CONGRATULATIONS, DAVE!

After two decades of dedicated service, Dave Dorn is retiring as President & CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota. During his tenure, Dave has helped make Special Olympics Minnesota a leader within the Special Olympics movement. Under his guidance, the organization has become a pioneer in delivering high-quality programming and expanding the reach of its mission to promote inclusion and acceptance. Dave’s impact is immeasurable—he’s built a strong and resilient organization, created life-changing opportunities for athletes and fostered partnerships that will benefit Special Olympics Minnesota for years to come.

Reflecting on his time, Dave says, “It’s impossible to choose just a few favorite memories because every event, every season, and every year has been filled with remarkable moments. What stands out most is the incredible people I’ve had the privilege of meeting.” His unwavering passion for the athletes and their families, staff, volunteers, and supporters is evident to anyone who has interacted with him.

Dave’s leadership was instrumental in securing the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota—an achievement that will leave a lasting legacy for the state and organization. As he looks forward to spending more time with his family, including his wife, Katie, their seven children, and four grandsons, Dave plans to remain involved as a full-time volunteer.

We are so grateful for Dave’s vision, dedication and commitment to Special Olympics Minnesota! His influence and impact will be felt for generations to come.

SEND DAVE A MESSAGE

Send Dave a note of congratulations, gratitude and well-wishes as he embarks on a new chapter.

MEET OUR NEW CEO!

Bill Fish has been named the new CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota, bringing over 30 years of dedication, experience and passion for the mission. Bill’s journey with Special Olympics began in Wisconsin, where he spent 13 years building program initiatives and strengthening community partnerships. In 2003, he joined Special Olympics Minnesota as the Vice President of Development, where he played a key role in transforming the organization’s financial health and expanding its outreach.

Throughout his career, Bill has been inspired by the countless athletes, families, volunteers and supporters who make Special Olympics so special. His favorite memories include watching athletes succeed on and off the field and hearing the moving stories of transformation from athletes and their families. Bill’s unwavering commitment was most evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he led the team to develop innovative solutions to keep events like the Polar Plunge safe and engaging.

As CEO, Bill envisions a future where Special Olympics Minnesota reaches even more people with intellectual disabilities, providing life-changing opportunities for inclusion, growth, and achievement. His focus will be on enhancing program quality, improving accessibility and fostering community engagement. With the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games approaching, Bill is excited to elevate SOMN’s impact and ensure the organization continues to thrive. Bill will listen, learn and lead with care, building on a legacy of excellence while creating new possibilities for the future.

Bill Fish has been named the new CEO of Special Olympics Minnesota, bringing over 30 years of dedication, experience and passion for the mission. Bill’s journey with Special Olympics began in Wisconsin, where he spent 13 years building program initiatives and strengthening community partnerships. In 2003, he joined Special Olympics Minnesota as the Vice President of Development, where he played a key role in transforming the organization’s financial health and expanding its outreach.

Throughout his career, Bill has been inspired by the countless athletes, families, volunteers and supporters who make Special Olympics so special. His favorite memories include watching athletes succeed on and off the field and hearing the moving stories of transformation from athletes and their families. Bill’s unwavering commitment was most evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he led the team to develop innovative solutions to keep events like the Polar Plunge safe and engaging.

As CEO, Bill envisions a future where Special Olympics Minnesota reaches even more people with intellectual disabilities, providing life-changing opportunities for inclusion, growth, and achievement. His focus will be on enhancing program quality, improving accessibility and fostering community engagement. With the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games approaching, Bill is excited to elevate SOMN’s impact and ensure the organization continues to thrive. Bill will listen, learn and lead with care, building on a legacy of excellence while creating new possibilities for the future.

FAQS

Dave is excited to enjoy retirement! After 19 incredible years at Special Olympics Minnesota, Dave is looking forward to spending more time with family, serving Special Olympics Minnesota and the 2026 USA Games in a volunteer capacity and tackling new projects with his free time. The decision to make this transition now is intentional. With a new strategic plan in place and the 2026 USA Games approaching, Dave feels it’s important for a new leader to take charge—someone who can guide the organization through the Games and continue building on that momentum in the years that follow.

Dave will remain deeply committed to the Special Olympics mission, even in his retirement. He plans to stay involved as a “full-time volunteer” at events and competitions!

Bill Fish has been a key part of our leadership team for over 20 years. He started working at Special Olympics Minnesota in 2003 as the Vice President of Development. Prior to his time at SOMN, Bill worked at Special Olympics Wisconsin for 13 years where he served as an Area Director leading program initiatives and later as Development Director for four years, focusing on events and corporate partnerships. Bill grew up on the east side of St. Paul, and for the past 21 years his family has resided in Hudson, Wisconsin.

Bill will officially take the role of CEO on January 1, 2025. Bill has been working together with the Board of Directors and Dave Dorn to ensure that everything is in place for a successful transition.

Bill was selected by Special Olympics Minnesota’s 17-member Board of Directors. The selection process was thorough, and the Board felt it was important to find someone who understands the heart of Special Olympics and can continue to drive our organization forward. Read more in this memo from SOMN Board Chair, Dave Larson.

Bill is committed to the disability community and has experience working in the inclusion revolution for more than 30 years. He says, “I’ve seen firsthand what makes this organization special—the dedication, the passion and the commitment to making the world a more inclusive place for all.” He has a deep understanding of why the world needs Special Olympics, and he’s eager to continue growing the mission here in Minnesota!

Bill’s vision for Special Olympics Minnesota is simple: we must broaden our reach so more people with intellectual disabilities can experience the joy and community of our movement. Together with staff, athletes and community supporters, Bill wants to enhance the quality of our programs through improved accessibility, excellent customer service and strong community engagement. Additionally, maintaining financial health is crucial for SOMN’s long-term success, and it’s something that he has been focused on for more than 20 years in his role on the development team. Bill is excited to work together with this amazing community as we prepare for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games here in Minnesota. “We have an incredible opportunity to elevate everything we do and expand our impact!”

The board believes this transition will bring positive change and momentum to Special Olympics Minnesota staff and community members. While Dave will certainly be missed, Bill is planning on carrying his legacy of teamwork, transparency and innovation. We will carry our vision for a thriving and inclusive Minnesota forward, with Bill at the helm!

If you have additional questions, please send an email to [email protected] or call 612.333.0999.  We want to make sure everyone in the SOMN community feels informed and comfortable with the transition, so please don’t hesitate to reach out!
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