For 20 years, two women have led the charge in improving the health and wellness of Special Olympics athletes across Wisconsin. Lois Harrison and Dianne Isnard, the founding Clinical Directors of Special Olympics Wisconsin’s FUNfitness program were honored with the 2025 Golisano Health Leadership Award during the opening ceremonies of the 2025 Spring Games in Oshkosh.
This prestigious award, presented by the Golisano Foundation, is the highest honor for individuals who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to the health and inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Building a Movement
Lois Harrison, a Physical Therapist and educator at Concordia University Wisconsin, has made lasting contributions both on and off the field. Through her leadership, university students have gained hands-on experience serving Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes.
“As a physical therapy educator, I know it is so important to effectively prepare our future healthcare providers to meet the needs of the diverse patients they will care for during their careers,” Lois said. “Having the ability to offer university students the opportunity to interact with these athletes helps them improve their understanding of unique healthcare needs and develop their interpersonal skills.”
Dianne Isnard, a Physical Therapist with Aurora Healthcare in Waukesha, brought her energy and heart to every event. She and Lois first teamed up in 2005 to launch FUNfitness in Wisconsin—and they’ve been growing the program ever since.
“My favorite memory?” Dianne laughed. “Telling an athlete he was strong, only for him to lift me off the ground to prove it! I was a foot in the air, asking him to put me down, and we were all cracking up. That moment brought joy to both of us.”
Driven by Passion and Purpose
Both Lois and Dianne have left a legacy that goes beyond screenings and assessments. They’ve built a model of compassionate care, trained hundreds of volunteers and students, and inspired a generation of healthcare providers to see ability before disability.
“My role as co-clinical director has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” Lois said. “Doing it with Dianne, one of my best friends, made it even more special. My sister Ann also volunteered every year—her support helped guide so many new volunteers.”
“I really appreciated the organization and support of Special Olympics Wisconsin for making the startup and continuation of FUNfitness events possible,” added Dianne. “And the camaraderie and professionalism our volunteers demonstrated made a lasting impression on me.”
Honoring a Legacy
Lois and Dianne stepped down from their leadership roles following the Spring Games FUNfitness event, and they reflected on the impact the program has had—and the people who made it meaningful.
“I will always cherish the smiles on the faces of these athletes as they succeed in their chosen sports,” Lois said. “And the dedication of the coaches and families who support them is incredible.”
“It has been a great blessing and honor to serve in this role,” Dianne said. “I’m especially grateful to Lois for her encouragement, kindness, and friendship over these 20 years.”
Thank You, Lois and Dianne!
Lois and Dianne have changed the landscape of inclusive health in Wisconsin. Their legacy will live on through every athlete they’ve empowered, every student they’ve mentored, and every life they’ve touched.
From all of us at Special Olympics Wisconsin: thank you for your service, your spirit, and your unwavering belief in the power of inclusion.
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