Mulry leads the way as International Volleyball Hall of Fame moves forward

George Mulry has a vision, one that guides and drives him every day.

In his role as executive director of the International Volleyball Hall of Famein Holyoke, Massachusetts, he sees his organization as THE one group that can tie the whole volleyball universe together. And he is bound and determined to see his vision come to fruition.

At first blush, Mulry might seem like an odd person to lead the Hall. Before taking the helm of the organization 11 years ago, he had no experience working at a non-profit. His professional background was as a local realtor. Meanwhile, his volleyball background was as an assistant coach for a Holyoke high school boys team.

He was not exactly out of central casting for a role that requires fund-raising expertise, international relations, and political acumen. 

And when he actually took over as executive director, he was thrust into the role, as they say, like a one-armed paper hanger.

“There had not been an executive director for two-plus years,” Mulry said.  “In that time, it was volunteer run. I had to spend some time cleaning things up and getting systems in place.”

That took up over two years of his tenure.

But from the get-go, Mulry actually turned out to be a perfect fit.

“George is one of the most easygoing, consistent reliable dedicated leaders I have ever worked with,” said Steve Bishop, president of the Hall’s board of Directors, and the Executive Director of the Florida Region of USA Volleyball. “George is calm, confident approach at the helm has been really key and instrumental in helping us move forward. He is very well-respected in the community and is one of those great non-profit leaders that we are proud to have on board.”

How many Angels can dance on the head of a pin? Mulry’s job is vast. For one, he is the only full-time employee at the Hall. He must rely on a bevy of volunteers, both in the community, and on the IVHOF Board to help him out, so persuasion is definitely one of his gifts.

“George is an affable guy who relates to folks on all levels,” said VolleyballMag.com editor Lee Feinswog, who is on the IVHF board of directors. “That makes him perfect for his job as he deals seamlessly with former players, media, money people and politicians. And he really loves our sport and has such strong passion for moving the Hall forward.”

Mulry has to navigate the murky waters of international volleyball with the FIVB and member federations. To…