Special Olympics Ontario Welcomes New Directors and Honours Departing Members 

Special Olympics Ontario is pleased to announce the election of new directors to its Board at the Annual Meeting held on October 29, 2024. These individuals bring a wealth of experience, energy, and passion for Special Olympics Ontario’s mission, and we look forward to their valuable contributions in the coming years. Their leadership and diverse expertise will further empower our efforts to enrich the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities through the transformative power of sport. 

Joining the Board are: 

  • Niki da Silva – Chief People Officer, Golf Canada 
  • Lindsay Hamilton – Anchor, SportsCentre, TSN 
  • Liza Lemieux – Partner, BDO Canada LLP ( will act as the Chair of the Audit Committee) 

Current Board Members are: 

  • Aly Champsi – Incoming Chair of the Board, Managing Director, DW Healthcare Partners 
  • Shelly Lowe – Incoming Vice Chair, Retired Vice-President Global Markets, IBM 
  • Gillian Dingle – Secretary, Partner, Torys LLP 
  • Shemina Jiwani – Chair, Fundraising Committee, COO, SVP Strategic Initiatives 
  • John Bryden – Past Chair of the Board, Senior Director, Integrated Health Management, Sobeys Inc 
  • Julia Romualdi – Athlete Representative, Actress  
  • Dr. Devin Singh – Staff Physician & Lead Clinical AI & Machine Learning in PEM, SickKids Hospital 
  • Chief Jim MacSween – York Regional Police Service 
  • Darcy Montgomery – Creative Director, Velvet Rope Productions 

“We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding new members to our Board of Directors. Each brings unique perspectives and insights that will enhance our ability to serve our athletes and communities across Ontario,” said Aly Champsi, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Ontario. “We are confident that their dedication and skills will support the continued growth and impact of our organization.” 

Special Olympics Ontario also extends heartfelt gratitude to our departing board members: 

  • Taje Mohabir – Past Chair 
  • Stephen Meade 
  • Richard Onley 

Their contributions and commitment have left a lasting legacy on our organization, and their efforts have been instrumental in advancing our mission. We thank them for their invaluable service and dedication to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities. 

With this strengthened leadership team, Special Olympics Ontario is poised to build on its achievements and expand its outreach and programming, ensuring more opportunities for athletes across the province.