Diane Wasley’s journey began with a passion for education and advocacy. She majored in public health at Northern Arizona University, where she discovered her calling to support individuals of all abilities and promote inclusion. Today, Diane serves as an Athlete Leader at Special Olympics Arizona (SOAZ), a position that allows her to inspire others while creating meaningful change in her community.
Diane’s decision to work with SOAZ was deeply personal. Growing up, she didn’t always experience inclusion, and that absence motivated her to help create a world where everyone feels valued and empowered. She was drawn to SOAZ’s mission of championing inclusion and to its profound impact as the largest public health organization serving individuals with intellectual disabilities. Her internships with Special Olympics Arizona solidified her commitment to this mission, and after working hard to prove herself, she earned a permanent role with Special Olympics Arizona.
Throughout her time with SOAZ, Diane has embraced opportunities to grow personally and professionally. She credits the supportive staff for encouraging her to step out of her comfort zone and try new things. One of her proudest moments was playing basketball for the first time. Having never participated in a team sport, she embodied the Special Olympics motto: “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave at the attempt.” That brave attempt marked a turning point in her life, inspiring her to challenge herself, grow, and pursue experiences she once thought were out of reach.
Currently, Diane is working on the Better Money Habits core program, which helps athletes develop essential money management skills. She is also preparing for the upcoming summer conference, which focuses on athlete leadership. Additionally, she co-hosts the Unified Partner Training with the UCS department, a role she is especially proud of due to the growing demand for this training. Diane also designed the first sensory room for SOAZ, introducing a new element of inclusivity and accessibility that had not previously existed in SOAZ competitions. She continues to develop this initiative in her new role with athlete leadership.
Amid all these experiences, one of the most meaningful aspects of Diane’s journey has been the partnership she shares with Saul, her Athlete Leadership partner. She is incredibly thankful for his patience, support, and the time they have spent together. While she deeply values everyone she works with, she is extremely grateful for her partnership with Saul. His patience and support mean the world to her, and she treasures their time working together.
The SOAZ staff have been instrumental in her success, even attending her graduation—a moment she will always treasure. Since graduating from Northern Arizona University, Diane will celebrate her one-year anniversary with SOAZ in March. Reflecting on her journey, Diane is profoundly grateful to her teammates and the organization that has supported her every step of the way. SOAZ not only helped her complete her degree but also inspired her to dream bigger and bolder as she continues working to build a more inclusive world.
