LPGA Board of Directors elects Mollie Marcoux Samaan as LPGA Commissioner, Marcoux Samaan brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in sports and business
Marcoux Samaan, currently Ford Family Director of Athletics at Princeton University, will become the ninth Commissioner of the LPGA since its formation in 1950. She will succeed Commissioner Mike Whan who notified the LPGA Board late last year of his intent to step down in 2021. Whan was recently announced as the next Chief Executive Officer of the USGA. Marcoux Samaan will be working with the LPGA Board and the University to transition to her new role in the months ahead.
The appointment comes after extensive search process
Diane Gulyas, Chair of the LPGA Board of Directors and the Search Committee said:
“Our selection of Mollie Marcoux Samaan as the LPGA’s next Commissioner is the outcome of an extensive and deliberate search process. The position attracted a diverse group of outstanding internal and external candidates, all passionate about the LPGA. We concluded that Mollie is the right leader to guide the LPGA’s next chapter of growth, impact and achievement.
“Mollie understands the power of golf to change the lives of girls and women. As a values-centered leader, she’s known for her skills in collaboration, managing through complexity and building a winning team culture. In every role, she’s had an outstanding record of performance in navigating change, forging lasting partnerships, and seeing – and seizing – new opportunities."
Juli Inkster was part of the Search Committee
Juli Inkster, World and LPGA Hall of Famer and a member of the Search Committee added:
“Our search process was disciplined and thorough. We were impressed and honoured by the large number of quality leaders interested in the LPGA. But in the end, Mollie stood above the rest. We were impressed by her track record working with athletes; with her ability to forge new and innovative partnerships; and with her personal passion, authenticity and proven persistence for excellence.”
"LPGA Commissioner is one of the best roles in sport"
On her new role as LPGA Commissioner Marcoux Samaan said:
“The LPGA Commissioner role is one of the best jobs in sports today and the opportunity of a lifetime. I’m passionate about the game of golf and have been an LPGA fan since I was a little girl. I appreciate the LPGA’s history and the tenacity of its 13 Founders. I’m truly inspired by our Tour players and teaching professionals. I’m excited to dive into the LPGA initiatives to impact women and girls in the game at every age and ability. And, to learn about and contribute to all aspects of the LPGA’s business.
“I believe passionately that sports have the power to change the world. And in this moment in time – with the positive energy around women’s sports, women’s leadership and society’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion – I believe the LPGA has an incredible opportunity to use our platform for positive change."
Providing opportunities for women and girls to achieve their dreams
Marcoux Samaan contintued:
‘I’ve devoted my career to developing character, confidence and opportunities through sports. My mission and the LPGA’s mission are fully aligned: providing women and girls the opportunity to achieve their dreams through golf.
“Under the leadership of Mike Whan and the executive team, the LPGA is strongly positioned for continued growth and impact. I’ll look forward to working with Mike and the leadership team to meet the many people and organizations that have been so integral to the LPGA’s success. With its committed sponsors and fans, talented players and members, and exceptional staff and Board, my role will be to continue the positive momentum and increase opportunities, awareness, impact and respect for the LPGA worldwide."
Marcoux Samaan has Mike Whan's backing
Mike Whan, outgoing LPGA Commissioner, commented on Marcoux Samaan's appointment:
“I’m excited and enthused to hand the baton to Mollie. With her vision and the strength of the existing LPGA leadership team, the Association is poised for incredible growth. I’m fully committed to being Mollie’s biggest cheerleader and supporter, as she takes the LPGA to new heights.”
Exciting times ahead for the new LPGA Commissioner, she will certainly have big shoes to fill and here at Women & Golf we are looking forward to seeing the LPGA Tour continue to go from strength to strength.