Hesse named executive director of new-look USA Gymnastics Foundation


FORT WORTH, Texas (May 29, 2024) – Veteran Olympic family executive Debbie Hesse on Wednesday was introduced as executive director of the USA Gymnastics Foundation. USA Gymnastics President & CEO Li Li Leung made the announcement as part of her remarks at the Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics Championships, also revealing a new logo for the Foundation.

Hesse brings a history of expansive organizational growth and impact to her new position. As the executive director of the USA Swimming Foundation from 2010-2019, she oversaw an annual budgetary increase of 350% and an endowment growth of $10 million. The “Make a Splash” initiative under her tenure expanded to teach nearly 2 million children to swim each year.

While president and CEO of USA Diving from 2007-2010, membership increased by 39 percent and the organization more than doubled sponsorship and broadcast revenues. Hesse also was executive director of USA Synchronized Swimming from 1994-2001, where she increased the annual budget by more than 250%. The former President and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana, Hesse most recently served as assistant vice president of the Texas A&M Foundation, raising more than $18M.

“We are so fortunate to welcome Debbie as the Foundation’s executive director,” said USA Gymnastics Foundation board chair Kristin Allen. “Her deep understanding of philanthropy in the Olympic movement and her incredible track record of success make her a great fit for the Foundation and its mission.”

Formerly known as the National Gymnastics Foundation and created from 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 philanthropic arm to USA Gymnastics. Through charitable giving and investments, the Foundation and its board of directors align donors with the opportunity to support areas of the sport in which they are most passionate.

“I couldn’t be more excited to join the USA Gymnastics Foundation during a time when Gymnastics is once again in the Olympic spotlight,” Hesse said. “Providing a pathway for individuals and foundations to support gymnastics and its athletes in meaningful ways is important for the growth of the sport, from grassroots all the way to the top of the podium.”

Under Hesse’s leadership, the Foundation will focus on giving that helps athletes pursue their dreams at all levels of the sport, accelerates the growth of gymnastics nationwide, and empowers athlete health and safety.

“Success looks different for every athlete, and the Foundation is here to help support every athlete’s journey,” Allen said. “Supporting excellence and well-being both in and out of the gym will sustain the sport on its vibrant trajectory of growth.”