John Dow

Dow manages the team of Regional Presidents, overseeing strategic planning, Program development, and fund-raising. Dow has more than 30 years of professional educational leadership experience.

Prior to joining Special Olympics, he worked as a national consultant to educational and nonprofit organizations, specializing in planning programs geared toward disenfranchised and socially alienated students.

In 1992, Dow was named the Chief Executive Officer of the National Academy Foundation (NAF), and from 1983 to 1992, he served as the CEO of the New Haven (Connecticut) Public Schools. Dow earned his bachelor’s degree in Biology and Physical Education from Indiana State University, his master’s degree in Education with a Counseling Emphasis from Indiana State University, and his doctorate in Educational Administration from Michigan State University.

Dow has been recognized with numerous educational awards throughout his career, including the Black Businesses and Professional Women’s Association Man of the Year; and the Indiana State University Distinguished Alumni Award. Additionally, The Executive Educator named Dow one of North America’s top School Educators.