MOUNT GREENWOOD — Joseph Nagle of Mount Greenwood has been named executive director of Special Olympics Chicago.
The move also includes oversight of Special Children’s Charities — the fundraising co-sponsor of Special Olympics Chicago since 1969.
Nagle has served on Special Olympics' board since 2013 and became the group's treasurer in 2015. He will replace Susan Nicholl, who served as executive director for the past 11 years.
Nagle will be responsible for all fundraising efforts and securing corporate sponsorships to support programs and events. He will also be responsible for continuing to increase the awareness of the organization to the public, as well as recruiting new athletes.
“I am truly honored to be named executive director of this incredible organization that changes the lives of people with intellectual disabilities each and every day,” Nagle said in a written statement.
Nagle will further oversee and implement all special events, including the annual Polar Plunge. The fundraiser has attracted the participation of “The Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon, actor Vince Vaughn, musician and artist Lady Gaga and actor Dax Shepard.
"I look forward to working with the Chicago Park District, Chicago Public Schools, our sister organizations, current and future sponsors, and most importantly our athletes, to bring the organization to the next level," said Nagle, who is also tasked with planning the 50th anniversary celebration of Special Olympics next July.
Nagle, a graduate of University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, previously served as senior vice president at JLL. There, he was responsible for managing corporate real estate portfolios for companies throughout the United States, Canada, India and Philippines.
Prior to working at JLL, Nagel was the director of operations at Millennium Park.
Special Olympics was founded in Chicago at Soldier Field in 1968. The Chicago chapter is the largest in the state of Illinois with more than 7,500 athletes.
“Joe has an incredible list of talents — with experience in fundraising, management, events, sponsorship and more. I look forward to working closely with Joe on building the Special Olympics Chicago program and brand," said Kevin Magnuson, president of Special Olympics Chicago.
