Photo by Iñaki Esnaola
The following is an excerpt from the press release, “Special Olympics Announces David Evangelista as New Chief Executive Officer” detailing the appointment of David Evangelista as Special Olympics International’s President and Chief Executive Officer effective 1 January 2026.
[Washington, D.C. – 14 July 2025] The international Board of Directors of Special Olympics is pleased to announce the appointment of David Evangelista as the global movement’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026. Evangelista will succeed Mary Davis, who is retiring on 31 December 2025 after 10 years as President and Chief Executive Officer and 47 years of involvement with Special Olympics, including as a volunteer, coach, Program leader, Regional President, and head of Special Olympics World Summer Games Ireland 2003, marking the first World Summer Games outside the U.S.
“After a thorough search and succession planning process, the Board of Directors unanimously chose David Evangelista to succeed Mary Davis,” Tim Shriver, the Board’s Chair said. “We’re thrilled to have such a visionary and committed leader within our ranks and grateful that David accepted our invitation to lead at such a critical moment in our history where the power of inclusion and the joy of sport are more needed than ever. Special Olympics has benefitted from the extraordinary leadership of Mary Davis for almost 4 decades, and we’re all convinced that the movement will continue to grow and flourish with David taking over.”
“I’m humbled by the confidence of the Board and overwhelmed with pride and anticipation. Mary has been a game changer for our movement, and I hope to join with our athletes, volunteers, Board, and staff to build on her track record of powerful growth and impact in the years ahead.” – David Evangelista, Regional President & Managing Director, Special Olympics Europe Eurasia
