Debbie Hesse, a veteran Olympic family executive, was introduced Wednesday as executive director of USA Gymnastics.
FORT WORTH, Texas (May 29, 2024) – Veteran Olympic family executive Debbie Hesse was announced Wednesday as the new executive director of USA Gymnastics. USA Gymnastics President and CEO Li Li Leong made the announcement during a speech at the Xfinity USA Gymnastics Championships, where she also unveiled the association’s new logo.
Hesse brings a track record of organizational growth and impact to his new role. He served as Executive Director of USA Swimming from 2010-2019, where he oversaw a 350% increase in the annual budget and a $10 million increase in endowment. During Hesse’s tenure, the “Make a Splash” initiative expanded to teach approximately 2 million children to swim each year.
During his time as president and CEO of USA Diving from 2007 to 2010, membership increased 39 percent and the organization’s sponsorship and broadcast revenues more than doubled. Hesse also served as executive director of USA Synchronized Swimming from 1994 to 2001, where he increased its annual budget by more than 250 percent. A former president and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana, Hesse most recently served as assistant vice president of the Texas A&M Foundation, where he raised more than $18 million.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have Debbie as the Foundation’s Executive Director,” said USA Gymnastics Foundation President Christine Allen. “Her deep understanding of philanthropy within the Olympic movement and her incredible track record of success are a great fit for the Foundation and its mission.”
Formerly known as the United States Gymnastics Foundation and founded out of the excitement generated by the success of the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the USA Gymnastics Foundation supports the sport of gymnastics while serving as the charitable arm of USA Gymnastics. Through charitable giving and investments, the Foundation and its Board of Directors provide donors with the opportunity to support the areas of the sport they are most passionate about.
“I am thrilled to join the USA Gymnastics Foundation at a time when gymnastics is once again in the Olympic spotlight,” said Hesse. “Providing an avenue for individuals and foundations to support gymnastics and its athletes in meaningful ways is critical to the growth of the sport, from the grassroots level all the way to the top of the podium.”
Under Hesse’s leadership, the Foundation will focus its giving on helping athletes pursue their dreams at all levels of the sport, accelerating the growth of gymnastics nationally and enhancing the health and safety of athletes.
“Success looks different for every athlete, and the Foundation is here to support each and every athlete on their journey to success,” Allen said. “By supporting excellence and wellness both in and out of the gym, we can ensure the sport continues its vibrant and growing trajectory.”
To learn more about the USA Gymnastics Foundation or to donate, visit https://usagymfoundation.org/
