Western University announced the establishment of the Dr. Frank J. Hayden Chair in Sport and Social Impact within Western’s Faculty of Health Sciences.

The $1.5 million contribution, a one-time legacy project to celebrate Special Olympics’ 50th Anniversary, is a collaboration by the Special Olympics Canada Foundation, Special Olympics Canada, its Provincial/Territorial Chapters and several affiliated organizations and champions.  This investment, along with matching funds from Western, created a $3 million endowed Chair.

The Hayden Chair will advance work of Western’s Sport and Social Impact Research Group, an integrated team with a focus on the social impact of sport and physical activity on those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Chair will also work in conjunction with Special Olympics Canada to create and contribute to a knowledge hub that helps transfer research knowledge out to Special Olympics communities, athletes, families and supporters. 

Congratulations and thank you to everyone who helped make this special 50th anniversary project a reality!