The start of 2025 marks the beginning of a new chapter for Special Olympics Minnesota. After two decades of dedicated service, Dave Dorn has retired from his position as President and CEO. In his place enters a familiar face from Special Olympics Minnesota staff: Bill Fish.

Bill’s career has been shaped by family, community and a steadfast commitment to the inclusion revolution. He started his journey over 30 years ago at Special Olympics Wisconsin where he worked as an Area Director for 13 years, later becoming Development Director. In Wisconsin, Bill honed his skills in leadership and fostering partnerships. He planned and executed many sports competitions, assisted with program initiatives and led fundraising efforts. In just his first few years, he fell in love with the Special Olympics movement and the people who are a part of it.

In 2003, Bill joined the team at Special Olympics Minnesota as the Vice President of Development. “It’s hard to believe I’ve been with SOMN more than 20 years,” Bill reflects. “What a ride!” In his time leading development and fundraising, Bill has raised $120 million for the organization, a 364% increase from 2003 to 2025. One of his most impactful contributions was co-developing the concept for the freshwater Polar Plunge, alongside colleagues Kerry Gloede and Onalaska Chief of Police Randy Williams. First launched in Wisconsin and later brought to Minnesota, the Polar Plunge has become SOMN’s largest fundraiser and a transformative model for Special Olympics programs nationwide.

Over the years, Bill has made more cherished memories than he can count. From witnessing athletes’ triumphant moments on the field to hearing heartfelt stories from families about the transformative impact of Special Olympics, his experiences have become the cornerstone of his passion. He especially loves that Special Olympics goes beyond the playing field.

“I think all of our programs are so important, especially Athlete Leadership,” he shares. “Seeing our Global Messengers deliver inspiring speeches is one of my favorite thing. Their words capture the essence of what makes this movement so special. I’m always impressed and inspired by this community!”

Bill was born in Livorno, Italy, while his father served in the military. Eventually, his family settled on the east side of St. Paul, where he attended Johnson Senior High School—a public school he proudly notes is now a Unified Champion School.

Bill’s proudest accomplishment is his family. “My family is my greatest joy,” he says. For the past 21 years, he has called Hudson, Wisconsin, home, sharing a wonderful life with his wife, Mary Jo, and their four children: Elizabeth, twins Nick and Caitlin, and Madeline.

His daughter Caitlin holds a special place in his heart. Caitlin has cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability, and she is the cornerstone of the Fish family.

“Our family has been especially fortunate to have our daughter Caitlin as our rock. Caitlin has cerebral palsy, an intellectual disability, uses a wheelchair and is non-verbal, but she communicates in her own unique ways,” says Bill.

“She is the most wonderful person in the world. She has a beautiful smile that lights up a room and is a true joy to be around. Like any family, we’ve faced our ups and downs, but we focus on living life to the fullest, navigating the bumps in the road as they come”

Bill’s family philosophy is a big part of the inspiration that Bill brings to Special Olympics Minnesota: embracing the mission to its fullest extent, while navigating challenges as they come.

As he steps into his new role as President and CEO, Bill brings not only decades of experience but also a vision of hope and ambition. Inspired by the leadership of his predecessor, Dave Dorn, Bill aims to broaden SOMN’s reach, ensuring more individuals with intellectual disabilities experience the transformative power of inclusion.

“Dave taught me how to balance a business mindset with the integrity of our mission,” Bill reflects. “His leadership set a foundation that I’m honored to build upon.”

Looking ahead, Bill’s aspirations are big. “We have an incredible opportunity to elevate our programs and expand our impact as we prepare for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games here in Minnesota,” he says. “Together, we will enhance accessibility, strengthen community engagement and ensure financial health to sustain our mission for generations to come.”

Bill’s leadership is led by his love for the incredible SOMN community. “The future is bright for Special Olympics Minnesota,” Bill says with a smile. “I’m excited to listen, learn and lead with care as we embark on this next chapter together.”

Learn more about SOMN’s transition to a new President/CEO