Staff & Leadership | Special Olympics Missouri

“The right to play on any playing field? You have earned it. The right to study in any school? You have earned it. The right to hold a job? You have earned it. The right to be anyone’s neighbor. You have earned it.”

- Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder, Special Olympics.

We, the staff of Special Olympics Missouri, believe in the following guiding values, which are engrained in the way we think and act:

Accountability, Excellence, Integrity, Optimism, Unity

These beliefs guide our choices and define for us integrity and the right
course of action that bond us together as TEAM SOMO.

If you are looking to contact a specific staff member or a specific area,
select the "Staff" tab below to find who you are looking for.

Have a question, but aren't sure who to ask? Email us!

Staff

Board of Directors

Young Professionals Board

Job openings

Internships

Staff

Headquarters

Central Area

Kansas City Metro Area

Headquarters staff

Larry Linthacum

President & CEO

Jessica Anderson

Director of Administrative Services

Maci Arnold

Health Partnership Manager

Grace Davis

Program Assistant

Ken Enloe

Director of Human Resources

Norma Gilliland

Administrative Specialist

Carol Griffin

Health Partnership Director

Craig Hall

Director of Competition & Outreach

Kayla Hull

Multimedia & Athlete Leadership Manager

Jerry Kliethermes

Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer

Luke Lamb

Senior Program Director

Brian Neuner

Chief Development Officer

Zach Paul

Marketing & Communications Director

Derek Sandbothe

Campus Host & Athlete Leadership Assistant

Crystal Schuster

Senior Director of Community Development

Susan Shaffer

Director of Training

Makenna Szumigala

Accounting Specialist

Kelly Tannehill

IT Director

Grace Theroff

Campus Host

Emma Thomas

Grant Manager

Allen Tobin

Athlete Leadership Assistant

Greg Wingrath

Program & Volunteer Specialist

Central Area

305 Special Olympics Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone: 573-635-1660
Area webpage

Alex Jones

Development Director

Tim Schuster

Program Director

Kansas City Metro Area

KC Metro Area
9150 E 41st Ter, Suite 213
Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816-535-9610
Fax: 816-535-9611
Area webpage

North Area

702 Woodbine Road
St. Joseph, MO 64507
Phone: 816-233-6232
Fax: 816-233-0130
Area webpage

Mitch Curran

Program Director

Charlie Phillips

Office Assistant

Melody Prawitz

Development Director

Southeast Area

1625 N. Kingshighway
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Phone: 573-339-6733
Fax: 573-339-6370
Area webpage

Jen Rose

Program Coordinator

Penny Williams

Development Director

Scott Williams

Program Director

Southwest Area

PO Box 14463
Springfield, MO 65814
Phone: 417-306-9963
Area webpage

Haley Blevins

Development Director

Dick Jones

Program Assistant

Jesse Williams

Program Director

St. Louis Metro Area

2945 S. Brentwood
St. Louis, MO 63144
Phone: 314-961-7755
Fax: 314-961-0660
Area webpage

Jocelyn Diehl

Regional Program Director

Payton Harris

Unified Champion City Schools Specialist

Ben Johnson

Unified Champion Schools Manager

Kellen Wolters

Development Director

Board of Directors

The Special Olympics Missouri Board of Directors is responsible for setting the direction of the organization. They formulate and establish policies and oversee the President/CEO of the organization.

The Board also protects the assets and resources of the organization and develops goals to meet our financial needs to ensure the long-range financial stability of the organization. The Board members are independent voting members serving for a two-year term and can serve for four full consecutive terms.

Are you interested in joining the board of directors? Let us know!

Audrey Tully, Board Chair

Audrey Tully

Program Manager - Culture & Community, Microsoft
St. Louis

Audrey currently serves as Board Chair of Special Olympics Missouri, bringing unwavering dedication and an extensive background in empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports. As an ardent advocate for inclusion and equality, Audrey champions the organization's mission while honoring diversity, fostering unity, and leading through empowerment. In her role as Program Manager of Culture & Community at Microsoft, a major Special Olympics partner, Audrey is able to share in her love for the movement with her colleagues across the world and takes great pride in working for a company that prioritizes inclusion and accessibility for all.

A dedicated Special Olympics volunteer since 2008, Audrey has served athletes in various capacities, including as a coach, volunteer program coordinator, games management team member, Athlete Leadership Program mentor, and fundraising committee member. Her volunteer efforts have extended to national and international stages, including the 2015 World Summer Games, the 2017 World Winter Games, and the 2018 USA Games.

Audrey was recognized as the St. Louis Outstanding Volunteer of the Year in 2016 and a Special Olympics USA Games "Game Changer" in 2018. She finds her ALPs mentoring experience most rewarding, as the program offers athletes invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth through an inclusive platform for development, influence, and excelling in meaningful roles.

Audrey resides in St. Louis with her husband and fellow SOMO & LETR volunteer, Colin Tully, and their dog Taylor.

John Harding, Vice Chair

John Harding

Attorney, The Limbaugh Law Firm
Cape Girardeau

John Harding is a Criminal Defense Attorney with The Limbaugh Law Firm in Cape Girardeau since 1993.

John earned his BSA from the University of Missouri – Columbia and his JD from the University of Missouri – Kansas City.

John has served on several boards going back to 1987 with organizations such as the Leukemia Society, Team in Training, St. Jude’s Alzheimer’s Association and Zero Prostate Cancer.

He has been a member of the Community Counseling Board for over 20 years and is the past president. Through his involvement with the Community Consoling Board, he has experience in running events and raising money.

John is originally from Kirksville, MO. Prior to moving to Cape Girardeau in 1992, he worked in Kansas City and St. Louis.

John is looking forward to learning more about Special Olympics Missouri, serving on the board of directors and becoming more involved with the movement.

Briana Haines, Secretary

Briana Haines

Kansas City

Briana works for KPMG as a Service Leader and Manager for the National Design, Proposal, and Production Services (NDPPS) department. She leads a dynamic creative team in various office locations across the firm, including Kansas City, St. Louis, Minneapolis, and Denver. She is passionate about building an inclusive environment where individuals can bring their whole self to work in a collaborative and diverse space. She has active leadership roles in the firm’s national disability Business Resource Group (BRG), Abilities in Motion (AIM), and is an advocate for disability inclusion in the workplace.

Along with her involvement in SOMO, Briana has spent many years volunteering for Special Olympics North America through her employer and currently volunteers as part of the national golf leadership team. This involvement led her to be chosen to serve on the Unified Sports Committee for SOI as a Unified Sport Delegate (USD). She had the humbling honor of being the USD for Golf at the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi. Briana has a passion for inclusion and believes that Unified Sports is one of the best ways to provide meaningful experiences for Athletes and Unified Partners across many sports. She feels that these Unified experiences naturally translate and bridge to experiences outside of sport and help promote inclusive behaviors in all life situations – at work, play, and home.

In addition to her volunteer involvement with Special Olympics, she also volunteers for The Whole Person in Kansas City and for KPMG’s Family for Literacy, which partners with First Book to provide new books to children in low-income families.

Being involved with SOMO provides her the unique opportunity to play an active role in enhancing the Athlete experience from a board perspective on a state level. She is excited to bring her knowledge and resources from her national and international Special Olympics involvement to the local table for the Missouri Athletes.

Brandon Dial, Treasurer

Cathy Bumb, Immediate Past Chair

Cathy Bumb

Director, Remediation & Sr. Environmental Counsel, Eastman Chemical Company
Kirkwood

Cathy has 35 years of practice in environmental and construction both as a civil engineer and lawyer, working both inhouse and as a consultant. A graduate of St. Louis University with a BA in Physics and JD cum laude and Washington University with a BS in Civil Engineering, she currently manages the environmental liabilities worldwide for the Eastman Chemical Company including managing the inhouse Remediation Group that manages all remediation projects for the company. She also provides legal support for major capital projects, including the retention of design, procurement and construction services along with claim resolution.

Though she does not have personal experience being involved with SOMO yet, her son has assisted with coaching and used the experience for his college entrance essay. To see the impact his coaching experience had on him, as well as the athletes' enthusiasm for the organization, was inspiring. SOMO was the first organization that came to mind when looking for something to get involved in.

Mark Bokermann

Jeff Buker

Retired, Homemaker Health Foundation

Jeff Buker currently resides in Jefferson City, Mo. He was most recently the interim President and CEO at Special Olympics Missouri from January 2022 to August 2022.

Before his time at SOMO, Buker was the executive director at Homemaker Health Foundation. His responsibilities there included working with a 13-member board of directors to provide access to medical equipment for people with disabilities, the elderly or those currently in need.

Buker also worked as a division director DPA for the Missouri Division of Workers Compensation from 2006-09. Before that, he was the executive director and chief operating officer for the Missouri State Committee from 2000-06.

Buker is very active in his community. His involvement has included working with the Jefferson City Chamber of Commerce, the Jay-cees and the United Way. He has served as a board member for Students in Free Enterprise and the Missouri Council for In-home Services. He is also a graduate of Leadership Jefferson City. On top of all of that, he is a past rotary member.

Buker graduated with a Bachelor of Science and Marketing from Lincoln University. He has his master’s degree in business administration from Lincoln University as well.

Emily Conley

Emily Conley, CPA

Partner , Armanino, LLP

Emily is an audit partner in the trust group with a specialized focus in audits of privately held manufacturers, nonprofit organizations and employee benefit plans (EBP). Emily assists clients with audit review and compilation, uniform grant guidance and financial statement preparation.

Emily has more than 20 years of experience in managing and coordinating external audits for clients in a variety of industries. She serves as a member of the firm’s manufacturing group.

In addition, Emily has controllership experience working with clients on their monthly closing process, financial statement preparation, account analysis and reconciliation, budget analysis and various other accounting processing and special projects. She also assists with grant reporting to federal agencies.

Emily received both her Master of Accountancy degree and her Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce and Business Administration/Accounting from the University of Alabama. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). She is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Missouri Society of CPAs (MOCPA). She regularly attends the AICPA annual conferences for benefit plans and nonprofits.

Emily enjoys serving as a mentor to emerging professionals and participates in community outreach through volunteer activities. She is a member of the American Society of Women Accountants and currently serves as Chair of the MOCPA Women’s Initiative Committee. Emily is a former member of the Missouri Botanical Garden Corporate Council.

Dr. Ben Cook

Dr. Phil Cook

Superintendent, Carl Junction Schools
Carl Junction

In his first experience with Special Olympics as a volunteer 19 years ago, Phillip Cook says he got his first opportunity to witness the enthusiasm and excitement of the athletes participating.

Years later, Cook is no stranger to volunteer organizations. In addition to Special Olympics, he is on the Board of Directors of the Missouri Unified School Insurance Council, is active in the Webb City Elks Lodge #861, the Webb City/Carl Junction Rotary Club, Pittsburg State University Alumni Association and his local Shop with a Cop program. He also officiates basketball and is the trainer for the Joplin Basketball Officials Association

Cook is currently in his 14th year as superintendent of Carl Junction R-1 Schools. Coming from a family of educators, including his mother, father and brother, he started his teaching career in 1992 as a teacher in Fairland, Okla. He was assistant superintendent for his current school district from 2002-2005 and assistant principal at Carl Junction High School from 2000-2002.

One of his best memories of his years with Special Olympics was during a State Championship basketball game he was officiating in Joplin, Mo. One team was much older and bigger than the other and was in turn winning the game. That didn’t change the attitudes of the athletes; he says they were all still having fun. "At one point, one of the bigger athletes picked up the smallest opponent and held him up so he could dunk the basketball," he said.

Cook is married to his wife, Stacy. He has five children: Lindsay, Andrew, Cooper, Kenley, and Kylee. He also has two granddaughters, Madelyn and Abigail.

Todd Davis

Cydney Glaze

Manager of Football Communications & Administration, Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City

Cydney is a graduate of the University of Colorado - Boulder with a BA in Journalism and Mass Communication. She has worked for the Kansas City Chiefs since 2012, in various positions within the club’s Communications Department. She is currently the Manager of Football Communications & Administration where she manages all gameday credentials for both staff and media, manages the press box at home games and coordinates interviews with players, coaches, executives and the ownership group. She helped develop a new platform for the Chiefs online media guide in 2015 and has worked as a member of the NFL’s Super Bowl PR Staff at seven Super Bowls (XLVI, XLVII, XLVIII, XLIX, 50, LI, LII). In her free time, she serves as a member of the Board of Directors at United Inner City Services.

Cydney's motivation to be on the SOMO board started because of her older brother, John, who was a Special Olympics athlete growing up. She is excited to reengage with this organization and looks forward to the opportunity to get her brother involved again.

“I think this opportunity could enrich my entire family’s life and allow us all to support a great organization.”

Robert Hawkins

Former Chair of the National Board of Visitors for the Knights of Columbus Developmental Center

Robert Hawkins lives in Ballwin, Mo. He is a former board member and former chair of the National Board of Visitors for the Knights of Columbus Developmental Center at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. He is also an ex-officio member of the Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital Board of Governors.

Hawkins held the following Knights of Columbus titles:

Grand Knight 1988-1993
District Deputy 1993-1998
Faithful Navigator St. Louis Assy. 1996-1998
State Chairman 1998-2005
State Director 2005-2016
State Secretary 2016-2018
State Deputy 2018-2020
Louis Chapter President 2000-2002
Missouri District Master 2020-current

In 2022, Lindbergh High School named him one of its distinguished alumni.

Hawkins is also a member and a six-time past president of the Fratellanza Society, which was founded in 1866.

Hawkins also served as the St. Louis 24^th Ward Committeeman from 2000-03. During that same time, he was also the State of Missouri Treasurer for the 4^th Senatorial District.

Jenna Kerwood

Property Tax Services practice leader, Brown Smith Wallace LLP
Chesterfield

Jenna is a Partner and the Property Tax Services practice leader at Brown Smith Wallace LLP. She has lived in St. Louis most of her life, graduated from the University of Missouri Columbia. She is married with three sons: Aaron, 22, Austin, 20, and Adam, 17. Jenna is a sports enthusiast and avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Blues and any other sport her sons are playing.

Jenna's motivation to be on the SOMO board started for professional reasons, but after spending time with another board member (Glenda Knebel), hearing firsthand her experiences at the Polar Plunge, Athletes Awards Banquet and attending a few SOMO events, she was sold on the SOMO mission. She is also super excited to witness the unconditional love and respect the athletes share and to experience the parents watching their athletes gain confidence and grow beyond their expectations.

Jenna expects her involvement with SOMO will likely be life changing. The challenges these athletes overcome is more of an accomplishment than anything she has witnessed personally. She is certain she will be completely awed and inspired by the experience!

Anna McDaniel

Athlete Representative
Columbia

Anna is a long time Special Olympic Athlete. Beginning when she was 9 years old, she earned her first Gold Medals in and Field events. Through the years as she continued to gain experience and confidence, she has participated in multiple local, regional and state competitions, including the 2010 National Games held in Lincoln, NE. She is currently training as a member of the USA Games 2022 to be held in Orlando, FL in June. Locally, Anna currently participates in Bowling, Swimming, Volleyball, Track & Field, Tennis and Bocce.

“Special Olympics has been a big part of making me who I am today," McDaniel said. "The kind and encouraging coaches help give me confidence to try new sports. The practices gave me an opportunity to make new friends and these relationships have made my life better, fuller.”

Anna is a 2009 graduate of Rock Bridge High School. After her graduation, she attended Barnabas Prep from 2012-2013. The next year, she was selected to attend THRIVE, the inclusive college experience located on the campus of University Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO. Her 2015 graduation was made more significant by her selection to be Class President and to speak at the Commencement Ceremony on behalf of her classmates. Since graduating from THRIVE, Anna has maintained a position for the past 6 years with Hy-Vee, training in various areas of the store. Anna has also earned recognition for over 500 hours of volunteer service and earned the ICARE award at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital.

Along with her year round participation in various Special Olympic sports, Anna has also completed her Capstone in Coaching and is looking forward to her graduation from ALPS. She is currently working towards earning her second degree through this program, this time in Health. Anna enjoyed completing her Health Messenger training and becoming an advocate for healthy decisions as a Health and Wellness Ambassador. One of her favorite events throughout the years is the Polar Plunge and she now serves as an Ambassador for that event as well. The opportunity to speak with various groups around Missouri to encourage their support of Special Olympics is another aspect of her training that she really enjoys.

“One of my goals, hopes for serving as a Representative of this board will be to encourage other young people - and their families - to participate in Special Olympics," McDaniel said. "Special Olympics gives all of us athletes the opportunity to be the very best that we can be. It is a safe place to try new things, to meet new people, and to grow in confidence knowing that when we have tried our best, we are truly winners.”

Jim Moran

Retired Asst. Vice President - Director of Department of Public Safety - St. Louis University

Jim Moran was the assistant vice president and director of public safety and emergency preparedness at St. Louis University from 2013-22.

Before that, Moran was a police officer for St. Louis City for more than 20 years, rising up the ranks to captain. Moran has been an avid support for Special Olympics Missouri throughout his entire career.

In the late 1980s, Jim Moran’s involvement with the Torch Run began as a runner. He went on to serve as the agency coordinator for the St. Louis Metro Police Department – helping host events such as the St. Louis Trivia Night and the Plane Pull.

After retiring from St. Louis Metro PD, Jim went on to be the Chief of Police at St. Louis University Department of Public Safety, and brought that agency into the Torch Run family. Jim became a member of the LETR committee in 1995 and he became the chairman in 2014.

In 1999, Jim served on the planning committee for the International Torch Run Conference that was held in St. Louis – and thought it would be great to have an athlete speak in a general session. It was at the conference where Jamie Graham, SOMO athlete, spoke to the attendees and left a very lasting impression on every single person in the room. This was the first time for Special Olympics athletes to speak in a general session and since then, every conference has followed the lead.

In the year 2000, Jim received the John Carion Unsung Hero Award. This award was created by the International LETR Council as a way to recognize outstanding individuals who have contributed to the success of the LETR on a local, state or community level.

In 2003, Jim received the John Michael Letz award as an “unsung hero,” the highest award given in the Missouri Law Enforcement Torch Run. Also that same year, Jim represented Missouri for the Final Leg in Ireland, for the World Games.

Jim has befriended numerous athletes since becoming a Torch Runner – and he will tell you how much they have impacted his life, just as much as they will tell you how much he has impacted theirs.

Brian Naeger

Vice President and COO, Griffin Group

Brian Naeger is the vice president and chief operating officer at Griffin Group. Naeger believes in the SOMO vision, and he has volunteered with our organization in the past.

The St. Louis resident was the co-founder of the Blue Light Family Foundation. He is also a St. Louis Regional Response Systems Training and Exercise committee member and an advisory board member.

Naeger graduated from Webster University. He has experience with government relations, bill development and foundation management.

Zim Schwartze

Ken Theroff

President & CEO, Jefferson Bank
Jefferson City

Ken Theroff's daughter, Grace, has recently become active in Special Olympics activities. Through their experience, he and his wife Susie have been overwhelmed with the optimism and energy of the volunteers. When he was approached about becoming a board member it was an easy decision, "as I am drawn to an organization with such wonderful people who are involved at every level of SOMO."

Ken Theroff is a graduate of Westminster College. He currently serves as the President/CEO of Jefferson Bank and possesses 30 years of experience in the banking industry.

Mr. Theroff serves the Jefferson City community by volunteering with a number of civic and not-for-profit organizations.

"Our family has already gained a great deal from our participation in Special Olympics events. Grace looks forward to all of the competitions, and has made some wonderful friends. Susie and I admire the people who donate their time, talent and treasure to make it all possible."

Brad Wachler

Higher Education Attorney/Sports Advisory and Consulting at Lewis Rice in St. Louis

Brad A. Wachler is a member of the Sports Advisory & Consulting Practice Group at Lewis Rice. With more than 20 years of experience at various levels in college athletics, Brad has led and managed projects of all scope and size within an organization. At Lewis Rice, Brad conducts various reviews for intercollegiate athletic departments to ensure their mission, vision and goals are in perfect alignment with the institution and are able to meet the needs of today’s student-athletes, fans, alumni, donors and all other constituent groups.

Brad conducts full-scale external investigations covering a variety of topics that impact the athletics department, including general personnel matters, sexual harassment, discrimination, hazing and bullying, compliance infractions, among others. Through the investigation process, Brad advises departments on recommended corrective action, risk mitigation and communication strategies.

Moreover, Brad guides universities through the complete divisional reclassification process from initial consideration to acceptance, and he offers comprehensive program reviews to ensure efficient, effective and sustainable operations in an ever-changing landscape.

He also partners with athletic departments on developing a visionary strategic plan that will provide a roadmap for success in a competitive marketplace. This strategic plan can be broad in scope or more limited to focus on specific areas of need, such as fundraising, marketing or alumni engagement.

Brad counsels colleges and universities on measures to reduce risk and promote a more diverse, equitable, inclusive and supportive environment. This includes, among many other things, proactive Title IX and gender equity reviews, strengthening overall hiring practices, implementing employee retention strategies and creating a safe and engaging student-athlete experience.

In the evolving era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), Brad advises and educates colleges and universities, student-athletes and private businesses to ensure compliance with local, state and federal laws.

He proudly serves institutions throughout all divisions of the NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA along with athletic conference offices.

Gary Wilbers

Owner, Ascend Business Strategies
Jefferson City

Gary Wilbers has been an entrepreneur and owner of multiple companies in the Jefferson City area for the last 27 years. Gary was a pioneer in the wireless industry growing his company to 150 employees. He is currently the owner of Ascend Business Strategies which provides Speaking, Coaching and Training services to businesses and organizations.

Gary has served on the board for Special Olympics from 2008 to 2016, he was the Capital Campaign Chair for the Special Olympics of Missouri Training for Life Campus from 2013 to 2017. Gary is involved in his community, giving time and resources to organizations such as United Way of Central Missouri and his local church. Gary greatest passion is playing unified golf with Keith Lueckenhoff. He and his wife Dana have three children Chris, Adam and Elle.

Chief Paul Williams

Chief, Springfield Police Department
Springfield

Chief Paul F. Williams was sworn in as the Chief of Police for the City of Springfield, Missouri on July 1, 2010. He began his law enforcement career in 1981 with the Tulsa (OK) Police Department, retiring at the rank of Major after 29 years of service. Chief Williams holds a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Northeastern (OK) State University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Northern Michigan University. He is a graduate of PERF’s Senior Management Institute for Police-Class 35 and a graduate of the FBI National Academy-207th Session.

He instructs criminal justice courses at Missouri State University and is a Missouri POST generalist instructor. Previously he taught criminal justice courses for the University of Phoenix, served as an instructor for the IACP Leadership in Police Organizations program, and was an Oklahoma CLEET instructor. Chief Williams currently serves in leadership roles with the following organizations: Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POST)-Chairman, IACP-Board of Directors; Springfield-Greene County 911 Board-Chairman, Trunked Radio System Board-Secretary, Community Partnership of the Ozarks-Board of Directors, Burrell Behavioral Health-Vice Chairman of Board of Directors, Missouri Crime Lab Review Commission-member, Kickapoo High School Soccer Booster Club-President, as well as a volunteer on numerous advisory boards and councils.

Chief Williams was honored as Missouri’s Police Chief of the Year in 2015, and as one of Springfield's Men of the Year in 2016. He is member of Redeemer Lutheran Church and he and his wife, Regina, have three children and one granddaughter.

Young Professionals Board

Special Olympics Missouri Young Professionals Board

The Special Olympics Missouri Young Professionals Board (SOMO YPB) is a career and volunteer development opportunity geared toward integrating the time, talents and interests of young professionals (ages 21-40) to help further the mission of Special Olympics Missouri.

BENEFITS OF BEING ON THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD:

Expand your professional network.
Gain valuable leadership experience.
Receive recognition on SOMO website, newsletter, and annual report.
Make strategic professional connections through networking events with SOMO’s Board of Directors.
Make a difference in the lives of Special Olympics Missouri athletes.

BOARD EXPECTATIONS:

Serve at least a two-year term on the SOMO YPB.
Attend a majority of SOMO YPB meetings.
Participate in SOMO YPB committees as needed.
Collaborate and leverage members’ professional and social networks to advance SOMO’s mission.
Act as ambassadors of SOMO, increasing awareness of its mission and building community engagement.
Provide support for special events, fundraising campaigns and volunteer-related activities.
Increase SOMO’s volunteer and coaching network.
Plan fundraising events and recruit new members.
Be well informed and prepared for meetings.
Listen respectfully to all viewpoints.

SOMO is currently accepting nominations for our inaugural membership to the SOMO YPB. If you are interested in joining, please read through the charter and fill out the online SOMO YPB Self-Nomination Form.

Rachael Bittiker

Rachael Bittiker is Executive Director of Community Missions, with 12 years of experience working in the non-profit spectrum, helping vulnerable populations and families gain self-sufficiency through breaking down social determinants of health. With a bachelor's degree in Public Health and a master's degree in organizational leadership, she loves working in the community making it a better place for all to thrive.

Alexis Blankenship

McKinley Fitzgerald

McKinley Fitzgerald
Kansas City Metro Area

McKinley Fitzgerald is a lifetime resident of Overland Park. She graduated from Benedictine College in Atchison in 2020 with degrees in accounting and finance. After college, she spent a few years working at a small community bank in Topeka and now is a commercial lender at Country Club Bank. In her free time she enjoys indoor cycling, playing pickleball, and spending time with her friends, family and fiancé.

Jonathan Fuller

Jonathan Fuller
St. Louis Metro Area

I grew up in Chesterfield, Mo. and first got connected with children with intellectual disabilities when volunteering at Promise Christian Academy, a school designed for students with disabilities. I graduated in 2020 with a bachelor's degree in agriculture business management from the University of Missouri. I spent two years working for an agriculture retailer in northeast Missouri before making a career jump into the transportation industry with Cass Information Systems as an account manager. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, hanging out at cattle shows with my fiancé, and eating good St. Louis BBQ - which in my opinion is superior to Kansas City BBQ.

Travis Grasser

Victoria Trammell

St. Louis Metro Area

Travis is a financial advisor at RBF Wealth Advisors in St. Louis. He works with individuals and families to help them reach their personal financial goals, and offers business clients a thoughtful approach to retirement plans. Travis is a graduate of Denison University in Granville, Ohio. In his free time, Travis enjoys playing sand volleyball, chess and watching the St. Louis Cardinals.

Claudia Gray

Claudia Gray
Kansas City Metro Area

Claudia Gray was born and raised in the Kansas City, Mo. area. She graduated from Rasmussen University in December 2020, and she has since obtained her Certified Financial Planner^TM certification. Claudia is a financial planner at Stepp & Rothwell, Inc., a comprehensive, fee-only financial planning firm, and is passionate about helping her clients by providing conflict-free financial advice. She became involved with Special Olympics Missouri because she loves seeing others excel and doing things they enjoy. She currently resides in Independence, Mo. with her husband, Sam, and their four dogs, Caesar, Koba, Nova and Bruno.

Rebecca Greene

Rebecca Greene

Southwest Area

Rebecca is the Director Of Prosper U with Central Bank of the Ozarks in Springfield, MO. She focuses on providing financial literacy to the Springfield community through financial education classes and one-on-one financial counseling. Rebecca has more than 12 years of experience in the financial services industry. As a mother of a child with special needs, Rebecca is excited to be a part of Special Olympics of Missouri!

Kiley Groves

Aimee Hagnauer

Aimee Hagnauer
STL Metro Area
Aimee Hagnauer is a digital marketing coordinator at Perficient. When she isn't working, she can be found reading, spending time with her family, or loudly cheering on the St. Louis Blues. She is an avid hockey fan and loves watching her alma mater, Mizzou, and watching the St. Louis Cardinals. Aimee is excited to get involved with the Special Olympics of Missouri!

Sawyer Hawkins

Ali Lawson

Sarah McElveney

Sarah McElveney
STL Metro Area
Sarah works for Perficient, a digital consultancy firm, leading regional marketing efforts for their North American teams. She manages regional branding and awareness campaigns, client-facing events, regional conference sponsorships, and more. She is actively engaged in employee culture and serves on Perficient’s Women in Technology ERG on the Marketing and Communications and Membership Committees. Sarah has a BA from Saint Louis University in Organizational Behavior Studies and a BA in Fashion Merchandising from Miami International University of Art and Design.

Jason Moses

Taylor Oestreich

Taylor Oestreich

Central Area

Taylor Oestreich is from Fulton, Missouri and attended William Woods University. Taylor graduated in 2014 with his degree in Bachelor of Science in Education with Special Education Certification. He is a Special Education teacher at Fulton High School and has been for the past 8 years. He coaches basketball and golf for the Fulton Special Olympics and has been for 17 years. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his daughter, reading books, working out at the local gym, playing pickleball, and advising students in Student Council.

Allison Pope

St. Louis Metro Area

Allison Pope is originally from the Springfield, Mo area and attended Drury University. Allison graduated in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She did graduate work at Drury in Special Education and is on her way to a doctorate in Lifespan Development and Behavior. Allison has been a special education teacher in the Springfield area, focusing on children with extreme behaviors. After that she moved to the STL area, where she is a Center Director of an early childhood learning center in the heart of West County. Her favorite things are spending time with her husband and two children; reading a good book; and anything to be done outside. Her Special Olympics journey began as a basketball coach and her belief in the organizations promise led her to the Young Professionals Board. Her motto is to “lead with intention and compassion in order to create an inclusive environment for all.”

Julian Sansano

Korey Schroeder

Korey Schroeder

Southwest Area

Korey was born and raised in Victoria, Texas. She attended West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas on a soccer scholarship, and she graduated in 2015 with her Bachelors in Science with an emphasis in wildlife and conservation management. After college, she moved up to the Dakotas to take a job as a conservation biologist and wildland firefighter for six years. While in the fire service, she found her calling to volunteer. In Dec. 2019, she took a job as an operations associate with Team Rubicon, a nonprofit disaster response organization. She now works there as a manager. Korey has a passion for leadership, developing volunteers, mentoring others, community engagement, conservation, the great outdoors and sports. She wonders how we can make the world a better place. While her line of work is mostly in emergency management and disaster response, she has a strong passion for community resiliency and advocating for human rights. Her philosophy is everyone can be a leader when given the proper toolset. Just as Special Olympics states, "people with intellectual disabilities can – and will – succeed when given the chance." We just need to be an advocate for them!

Casey Sexton

Casey Sexton
KC Metro Area
Casey Sexton is from Abilene, Kansas (home of Dwight D. Eisenhower – 34th U.S. President) and attended Kansas State University. Casey graduated in 2016 with degrees in Accounting, Finance and Economics and 2017 with a Master’s of Accountancy. Casey obtained his CPA license shortly after college and moved to Kansas City, MO to pursue a career in public accounting. In his spare time, Casey enjoys hunting, playing golf, hiking, running and volunteering for various community service events.

Christopher Stehle

Central Area

Chris Stehle is from Knob Noster, Missouri and attended the University of Central Missouri. Chris graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education K-12 and a Minor in Athletic Coaching. Chris is currently a Gross Motor Specialist for the Columbia Public Schools District where he serves as an Adapted Physical Education Teacher for the Early Childhood Special Education Program at CPS. Chris coaches Varsity Football as the Receivers Coach for Rock Bridge High School as well as a Sprints Coach for the Rock Bridge High School Track Team. Chris also referees High School Basketball for MSHSAA and Umpires Softball for USA Softball. Chris currently serves on the Board of Directors for MOSHAPE (Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators) as the Chair of Marketing and Communications.

Victoria Trammell

Victoria Trammell

St. Louis Metro Area

Victoria went to Maryville University of St. Louis, where she obtained her bachelor's degree in communication sciences and disorders with a minor in deaf studies. Now, Victoria works as an educational consultant and resource teacher at Word of Life Lutheran School through the Lutheran Association for Specialized Education. If Victoria isn't teaching children with exceptionalities, she is likely at home with her fiancé and their three pets or taking a walk! In her free time, she works toward improving her career at Fontbonne University. Fun Fact: Victoria grew up on a farm in SEMO!

Job openings

If these job openings don't interest you, please check back in the future. You can also fill out our online employment application and we will contact you if any jobs open up that we feel line up with your experience.

Questions about the job application process? Email us!

IS SPECIAL OLYMPICS RIGHT FOR YOU?

We encourage you to apply if:

You have experience successfully working alongside determined individuals
You understand the importance of relationships as the secret sauce
You’re a self-starter and committed to the greater good
You’re results driven, bottom-line oriented and steadfastly push yourself to achieve goals
You enjoy navigating challenges and being solution oriented
You’re an out-of-the-box thinker who thrives on innovation to ensure mission success
You’re generous with your time and enjoy flexibility
You’re an exceptional team player with a great work ethic

Administrative Assistant (FT)

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: Administrative Assistant

Brief Description: The Administrative Assistant is responsible for management of, and data processing for Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) Raiser’s Edge statewide database. This system includes donors, athletes, volunteers, coaches, families, and other constituents. The Assistant will also have other administrative support responsibilities for SOMO. The Administrative Assistant will ensure compliance with Special Olympics International General Rules and Special Olympics Missouri Policies and Procedures while consistently demonstrating SOMO Guiding Values.

Timeframe: Immediate Opening

Details:(The following are illustrations of the duties of the position. The absence of specific statements of duties does not exclude these tasks from the position if the work is similar, related to, or a logical assignment of the position)

Ensure consistent and accurate entry of all constituents’ gifts in the SOMO Raiser’s Edge CRM
system, to include gift acknowledgment in compliance with SOMO accounting standards
Collaborate with others to interpret data and develop recommendations for tracking of data for
special events
Provide primary support within Raiser’s Edge and Luminate, to include troubleshooting and
creation of reports, mailings, queries, and exports
Process matching gifts and communicate with Special Olympics International Donor Services
regarding “Do Not Solicit” requests and gift questions/concerns
Maintain hygiene and integrity of Raiser’s Edge data
Provide assistance with accounting functions as requested by CFO
Backup TLC receptionist and help with TLC visitor approval/check-in
Assists as needed with procurement of office supplies & office equipment maintenance
Other duties as assigned by Supervisor

Qualifications: If interested, please provide the following information.

Some experience with donor database systems is preferred, but not required

Interested candidates should complete the application for employment: http://form.jotform.com/SpecialOlympicsMO/somo-employment-app

LOCATION: Jefferson City, MO

Full PDF Job Announcement

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MISSOURI IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

UCS Internship

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT: UCS Internship

Brief Description:This intern will work directly with the Unified Champion Schools (UCS) Team of Special Olympics Missouri. The intern will have opportunities to impact the lives of individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. This position will be based in Jefferson City, and the intern workload and stipend will be based on availability and affiliated institution requirements.

Timeframe: Immediate Opening

Details: Internship length and hours are flexible, depending on the student’s needs. Interns would need a weekly presence in the Jefferson City office ideally at least 2 days per week.

Specific project and SOMO Event dates: The Program Intern will assist the Program Team in a number of duties that will include but are not limited to;

Develop program and event materials
Participate in meetings and conference calls where appropriate
Community Outreach
Help with staff requests
Other duties as assigned

Qualifications: If interested, please provide the following information.

Cover letter (1-page or less) that includes why you want to join the Special Olympics Missouri team and why you feel this position is a good fit for you.
Resume: Resume submission is required for consideration of this position.

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume to Senior Director of Human Resources.

LOCATION: Jefferson City, MO

Full PDF Job Announcement

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MISSOURI IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Internships

Special Olympics Missouri loves interns! Applications are accepted throughout the year for a variety of positions within our nonprofit organization. Internships are available in public relations and communications, event planning and development, sports management, health and wellness, or youth engagement. If you’re an enthusiastic leader who works independently and you have excellent organizational and communication skills, please consider Special Olympics.

While most interns are unpaid, they can receive school credit, depending on their school’s requirements. We are looking for self-starters with excellent verbal, written, and organizational skills.

With six different offices around the state, we have internships near you. They also range in subject matter from operations, to fundraising, to event planning, to public relations, to health, and much more.

We have the following internships available:

We also have volunteer opportunities available for everyone. The time commitment for Special Olympics volunteers varies from a few hours per year at specific events to working several hours a week year-round. For more information on volunteering, please visit our Volunteers page.

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume that highlights your experience and career goals to the e-mail address below that is specified with each internship.

Staff & Leadership / Job Openings

“The right to play on any playing field? You have earned it. The right to study in any school? You have earned it. The right to hold a job? You have earned it. The right to be anyone’s neighbor. You have earned it.”

We, the staff of Special Olympics Missouri, believe in the following guiding values, which are engrained in the way we think and act:

Headquarters staff

Larry Linthacum

Jessica Anderson

Maci Arnold

Grace Davis

Ken Enloe

Norma Gilliland

Carol Griffin

Craig Hall

Kayla Hull

Jerry Kliethermes

Luke Lamb

Brian Neuner

Zach Paul

Derek Sandbothe

Crystal Schuster

Susan Shaffer

Makenna Szumigala

Kelly Tannehill

Grace Theroff

Emma Thomas

Allen Tobin

Greg Wingrath

Central Area

Alex Jones

Tim Schuster

Kansas City Metro Area

Gabby Buttice

Christina McDonough Hunt

Meg Ward

North Area

Mitch Curran

Charlie Phillips

Melody Prawitz

Southeast Area

Jen Rose

Penny Williams

Scott Williams

Southwest Area

Haley Blevins

Dick Jones

Jesse Williams

St. Louis Metro Area

Jocelyn Diehl

Payton Harris

Ben Johnson

Kellen Wolters

Special Olympics Missouri Young Professionals Board

BENEFITS OF BEING ON THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS BOARD:

BOARD EXPECTATIONS:

IS SPECIAL OLYMPICS RIGHT FOR YOU?

We have the following internships available:

Connect with SOMO