David Evangelista will take over the operational leadership of Special Olympics International as CEO on January 1, 2026. He succeeds Mary Davis, who is retiring after ten years in this role and a total of 47 years of commitment to the movement.
David Evangelista is currently President of Special Olympics Europe Eurasia and has over 20 years of experience in various leadership roles within the movement. He brings a strong international perspective, profound expertise, and a deeply rooted conviction for inclusion and empowerment.
For Special Olympics Switzerland, this appointment is particularly welcome news. David Evangelista has maintained a close connection to Switzerland for many years. He has repeatedly visited Special Olympics Switzerland, including at the National Games in Haslital (2024) and St. Gallen (2022) or on the occasion of the Swiss Night during the World Games in Berlin (2023). Bruno Barth, Managing Director of Special Olympics Switzerland, comments on the appointment: “I am delighted that David, a friend of SO Switzerland, is once again taking on the position of CEO of Special Olympics International. Due to his current position, he is also very familiar with European culture. We look forward to working together towards the World Winter Games Switzerland 2029 .”
David Evangelista not only brings extensive experience in international development, partnerships, and sports diplomacy but also understands how to place the voices and perspectives of athletes at the center of his work – an approach that is gaining increasing importance worldwide at Special Olympics and also in Switzerland.
We warmly congratulate David on his new role and look forward to a shared future with him at the helm of our global movement.
Image: David Evangelista at the Swiss Night of the World Summer Games Berlin 2023, @WeArePepper
