Sherry Wheelock Appointed President/CEO of Special Olympics Florida

Monty Castevens to Retire
after 16 Years of Service

The Special Olympics Florida Board of Directors recently announced that it has appointed Sherry Wheelock as President/CEO effective August 13, 2012.  Current President/CEO Monty Castevens will retire from his executive role effective August 17, 2012.

Sherry Wheelock:  An Established Executive with a Passion for the Mission

With more than 20 years in finance and over 10 years in executive leadership, Ms. Wheelock brings a new strategic focus and proven team success to Special Olympics Florida (SOFL).  Ms. Wheelock served on the SOFL Board of Directors for 5 years before becoming Chairwoman in 2011.  During her time on the board she has been active in fundraising and participated as an assistant coach of swimming and golf with Special Olympics Orange County.

Wheelock said, “I am honored and privileged to lead Special Olympics Florida.  I look forward to working with the organization’s dedicated staff and volunteers.  Mostly, I am thrilled to serve the athletes all around the state.”

Previously, Ms. Wheelock served as Vice President and Treasurer of Universal Orlando, managing $1.5 billion in debt and covenants.  She has also served on the boards of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and North Florida and the Universal Orlando Foundation.  Ms. Wheelock has a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Baylor University and is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Florida.

Monty Castevens:  An Instrumental Leader

After a 40-year involvement with Special Olympics, Monty’s successes during the last 16 years in Florida have been remarkable.  The number of athletes participating has increased by 300 percent; state-level competition events have grown from 3 to 9; and assets increased by 500 percent.

Mr. Castevens will immediately begin leading the preparation for the 2013 International Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics® Conference to be held in Orlando and will aid in the President/CEO transition.

“I have been blessed to be part of such an outstanding organization,” said Mr. Castevens. “With the honesty and excitement of the athletes and the sharing of their many gifts, with the dedication and passion of volunteers, and with the generosity of donors, I cannot imagine a more rewarding career.  I plan to return to the best job in the world -- that is a Special Olympics Volunteer Coach!”

“On behalf of everyone at Special Olympics Florida, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the service and dedication Monty has given for the past 16 years.  We wish him all the best in his new role and ultimately, in his retirement,” said Ron Fulop, new SOFL Board Chairman.