Special Olympics Delaware names new executive director
The board of directors of Special Olympics Delaware announced the appointment of David Halley as its new executive director.
A longtime Delaware resident, Halley was most recently executive director of the Middletown Family YMCA. Halley has extensive experience engaging and leading teams, doing fundraising and community outreach, and promoting excellence in sports and program operations.
“We are thrilled to welcome David to the Special Olympics Delaware community of athletes, coaches, families, friends, volunteers and sponsors,” said Katherine Dickinson, Special Olympics Delaware board president. “David’s professional credentials, team-oriented leadership style and strategic mindset will position Special Olympics Delaware for growth and continued excellence in the communities we serve for years to come.”
The mission of Special Olympics Delaware is to utilize sports training and athletic competition to give individuals with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship. Its purpose aligns completely with Halley’s professional background and interests.
“I’m excited to carry on the amazing work that Ann Grunert and Special Olympics are doing here in Delaware,” said Halley, a native of Bridgeton, N.J., who graduated from the University of Delaware. “This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work for an organization that aligns so well with my passions and experiences. I’m blessed to be selected as the next leader of this organization to serve individuals and families in our communities. I look forward to working with the board, staff, and volunteers to advance the mission and vision of Special Olympics Delaware for years to come.”
Halley replaces Grunert, who retired after 34 years in the position.
“On behalf of the entire board of directors, I thank Ann Grunert for her decades of service to Special Olympics Delaware and her steadfast dedication to our mission each and every day,” said Dickinson.
