Rhett Evans to conclude tenure as GCSAA CEO in 2027

Rhett Evans, chief executive officer of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), will conclude his tenure Sept. 29, 2027, following nearly two decades of leadership and service to the association and the golf course management profession.

Evans will continue to serve as CEO throughout the transition period, providing organizational leadership, strategic oversight and direction for the association’s initiatives, member programs and industry partnerships.

Evans helped guide GCSAA through a period of growth and expanded influence across the golf industry during his tenure. This included 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 allow for a thoughtful and strategic leadership succession process while holding continuity across the association, its membership and the broader golf industry.

“It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve this association, its members and the golf course management profession,” Evans said. “I care deeply about GCSAA, the people within this organization 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.”

In collaboration with 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.

“Rhett has led this association as CEO with vision, passion and integrity for many years,” said GCSAA President Paul L. Carter, CGCS. “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 organization the ability to approach the future thoughtfully while continuing to build on the momentum GCSAA has established.”

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

“GCSAA has meant a tremendous amount to me and my family and will always hold a special place in my life and career,” Evans said. “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.”

Additional details regarding the succession process and future leadership decisions will be announced at a later date.