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Partners play a vital role in making the 2026 USA Games a world-class event.

Join us in creating an uplifting and unforgettable event that champions a more inclusive world!

Mary Horwath serves as the Chief Marketing Officer for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. With more than 35 years in the sports business, Mary is perhaps best known for her achievements at Rollerblade Inc., transforming a small hockey training product into a $100M+ global sports phenomenon. Her work is truly in a league of its own!

Kevin Quiring is the Chief Development Officer for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. With 28 years of experience as a Managing Director at Accenture, he excels in building relationships for growth. Kevin is a lifelong Minnesotan and avid hiker; beyond the boardroom, you’ll find him on scenic trails or exploring new adventures.

Dave Dorn holds the role of President/CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota, in addition to serving as an esteemed board member of the 2026 USA Games. As a lifelong Minnesotan and committed leader of the Special Olympics mission for almost 20 years, Dave was a driving force in bringing the 2026 USA Games to Minnesota.

Will Smith, a dedicated advocate and seasoned athlete, proudly serves as an Athlete Representative for the 2026 USA Games and Program/Development Specialist for Special Olympics New York. Hailing from Brewster, New York, Will has been an integral part of the Special Olympics community for an impressive 25 years, demonstrating his commitment not only as an athlete but also as an official, staff member, coach, and athlete leader.

Travis Anderson, a shareholder at Fredrikson & Byron, P.A., also serves as the Director and General Counsel for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, offering both his legal acumen and a commitment to inclusion. Travis’s connection to Special Olympics traces back to his high school years when he first volunteered, igniting a lifelong dedication to the cause. Over the past three decades, he has brought his passion to hundreds of Special Olympics events, leaving a profound impact on the community. His extensive involvement includes serving on the Board of Directors of Special Olympics Minnesota for six years.

Judy Vijums is the Chief Financial Officer for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, hailing from Cobalt Capital Partners. A lover of all things swimming and water-related, she is ready to “make a splash” with the 2026 USA Games and leave a lasting legacy in the state of Minnesota.

Christine (Christy) Sovereign is the Chief Executive Officer for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. As an executive on loan from Accenture, she brings 35 years of business and leadership experience coupled with a very personal story, having grown up alongside sister Katie, a distinguished Special Olympics athlete and Global Messenger.

Gwen Walz is the First Lady of Minnesota, a former English teacher and lifelong Minnesotan. She is a passionate advocate for educating Minnesota’s children and has spent her life working to build a more just and equitable world. From teaching at prisons and promoting criminal justice reform to advocating for the LGBTQ movement, Gwen’s desire to learn from and work with others to advance meaningful change is her guiding principle. She looks forward to bringing this unparalleled perspective and influence to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.