Special Olympics Washington is excited to announce a new era of leadership with Denny Eliason stepping into the role of Board Chair. With a distinguished background spanning both business and nonprofit sectors, Denny brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for fostering inclusivity and empowerment. His alignment with our mission promises a future filled with innovation and positive change.

Denny has been involved with Special Olympics Washington as a volunteer since 1996, including a time as Board Chair in the early 2000s. His firm, Alliances Northwest, represented Special Olympics Washington on a volunteer basis from 1996-2021 on legislative matters in Olympia, including the creation and permanent authorization of our enhanced raffle.

Denny’s commitment to diversifying our funding base stands as a cornerstone of his vision for the organization. By strengthening our financial foundation, we can ensure sustained growth and impact across all facets of our programs and initiatives. His strategic focus on building new relationships, particularly in expanding our Unified Champion Schools program statewide, reflects his dedication to expanding the reach and impact of Special Olympics Washington.

Moreover, Denny’s anticipation of the evolution of our Alliance for Inclusive Health program and his commitment to fostering relationships with tribal communities underscore his comprehensive approach to advancing our mission across diverse communities.

When asked about his aspirations for the upcoming year, Denny highlighted several key areas:

 

  1. Diversification of Funding: Strengthening the organization’s financial base to support sustained growth and impact.
  2. Building New Relationships: Expanding partnerships and growing programs like the Unified Champion Schools initiative.
  3. Evolution of Programs: Watching how programs like the Alliance for Inclusive Health evolve to better serve our community.
  4. Tribal Relationships: Deepening engagement with tribal communities across the state.

 

What truly inspires Denny about Special Olympics Washington are the athletes, whose resilience, determination, and joy leave an indelible mark on everyone they encounter. He also recognizes the vital role played by coaches and staff whose commitment and professionalism drive the organization’s success.

In bidding farewell to outgoing Board Chair Kelly Campbell, Denny expressed deep gratitude for her leadership and mentorship. Kelly’s thoughtful attention to detail and steadfast dedication have elevated the board’s effectiveness and enriched the organization as a whole. While stepping into her new role, Kelly’s continued presence on the Board ensures a seamless transition and ongoing guidance for the organization.

As we embark on this exciting journey under Denny’s leadership, Special Olympics Washington invites everyone to join us in welcoming him as our new Board Chair. Together, we look forward to advancing our mission of empowerment, inclusion, and acceptance for all.