Katie Wallace is a Special Olympics athlete and member who has been involved with the organization for 20 years. Though she first noticed her friends enjoying the experience during high school, she didn’t fully understand what Special Olympics was or that it could be for her too. Living with autism, she wasn’t sure there was a place for her in sports. But after a meaningful conversation with her grandmother following graduation, everything changed. Her grandmother introduced her to Special Olympics Virginia, and from that moment on, Katie began her journey of discovery—not just in athletics, but in belonging. Since then, she has found deep purpose in competing, made lifelong friends, and built meaningful connections within a community that celebrates everyone for who they are.
Since Katie has started with Special Olympics, she has participated in bowling, swimming, basketball, soccer, and track and field over that time. She has won 19 medals throughout her entire Special Olympics experience. She has also served as a Special Olympics Global Messenger, giving speeches throughout the state of Virginia.
Katie has participated in many events and activities throughout Special Olympics, but ones that she wants to experience that she hasn’t already, include Capitol Hill Day to spread the message of inclusion from Special Olympics to members of Congress, as well as hopefully becoming an International Global Messenger one day to spread the message of inclusion all over the world. Katie is also interested in performing the opening ceremony of Summer Games one day, as well as helping light the cauldron.
Katie Wallace’s message to anybody joining the Special Olympics organization for the first time, is “that” anybody with disabilities can play sports, make friends, and have a good time within this organization. Whenever Katie feels down, what inspires her to keep going is thinking of those in the disability community who don’t yet have a voice. Knowing she can advocate on their behalf fuels her passion and encourages her to keep up the good work—continuing to fight for the greater good in support of the disability community.
