David Evangelista Appointed as New CEO of Special Olympics International

Special Olympics Welcomes David Evangelista as New CEO



On July 14, 2025, Special Olympics International's Board of Directors proudly announced the appointment of David Evangelista as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026. This significant leadership transition comes as Mary Davis, the outgoing CEO, prepares for retirement after a remarkable 10-year tenure and an impressive 47 years of dedicated service to the organization and the special needs community. Davis’s contributions span from being a volunteer and coach to taking on numerous leadership roles, including her pivotal position as director of the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Ireland in 2003—the first games held outside the United States.

In a statement, Tim Shriver, Chair of the Board, expressed the enthusiasm shared among the board members regarding Evangelista’s leadership. He stated, "After a thorough search and succession planning process, the Board unanimously selected David to succeed Mary Davis. We are excited to have such a visionary and committed leader at a crucial moment in our history, where the power of inclusion and the joy of sport are more needed than ever. Mary has provided extraordinary leadership for nearly four decades, and we are confident that the movement will continue to grow and thrive with David at the helm."

Evangelista himself expressed his gratitude and readiness to lead, stating, "I am honored by the Board's confidence and overwhelmed with pride and excitement. Mary has been a key figure in our movement, and I look forward to working alongside our athletes, volunteers, Board members, and staff to build upon her legacy of tremendous growth and impact in the coming years."

Currently, David Evangelista serves as the President and CEO of Special Olympics Europe Eurasia, where he has skillfully managed program operations across 58 countries in Western, Central, and Eastern Europe, as well as Central Asia. His vast experience with Special Olympics spans over two decades, shaped by a family legacy that introduced him to the movement in his youth. Known for his deep commitment to inclusion and empowerment for people with intellectual disabilities, he has championed initiatives aimed at enhancing Special Olympics’ governmental relations, corporate partnerships, and the expansion and sustainability of state and national programs.

Among his numerous accolades, Evangelista is a member of the Center for Sport and Human Rights, sits on the Board of Directors of The Access Challenge, and has contributed to high-level sports diplomacy discussions for the European Commission. His extensive public speaking experience includes engagements at the United Nations and universities, where he addresses topics related to sports, international development, and disability policy.

Evangelista boasts an impressive educational background, holding a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the School of International Service at American University in Washington, D.C., as well as a Master’s degree in International Business and an Executive MBA from the Intercontinental University of Enterprise (UIE). His commitment to education extends to his role as an associate professor in International Relations and International Cooperation.

Shriver concluded his remarks by acknowledging the exceptional service provided by the search committee, composed of notable figures such as Anne Finucane and Kiera Byland, stating that these individuals, alongside the Executive Committee, will continue to guide the organization’s talent development and succession strategy into the future.

About Special Olympics


Founded in 1968, Special Olympics is a global sports movement dedicated to eradicating discrimination against individuals with intellectual disabilities. Through the power of sport, we foster acceptance across all levels of society and facilitate key programming in education, health, and leadership. With over four million athletes and Unified Sports partners, as well as a million coaches and volunteers in 200 countries, Special Olympics offers more than 30 Olympic-style sports and nearly 50,000 games and competitions annually. Stay connected with us on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. For more information, visit SpecialOlympics.org.

Topics People & Culture)

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