The Adirondack Sports Council (ADKSC) announced today Karlan Devlin-Jessen as its new executive director. Devlin-Jessen succeeds Tracy Smith, who after nearly two years at the helm of the ADKSC has been appointed director of events for the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA).
“We are thrilled to welcome Karlan Devlin-Jessen as our new executive director,” said James McKenna, chair of the ADKSC Board. “Karlan’s extensive leadership experience, innovative vision, and dedication to using sports tourism as an economic driver will elevate the Sports Council to new heights throughout the Adirondacks and beyond.”
Devlin-Jessen has been a key member of the ADKSC team since April 2021, playing a pivotal role in the lead-up to the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games. During her tenure, she spearheaded the Games’ legacy and sustainability initiatives, including the development of a globally recognized sustainability strategy, the first of its kind for any FISU Games. She also organized the FISU World Conference which featured over 40 international speakers.
With over 30 years of experience in sports and event management, Devlin-Jessen is recognized for her ability to merge strategic project management with stakeholder engagement and organizational leadership. Her portfolio includes a career that began in the marketing department with ORDA in the late 1980’s. More recently she served as director of operational efficiency for the 2024 IIHF Women’s World Championships, director of volunteers and sustainability for the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games, director of the courage classic Bicycle Tour, community engagement manager for REI, and as a multi-store retail business owner.
As executive director, Devlin-Jessen will lead the ADKSC in its mission to harness the power of sports to inspire sustainable communities and foster regional growth.
“I’m excited to collaborate with regional leaders to continue producing world-class events, support sport development, expand access to sports, and attract premier events to the Adirondacks,” said Devlin-Jessen.
The ADKSC, a 501(c)(3) organization, serves as the official organizing committee for major events, including the Empire State Winter Games, the Wilmington Whiteface 100k and 50k Mountain Bike Races, the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival in Schroon Lake, and the Tupper Lake Tinman Triathlon. The council also offers event consultancy, rentals, and staffing services.