Special Olympics Wisconsin (SOWI) proudly announces its 2026 Board of Directors officers, welcomes six new Board members, and extends its deepest gratitude to several longtime leaders who are retiring from Board service.
Stacy Alexejun has been elected Board Chair, succeeding longtime Chair Michael Grubich, whose leadership and dedication have helped guide Special Olympics Wisconsin through years of growth and impact. Joining Alexejun on the 2026 officer slate are Chad Figueroa as Board Chair-Elect, Jaime Purko as Board Treasurer, and Julia Fello as Board Secretary.
“It is an honor to step into the role of Board Chair for an organization that means so much to our athletes, families, and communities, and I am proud to be the first woman Board Chair for Special Olympics Wisconsin,” said Stacy Alexejun, Board Chair of Special Olympics Wisconsin. “I am grateful for Michael Grubich’s steady leadership and the strong foundation he leaves behind. I look forward to working alongside this exceptional Board and Staff to continue expanding opportunities, inclusion, and life-changing experiences for athletes across Wisconsin.”
Special Olympics Wisconsin also recognizes and thanks its retiring Board members for their years of service and commitment to the mission: Lori Casper (Law Enforcement Torch Run State Director), Gabrielle Dow, Marquis Garner, Arvind Gopaltratnam, and Joel Wener. Their collective contributions have helped advance the organization’s programs, partnerships, and statewide reach.
In addition, SOWI is pleased to welcome the following incoming Board of Directors, whose diverse professional expertise and community connections will further strengthen the organization’s leadership:
- Angela Gilman, Milwaukee Bucks
- Lane Grindle, Milwaukee Brewers
- Sarah Quick, Green Bay Packers
- Matt Spence, Sheboygan County Sheriff
- Sami Schmidt, SOWI Athlete Leader
- Amy Verheydan, Saco Foods, LLC
- Nate Stetzer, Law Enforcement Torch Run State Director – Board Member
“These leaders bring a powerful combination of professional insight, community influence, and personal passion for inclusion,” said Chad Hershner, President and CEO of Special Olympics Wisconsin. “We are thrilled to welcome our new Board members and officers, and we are incredibly thankful to those who are retiring for their lasting impact on our organization. Together, this Board will help us continue serving more than 14,000 athletes across Wisconsin and advancing our mission of inclusion through sport, health, and leadership.”
The new officers and Board members will be formally welcomed during the April 2026 Board of Directors meeting. For more information about Special Olympics Wisconsin and its Board of Directors, visit specialolympicswisconsin.org.