Tom Norwalk

RESUME: President & CEO, Visit Seattle

WHY DID YOU WANT TO BE ON THE BOARD? Our organization is the destination marketing group for the city and country. When the 2018 USA Special Olympics came up in discussions I knew it would be one of the best type events we could ever host. For everything Seattle is about as a City of Inclusion and a welcoming city it’s going to be a very meaningful event. That’s why I decided to get involved.

WHAT SPORTS HAVE YOU PLAYED? I played every sport through high school in Seattle. Now, I’m primarily a runner and terrible golfer.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED FROM SPORTS THAT YOU’VE APPLIED TO YOUR CAREER? Hard work, for sure. There are no short cuts to being good. The ability to listen to and follow advice from a coach and the willingness to make some changes in what you’re doing. Having an attitude of success and being a part of a team. That’s a huge part of everything.

WHAT WILL IT MEAN FOR SEATTLE TO HOST THE GAMES? It will be a wonderful economic impact on the city. I think the games also have the chance to bring people together in different ways. We have respect for everyone and we welcome and are available for everyone and the games will allow us to demonstrate and celebrate that.

WHAT SHOULD ATHLETES SEE WHEN THEY VISIT SEATTLE? You’ve got to see on of America’s great treasures; The Pike Place Market. It’s being expanded and that expansion will be done when the games arrive. Our attractions at Seattle Center are phenomenal and the waterfront is a great place to visit, particularly the Olympic Sculpture Park.