Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC)

2025 Honorees

Congratulations to the 2025 Honorees!

Bill Shumard Hall of Fame Inductee
Irwin Rosenberg

Jim Gardiner Unsung Hero
Ryan LeBaron

Excellence in Leadership
Ian Parkinson

Rockstar
Aaron Schafer

Athlete of the Year
Thomas Selbe

2025 Bill Shumard Hall of Fame Inductee - Special Olympics Southern California
2025 Bill Shumard Hall of Fame Inductee

Irwin Rosenberg

Police Commander
San Fernando Police Department

Irwin’s journey with Special Olympics began at a young age when he cheered on his cousin, Joannie, at a Special Olympics event. Little did he know then that he would later become a devoted volunteer with the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR).

In 2015, Irwin was invited by his Chief to help organize and coordinate the City of San Fernando’s celebration of the World Games Final Leg of the Torch Run. His enthusiasm and commitment were evident as thousands gathered to watch the procession, which featured police and fire departments, a mariachi band, and the city’s elected officials. The success of this event marked the beginning of Irwin’s deep involvement in LETR.

Jim Gardiner Unsung Hero

Ryan LeBaron

Deputy Chief
Long Beach Police Department

Ryan LeBaron has participated in the Torch Run for the past 15 years. He has worked for the Long Beach Police Department since 2000. He currently holds the rank of Commander and is assigned to the Professional Standards Division. The joy of his life is being married to his wife Christine of 25 years and spending time with their seven children. The ages range from 6-22 years and his youngest two children both have Down syndrome. They are Chinese and were adopted shortly after birth. One of the best aspects of Special Olympics and LETR for Ryan is how it seamlessly connects his passion and love for family, work, and Special Olympics. 

Excellence in Leadership Award

Ian Parkinson

Sheriff-Coroner
San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department

Ian Parkinson has been involved with the Touch Run for over twenty years. He first learned of LETR through his then Police Chief. His Chief was the parent of a Special Olympic athlete and taught Ian the value of involvement in this issue. Sheriff Parkinson has participated in Tip a Cop locally since it began in his County. He has also had the honor and privilege of being selected to participate in the World Games Law Enforcement Torch Run in Abu Dhabi and in Germany.

He has encouraged every member of his agency to participate. He has seen how law enforcement’s involvement not only effects the athlete’s life but also enriches the lives of his employees. Ian is often recognized by athletes in the area and is met with a long hug. These moments remind him of the value of his participation and the amazing hearts of the athletes.

2025 Bill Shumard Hall of Fame Awards Rockstar Honoree, Aaron Schafer
Rockstar

Aaron Schafer

Lieutenant
San Luis Obispo Police Department

Aaron Schafer has been passionate about supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities since
childhood. At age 11, he began as a “buddy” in the Little League Baseball Challenger Division and continued advocating for inclusion through leadership roles in high
school. After earning a business marketing degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 2004 and a teaching credential in business and math from Cal State Fullerton, Aaron taught high school for two years, working closely with students with intellectual disabilities.

His advocacy also extended through his wife’s career in special education. Aaron joined the San Luis Obispo Police Department in 2007, advancing from patrol and specialized roles to his current position as a Lieutenant in the investigations division. A dedicated supporter of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Southern California, Aaron has organized impactful fundraising events, including the annual Mega Tip-A-Cop dinners, raising over $70,000 annually, and a successful LETR/SOSC Golf Tournament at the San Luis Obispo Country Club.

2025 Bill Shumard Hall of Fame Athlete of the Year
Meet the Athlete of the Year

Thomas Selbe

Thomas Selbe, a Global Messenger and athlete from San Diego, has been an integral part of SOSC for over a decade, earning recognition as a bronze medalist in floor hockey at the World Games in Austria. He is a passionate advocate for individuals with special needs and autism, consistently volunteering to mentor fellow athletes in developing their own Global Messenger skills. 

With his strong leadership qualities and public speaking abilities, Thomas has become a rising star within the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) council and the broader community, all while exemplifying dedication through his work at Goodwill in Santee, CA. He and his mother, Beth, actively share their story to inspire and help others, making him truly deserving of the accolades he receives.

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