Special Olympics South Dakota Newsletter

October 28 2025

Please Welcome Our New President / CEO, Nick Moen!

The Board of Directors of Special Olympics South Dakota (SOSD) is proud to announce the appointment of Nick Moen as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 27, 2025.

Moen brings more than a decade of leadership experience across higher education, nonprofit athletics, and community engagement. A purpose-driven and people-focused executive, he has a proven track record of building strategic partnerships, strengthening donor relations, and advancing inclusive programs that make a lasting impact.

Most recently, Moen served as Assistant Director of Athletics Administration at Augustana University, where he led partnership development efforts that generated the highest sponsorship revenue in university athletic history. His career also includes leadership roles at the University of Sioux Falls and as General Manager of the Sioux Falls Sunfish Baseball Club, where he helped launch and establish a new community-based sports franchise.

“Nick embodies the spirit of Special Olympics — dedication, teamwork, and respect for every individual,” said David Herbster, Vice-Chair of the SOSD Board of Directors. “His leadership will strengthen our mission to provide year-round sports training, sports competitions, inclusion, and health programs across the state.”

“As we celebrate the remarkable legacy of our outgoing CEO, Darryl Nordquist — whose dedication and leadership have strengthened the heart of Special Olympics South Dakota — we also welcome our new CEO with great excitement and confidence,” said Monica Burgess, Chair of the SOSD Board of Directors. “Together, we look forward to building on a foundation of inclusion, excellence, and joy that continues to change lives across our state.”

After serving 18 years as President and CEO, Darryl Nordquist will transition into a fundraising and advisory role, continuing to support SOSD’s mission and assist with the leadership t transition. Under his guidance, SOSD grew statewide impact, expanded programs, and inspired a culture of inclusion that will carry forward into this next chapter.

“I’m deeply honored to join Special Olympics South Dakota as President and CEO,” said Nick Moen. “This movement represents the very best of who we are — inclusion, community, and togetherness. I’m excited to help advance our mission and celebrate the incredible spirit of our athletes. I am thrilled to continue to build a unified and compassionate South Dakota.”

The Board described Moen as a leader whose authenticity, compassion, and ability to connect with people make him an ideal fit to guide SOSD into its future. Known for his hands-on leadership style and his genuine care for others, Moen leads by listening first and building relationships that inspire shared purpose. His energy and passion for inclusion reflect the very spirit of Special Olympics, and the Board is confident his leadership will continue to elevate the organization and the communities it serves across South Dakota.

You can contact Nick at

nmoen@sosd.org

South Dakota Parent Connection connects families who care for individuals birth to age 26 with disabilities or special health care needs to information, training, and resources in an environment of support, hope, and respect.

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IN OTHER NEWS

Special Olympics has teamed up with Little Words Project on a limited-edition Champion Bracelet!

25% of proceeds go directly to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota!

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