GCSAA Senior Director Shelia Finney Announces Retirement

News Summary

Shelia Finney, the Senior Director of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), has announced her retirement effective April 3, 2026. Her tenure has significantly shaped member services and leadership within the golf community. Finney’s commitment to the industry has fostered connections and driven initiatives to enhance workforce development. With gratitude for her career, she plans to continue engaging with the industry post-retirement, ensuring a smooth transition for her successor while leaving a lasting impact on the GCSAA.

Senior Director of GCSAA Announces Upcoming Retirement

Saying Goodbye After a Career in Golf

After a vibrant and fulfilling journey, longtime golf industry leader Shelia Finney has announced her retirement, set to take effect on April 3, 2026. This marks a notable moment for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) and everyone who has had the pleasure of working alongside her over the years.

A Wealth of Experience

Joining GCSAA in 2016, Finney not only brought with her a wealth of experience from her previous role as superintendent at Gaylord Springs Golf Links, where she dedicated 25 years, but she also came in with 35 years of membership under her belt. Her deep-rooted connection with the industry has undeniably shaped her approach to member services, making her a beloved figure within the community.

Leadership Across the Board

Before stepping into her role at GCSAA, Finney served as executive director of the Tennessee Golf Course Superintendents Association and the Tennessee Turfgrass Association, showcasing her commitment to the profession both at the state level and nationally. Additionally, her participation in task groups and committees formed within GCSAA highlights her hands-on approach to governance and member engagement.

Finney’s efforts extended significantly into grassroots initiatives as a GCSAA Grassroots Ambassador, where she fostered relationships and connections within the community. For an impressive 11 years, she also took on the responsibilities of a chapter delegate, bridging the gap between the GCSAA and local chapters across the country.

Prioritizing Member Services

As senior director of member programs at GCSAA, Finney was at the forefront of initiatives that enhanced membership, chapter services, and career development. Her leadership and strategic vision also encompassed workforce development, reflecting her understanding of the shifting landscape of the golf industry and the need for well-prepared professionals.

Not limited to administrative roles, she embraced programs such as the First Green program, which aims to enhance the relationship between golf and education, particularly with organizations like the Future Farmers of America (FFA). Finney’s impact on educational outreach has helped ensure the next generation appreciates the importance of golf course management while expanding its reach into younger audiences.

Stepping into Retirement, but Staying Connected

With retirement on the horizon, Finney expressed gratitude for the career she’s built within the golf industry. Although stepping back from her official duties at GCSAA, she plans to remain connected in a meaningful fashion, which speaks volumes about her passion for the industry and commitment to its advancement.

As her retirement date approaches, recruitment for her successor will kick off soon. Notably, Finney will assist in the onboarding of the new hire, ensuring a smooth transition. This act further exemplifies her dedication to the GCSAA and its members, even as she prepares to return to her home in Tennessee.

Looking Ahead

Her impending departure might mark the end of an era for GCSAA, but Shelia Finney leaves behind a legacy of passion, leadership, and genuine care for golf course management. For those who have had the opportunity to work with her, it has been a remarkable experience, and her contributions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the association and the entire golf community.

So, as we celebrate what she has accomplished, we also look forward to following what comes next—not just for Finney, but for the GCSAA as it continues to grow and serve its members under new leadership. Here’s to a successful retirement ahead—and to the exciting times that lie in store for both Shelia Finney and the future of the golf industry!

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