Lawrence, Kansas, United States: Rhett Evans will conclude his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) in September 2027 following nearly two decades of leadership and service to the association and the golf course management profession.

Evans will continue serving fully as CEO throughout the transition period, providing organisational leadership, strategic oversight, and direction for the association’s on-going initiatives, member programmes and industry partnerships.

During his tenure, Evans helped guide GCSAA through a period of growth and expanded influence across the golf industry, including strengthened partnerships, enhanced advocacy efforts, increased member engagement, educational and career development initiatives, and continued leadership in environmental stewardship. 

The transition timeline was developed collaboratively between Evans and the GCSAA Board of Directors to provide ample time for a thoughtful and strategic leadership succession process while maintaining continuity across the association, its membership and the broader golf industry.

Evans said: “It has been one of the greatest honours of my life to serve this association, its members and the golf course management profession. I care deeply about GCSAA, the people within this organisation and the golf industry as a whole. GCSAA has an incredibly bright future, and because the association is operating from such a strong position today, this is the right time to begin a thoughtful and well-planned leadership transition.”

Working alongside GCSAA members, volunteer leaders and staff, the association has continued to elevate its visibility, influence and reputation throughout the golf industry and the communities it serves.

GCSAA President Paul Carter said: “Rhett has led this association as CEO with vision, passion and integrity for many years. As the longest-tenured CEO in GCSAA’s 100-year history, his impact on the association, our members and the profession has been significant. He will certainly be missed in this role.

“We also have a number of important initiatives underway, including the completion of GCSAA’s Centennial year and several long-term strategic priorities that Rhett will continue to lead during this transition period. This timeline gives the organisation the ability to approach the future thoughtfully while continuing to build on the momentum GCSAA has established.”

During the transition period, Evans will maintain his regular travel schedule, industry engagement, leadership responsibilities, and on-going work on behalf of the association while also working closely with the GCSAA Board of Directors to help ensure a smooth and successful leadership transition.

Evans said: “GCSAA has meant a tremendous amount to me and my family and will always hold a special place in my life and career. While this transition represents the closing of one chapter, I am excited about the next chapter ahead and future opportunities to lead, encourage, and help make a positive difference in the lives of others. It has been an incredible run, and I look forward to continuing to serve GCSAA over the next year and finishing strong.”

Evans’s replacement as CEO is to be announced at a later date.