Shelia Finney to retire from GCSAA after decades of industry leadership
Shelia Finney, senior director of member programs for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), will retire effective April 3, 2026, concluding a distinguished career spanning four decades in the golf and turfgrass industry. Finney’s tenure — both as a superintendent and association leader — has made a lasting impact on the profession and the organization.
Finney joined GCSAA staff in 2016 but has been a member for 35 years, deeply tied with the association. Prior to her staff role, she served as superintendent at Gaylord Springs Golf Links in Nashville, Tenn., for 25 years and was executive director of both the Tennessee GCSAA and the Tennessee Turfgrass Association. Her leadership extended to multiple GCSAA task groups and committees, and she was a longtime chapter delegate and Grassroots Ambassador.
As senior director of member programs, Finney managed four critical areas: membership, chapter services, learning and career development and workforce development. She was instrumental in advancing the First Green program and strengthening GCSAA’s relationship with the National FFA Organization.
GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans praised Finney’s dedication, noting her dual perspective as a superintendent and chapter executive uniquely enhanced member services.
“Her passion and diligence in serving GCSAA members has left an indelible mark on the association,” Evans said.
Finney plans to return to her native Tennessee but will remain connected to GCSAA. Finney will assist with onboarding her successor.
“I’m ready to embrace new adventures, but I’m not going far,” she said. “GCSAA has been a big part of my life, and I plan to stay involved and connected to this incredible community wherever I can be helpful.”
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