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Amy Murray is the Senior Vice President of Special Events for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Amy will utilize her over 25 years of experience as an event producer to design and develop all non-sport USA Games events, including the Opening Ceremony, Fan Zone, and many others during an action-packed Games week, kicking off June 20, 2026. With a passion for amplifying inclusion and celebrating diversity, Amy is dedicated to creating unforgettable moments that unite communities and showcase the extraordinary abilities of every individual involved. This unique role allows her to merge her expertise in large-scale event production with a mission that aligns deeply with her values.

Sulynnette Vega-Ledesma is a spirited Special Olympics Alaska athlete, sharing about 8 years of experience and dedication to the cause alongside her brother, Leonel. She loves what Special Olympics has brought to her life, crediting the people in the community with understanding her and helping her to grow as a person. Passionate about various sports, her favorites include snowboarding, athletics, and figure skating.

Homebased in Savage, Minnesota, Adam Hjerpe serves as the dedicated Board Chair of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, in addition to his roles as dad to Special Olympics athlete Steven, coach, and Unified partner. With an extraordinary background spanning almost 20 years and multiple leadership roles at UnitedHealth Group and now as Chief Operating Officer at Medica, Adam brings valuable expertise and a commitment to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games’ achievement of excellence.

Click below to read more about each member of the Council.

Lisa Noble has been an active participant in Special Olympics for 10 years, competing in basketball, Unified volleyball, tennis, athletics, and bocce. Her journey with Special Olympics has been transformative, helping her step out of her comfort zone, develop leadership skills, and embrace opportunities she never imagined possible. Lisa values the camaraderie and support within the Special Olympics community, where athletes uplift and inspire one another to achieve their best both on and off the field.

David Booth, an inspiring athlete and community advocate, serves as an Athlete Representative on the Board of Directors for the 2026 USA Games, bringing his dedication to the mission of inclusion and passion for sports to the forefront. Originally from North Dakota, David now lives in Richfield and is an active member of the Special Olympics Minnesota community, having been involved for the past five years and now serving on the board.

Shaun Linsey is a dedicated Special Olympics Texas athlete with nearly 13 years of involvement in the organization. Competing in a diverse range of sports such as golf, kayaking, sailing, cheerleading, volleyball, and tennis, Shaun finds immense joy in making new friends through sports. His passion lies in inspiring and encouraging fellow athletes, fostering team spirit, and recognizing everyone’s accomplishments.

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