Dear Friend,

Every so often, a leader comes along who not only carries a mission forward but also expands it, strengthens it, and infuses it with more heart than anyone thought possible.

For the last decade, that is exactly what my friend Mary Davis has done for Special Olympics as our fearless and visionary CEO. 

Mary is preparing to retire from her role as our CEO at the end of this year. It would mean so much to me if you’d join me in celebrating her extraordinary impact and leadership by signing her thank you card >>

Mary’s journey with Special Olympics began where many great stories of ours do: in the game! She started as a volunteer back in the 1970s, coached gymnastics in her local program, and never, ever stopped leading from the heart.  

She helped launch our first-ever Special Olympics European Games in 1985. She built a thriving national program in her home country of Ireland and made history with the 2003 Special Olympics World Games in Dublin. From 2004 - 2008, Mary worked as the chief executive of Special Olympics Ireland, and later served as Regional President of Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia from 2008 - 2016.  

For the past ten years as our CEO and 47 total years in the movement – including as a volunteer, coach, program leader, Regional President, and head of Special Olympics World Games Ireland 2003, Mary has led our global team with compassion, strength, and unshakable belief in our athletes – and in the promise and dignity of every person with and without intellectual disabilities. Mary lifts people and communities up, works tirelessly for inclusion, and never forgets the pure joy of the game.

Please take a moment today to leave a message of thanks and share in the celebration of my friend Mary Davis – someone who has given so much to this movement we all love.

With love and gratitude,

Tim Shriver
Chairman of the Board