drives initiatives that promote athlete development and celebrate their achievements. The focused leadership provided by Erin Zafian ensures that participants receive valuable athletic experiences. By contributing to program growth and outreach, Zafian supports the Special Olympics goal of creating a more inclusive and accepting global community.