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For more than 40 years, Lisa Carlone has carried the spirit of Special Olympics in everything she does. What began as a simple volunteer shift became a lifelong calling. She has lifted up athletes, inspired officers, strengthened communities, and created moments of joy that will live forever in the memories of thousands. We honor Lisa Carlone, a woman whose dedication has shaped the heart of Special Olympics Connecticut and the Connecticut Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Her journey with Special Olympics began as an IBM volunteer at Southern Connecticut State University, where she quickly stepped into leadership roles supporting athletes and volunteers. From that moment, she became a true champion for our athletes. In 1995, she served on the Special Olympics World Games Organizing Committee, managing volunteer services for one of the largest sporting events in Connecticut’s history.  Lisa joined Special Olympics Connecticut in 2006 as Director of Special Events and LETR Liaison, later becoming Senior Director of Special Projects. Her leadership helped grow our Torch Run into a statewide force, expanding events, elevating safety, strengthening partnerships, and inspiring agencies across Connecticut to join the movement and raise critical funds to support SOCT.

Lisa is a leader, a mentor, a role model, and above all, a friend to every athlete she serves. Her passion burns as brightly as the Flame of Hope and her legacy will continue to guide this movement for years to come.

Inducted into the CT LETR Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Chief Richard LaMonyon International LETR Hall of Fame in 2025, Lisa leaves a legacy defined by service, passion, and unwavering dedication to the athletes of Special Olympics. She built connections. She made people feel seen, valued, and loved; making every athlete feel like the most important person in the room. And they were, because to Lisa, they always are.

Her leadership reached across Connecticut, the country, and around the world. But what makes her exceptional isn’t just her accomplishments, it’s her kindness, her humility, and the way she always, always puts athletes first.

Her legacy lives in the smiles she created, the doors she opened, and the hope she carried like a torch across decades. Her flame has lit countless others, and we honor her with gratitude and love as she takes her next steps into her retirement!

Lisa Carlone – Retirement Honor Highlights

• Over 40 years of service to Special Olympics, beginning as an IBM volunteer at Southern Connecticut State University.
• Quickly emerged as a leader and mentor to volunteers and athletes, embodying the SOCT mission from day one.
• Joined the 1995 Special Olympics World Games Organizing Committee as Volunteer Services Manager, overseeing all volunteer recruitment and operations.
• In 2006, became SOCT Director of Special Events & LETR Liaison, later rising to Senior Director of Special Projects.
• 30 years formally involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR).

Statewide Impact & Achievements

• Nearly two decades shaping and growing the CT LETR, including Torch Runs, Polar Plunges, Super Plunge, and Cover the Cruiser.
• Central to growing Dream Ride from a local car show into a 3-day international experience involving hundreds of athletes and law enforcement officers.
• Oversaw Dream Ride logistics, security, travel, lodging, staffing, and food service—helping it generate $200,000–$250,000 annually for SOCT.
• Key architect in securing and maintaining major sponsors such as Bozzuto’s, Whelen Engineering, Bearingstar Insurance Charitable Fund, and WWE.
• Led CT LETR revenue growth by over 70%, and increased participating law enforcement agencies by 23%.
• Creator of the CT LETR Crisis Intervention Plan, now a statewide safety standard for all Torch Run events.
• Inducted into the CT LETR Hall of Fame (2019).

National & International Leadership

• Lead liaison for the 2009 LETR International Conference, hosting 1,000+ attendees from around the world.
• Invited to join the International Conference Planning Committee in 2011; became Production Manager in 2016.
• Oversees all main ballroom presentations—scripting, staging, AV, rehearsals—for every International Conference.
• Played critical roles in multiple LETR Final Legs, including 2015 (California), 2022 USA Games, 2023 Berlin, and 2025 Italy.
• Known globally for impeccable organization, tireless energy, and elevating the quality of international LETR events.

Personal Leadership & Legacy

• Regarded as a mentor, role model, and trusted leader to athletes, officers, volunteers, and colleagues across CT and around the world.
• Famous for her boundless energy, unwavering compassion, and “lead from the front” approach—taking on any task, big or small.
• Has dedicated hundreds of hours annually to LETR initiatives, always putting athletes at the center.
• Leaves behind a legacy of strong relationships, meaningful partnerships, and a global reputation for excellence.
• Her passion for LETR burns as brightly as the Flame of Hope, inspiring all who have been privileged to work alongside her.