Ria Violano

North Haven, CT

Ria Violano is Assistant Head of Delegation (AHOD) for the Connecticut delegation going to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis. Ria lives in Hamden and is a Business Manager at United Health Group. She has been involved with Special Olympics for 20 years as the parent of an athlete, fan, coach, Unified Sports® partner, and the Local Coordinator for Special Olympics North Haven - a leadership position she currently holds. 

“Special Olympics changed my life in many different ways, especially by bringing (me) happiness and joy! I have a very extensive second family of athletes, Unified partners, and parents,” says Ria. 

Ria’s proudest moments have been when she’s watching her athletes do their best, overcome obstacles, and experience the pure joy of competing. Another proud moment was when her Local Program received the Local Program of the Year Award at the Special Olympics Connecticut Annual Awards Dinner this past year. 

Ria admires her family the most since they are her biggest accomplishment and the loves of her life. She also loves to cook and feed people. 

Ria attended the 2010 Special Olympics USA Games in Nebraska as a spectator to support her daughter who competed in swimming and the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games in New Jersey to cheer on her husband and son who were Unified partners competing in softball and basketball. Most recently, Ria was the Family Coordinator for the delegation that represented Connecticut at the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Florida.

“(Thinking about) attending the 2026 USA Games warms my heart,” said Ria. She looks forward to meeting the athletes, watching the competition, and seeing the smiles on their faces!