For more than three decades, Colleen Costello has been a powerful leader within Special Olympics Illinois. She first got involved at age 10, when she asked her coach, Jenny, if she could compete in gymnastics — a moment that sparked a partnership now 30 years strong.
Her athletic journey has taken her around the world, including the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, where she competed in rhythmic gymnastics and earned multiple medals. It was her first time competing in rhythmic gymnastics at the world stage, and the experience was unforgettable.
“I was so excited when I got my first gold medal… and then I got the second, third, and fourth,” she said.
But even in those proud moments, Colleen was thinking about how to help other athletes experience the same excitement and opportunities that Special Olympics had given her.
That instinct to support others is what led Colleen to the Special Olympics Illinois Board of Directors, where she is now serving her third term. Her path to the state board began at the local level, where she first served on her agency’s board to share athlete perspectives and learn more about leadership. “I like being on the board so I can get their opinions and give them my ideas,” she said.
Colleen takes that responsibility seriously. Before every meeting, she gathers feedback from athletes, coaches, and parents to bring their ideas directly to leadership. “They have good ideas,” she said.
She believes deeply in the importance of athlete voices in decision-making. “If you’re not an athlete, you don’t know what it’s like to be an athlete,” Colleen said. “So it’s my job to tell the board what it’s like.”
For Colleen, inclusion is at the heart of everything she does — both as an athlete and as a leader. “Inclusion means that we make the right decisions for everybody, so that all people can participate in special events,” she said. “If I’m on the board, I’m helping all the other athletes.”
On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate Colleen for her leadership, her advocacy, and the countless ways she lifts others up. Through her voice, dedication, and passion for inclusion, Colleen continues to make Special Olympics Illinois stronger for athletes today and for generations to come.