The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games have concluded in the Twin Cities. But they left Minnesota with the spirit of competition, inclusion, and joy. Beyond the leaderboards, the true impact of the Games can be measured by the new relationships formed, confidence gained, and partnerships made with the community and corporations that make accessibility possible.
A 45-year journey from the podium to volunteer
Tina Johnson’s history with the Special Olympics began 45 years ago in North Dakota. Over the decades, she competed nationwide in sports ranging from swimming and track to floor hockey and volleyball. Her athletic achievements include a gold medal in volleyball at the 2006 USA Games, a silver medal in bocce in 2010, and a bronze medal in basketball in 2014.
For the 2026 Games, Johnson traveled from Boise, Idaho, to the Twin Cities to trade her athlete’s jersey for a volunteer vest. Joined by her niece, Ann Cirullo, she spent her time catching up with old friends, watching tennis matches, and volunteering as a golf ball spotter.
“While I was unable to compete in the 1991 Games in the Twin Cities, I enjoyed being able to come back this year and make it special by sharing the experience with my family and friends and being able to volunteer with my niece,” Johnson said. “Being new to golf, it was fun to be able to volunteer for that event and to try to learn from the athletes.”
Family traditions and inclusive workplaces
Johnson originally introduced Cirullo to the Games years ago, sparking a lifelong family tradition of advocacy. Cirullo, who lives in the Twin Cities, works as a human resources partner for Bank of America, a corporate sponsor of the Games.
For Cirullo, experiencing the event alongside Ann Cirullo (left) and Tina Johnson (right), volunteered at the golf event in 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Johnson highlighted both the personal and professional sides of inclusion.
“Sharing the Games with Tina is incredibly special and seeing her inspire the next generation is a powerful reminder of the movement’s lifelong impact,” Cirullo said.
“As a Bank of America employee, it makes me deeply proud to work for a company that backs this community through a 50-year partnership with the Special Olympics and over 30 years of inclusive employment through Support Services. It’s a beautiful demonstration of what happens when we invest in true inclusion and support something much bigger than ourselves.”
of America executives. Pictured from left to right are Lucas Giambelluca, Ann Cirullo, Tina Johnson, Theresa John-
son, Kent Johnson, Jeri Kjerstad, and Briget Fields.
From the 1991 Twin Cities World Games to this summer’s celebration, the goals of the Special Olympics remain focused on smashing stigmas and fostering unconditional belonging. That enduring strength continues to thrive through the dedication of families, community members, and legacy competitors like Johnson who return to pass the torch to the next generation.
