Timothy Perry Shriver
Biography
Education and Early Life
Timothy Perry Shriver was born on August 29, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois. He is the fourth child of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Sargent Shriver, and a nephew of President John F. Kennedy. Timothy attended Canterbury School before enrolling at Yale University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in 1981. He subsequently returned to Yale to earn a doctorate in education, reflecting a deep commitment to the academic and institutional dimensions of social change.
Leadership of Special Olympics
Timothy Shriver has devoted much of his professional life to Special Olympics International, the organization his mother Eunice founded in 1968. He assumed the chairmanship in 1996 and has since guided the organization through a period of substantial global expansion. Under his leadership, Special Olympics has grown into one of the world's largest sports organizations for people with intellectual disabilities, operating in more than 190 countries and reaching millions of athletes.
In 2014, Timothy published 'Fully Alive: Discovering What Matters Most,' a memoir and philosophical meditation that draws on his experiences with Special Olympics athletes to explore questions of meaning, identity, and human potential. The book received wide praise for its emotional depth and moral seriousness.
Beyond Special Olympics, Timothy has been active in education reform and conflict resolution initiatives, teaching at Yale and serving on various boards. He embodies the Shriver-Kennedy family tradition of marrying public service with personal conviction.
Family Context
Timothy Perry Shriver is the child of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and R. Sargent Shriver Jr.. They married Linda Potter and had 5 children: Sophia Rose Shriver, Timothy Shriver Jr., Samuel Kennedy Shriver, Kathleen Frances Shriver, Caroline Elizabeth Shriver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Timothy Shriver's role at Special Olympics?
Timothy Shriver has served as Chairman of Special Olympics International since 1996. He took over leadership of the organization founded by his mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, and has overseen its expansion to more than 190 countries.
What book did Timothy Shriver write?
Timothy Shriver wrote 'Fully Alive: Discovering What Matters Most,' published in 2014. The book is a memoir and reflection on meaning and human dignity, drawing heavily on his decades of experience working alongside Special Olympics athletes.