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Barbara Joers

President and CEO, Gillette Children’s
2026 USA Games Board Member

Barbara Joers leads Gillette Children’s with a dedication to advancing pediatric care and a commitment to empowering young patients and their families. Her extensive experience in managing complex medical environments is matched by her passion for strategic innovation and collaborative success. Under her guidance, Gillette Children’s focuses on groundbreaking advancements in musculoskeletal and neurological care, with a model that emphasizes patient-centered support and continuous process improvement. Barbara’s leadership fosters an environment where children receive not only medical care but a foundation for thriving futures.

My hopes and dreams for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are that every athlete and their guests experience Minnesota’s welcoming and inclusive environment, and that every athlete achieves the goals that they set for the USA Games and each feels that excitement of achievement!

Barbara’s connection to Special Olympics runs deep, reflecting both personal values and professional mission. Growing up, she witnessed Special Olympics’ strides toward promoting abilities and inclusion through sports—a mission that resonates closely with her work at Gillette Children’s. Many of her adult friends are involved with the Games, and in her current role, she feels a profound alignment with the organization’s goals. For the 2026 USA Games, Barbara hopes each athlete and guest experiences Minnesota’s welcoming, inclusive spirit and that every participant achieves their goals, leaving the event with a true sense of accomplishment.

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