Council Member since 2025
Current Term expires in 20258
Kansas, USA
John Lair is the President and CEO of Special Olympics Kansas and serves as an At Large member of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® International Executive Council. He has been engaged with Special Olympics for more than 33 years, beginning as a coach and continuing to champion athletes through a wide range of roles. Over the years, John has coached 16 different sports and remains directly connected to athletes today as a Unified golf and softball partner with Special Olympics Kansas.
John’s involvement with the Law Enforcement Torch Run began locally when he engaged his Special Olympics team with law enforcement to raise awareness and funds in the community. In 2005, he launched the Polar Plunge in Pittsburg, Kansas, which has since raised more than $1 million to support athletes. He went on to serve on the Kansas LETR Executive Council from 2007 to 2017, and as CEO has witnessed firsthand the tremendous growth and impact of LETR on programs and athletes, especially as Kansas is recognized as the founding program of the Torch Run movement.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a master’s degree in Developmental Psychology. John is also certified in the Special Olympics Kansas Leadership Program, reflecting his ongoing commitment to athlete development and leadership growth.
Contact Information: lairj@soks.org