Global Leadership Team

Spotlight PA recognized Loretta Claiborne as a Local Hero for her lifetime of work and accomplishments with Special Olympics. The following is an excerpt from the article titled PA Local Heroes: The champion athlete advocating for people with disabilities:

Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, was the recipient of the 2026 Laetare Medal at University of Notre Dame’s 181st University Commencement Ceremony on May 17, 2026.

At Special Olympics, athletes are at the core of our leadership. Their voice and example guide the movement in every way. That’s why we are thrilled to announce Loretta Claiborne as our new Senior Advisor to the CEO, Athlete Experience.

At Special Olympics, athletes are at the core of our leadership. Their voice and example guide the movement in every way. That’s why we are thrilled to announce Loretta Claiborne as our new Senior Advisor to the CEO, Athlete Experience.

On a day full of inclusion, education and sport, Sports Illustrated covered the ceremony when Bush Hill Elementary School in Alexandria, VA was named an Unified Champion School by Special Olympics.

In a few short years, Switzerland will play host to the largest sport and philanthropic event in the world featuring 2,500 Special Olympics athletes and Unified Partners.

Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics, will receive the 2026 Laetare Medal at the University of Notre Dame’s 181st University Commencement Ceremony on May 17, 2026.

Download the TranscriptShe’s competed in 30 marathons, placing in the top 100 of the Boston Marathon twice. She’s earned her black belt in karate and completed triathlons. She knows the power of commitment and what it takes to, literally, go the distance. Special Olympics Chief Inspiration Officer Loretta Claiborne will do anything it takes to cross the finish line, and her unwavering advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities reflects that same determination.Read the Article

Special Olympics Chief Inspiration Officer Loretta Claiborne will do anything it takes to cross the finish line, and her unwavering advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities reflects that same determination.

[Washington, DC, USA - 22 January 2026] Special Olympics has issued a powerful global call to action, warning that the world is facing a critical shortage of teachers that threatens the future of millions of students, most critically, learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).