Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame Announces Key Executive Leadership Changes Promotes Kendra Forsythe to Chief Financial Officer; Names Sara Mitchell as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Marketing Officer
The Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (WBHOF) today announced key changes to its executive leadership team, promoting Kendra Forsythe, CPA, to Chief Financial Officer and naming Sara Mitchell as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Marketing Officer. The leadership appointments represent an important step in advancing the WBHOF’s long-term strategic vision and strengthening its position as a nationally recognized organization dedicated to honoring, celebrating and promoting the past, present and future of women’s basketball.
Since joining the WBHOF as CEO in July, Michelle Marciniak has been evaluating the organization’s structure, priorities and opportunities to fulfill its mission and expand its impact. “Great organizations are built by great teams, and that starts with the right people in the right seats,” Marciniak said. “Kendra has earned this. Her financial leadership and deep commitment to our mission give us a strong foundation to grow from, and I’m excited to have her at the table as we build what’s ahead for the Hall.”
Forsythe is a Certified Public Accountant with nearly two decades of experience in finance, accounting, operations and strategic leadership across corporate, consulting, professional services and mission- driven organizations. She began her career with EY before joining Coulter & Justus, P.C., and later served as VP of Finance & Operations for Shelton Group, Inc., helping guide the company through its acquisition by ERM in 2022. In her expanded role as CFO, Forsythe will oversee the Hall’s financial strategy while supporting the organization’s broader growth and strategic objectives.
“Sara brings a unique combination of marketing experience, operational leadership, creativity and a deep understanding of sports,” Marciniak said. “I have worked with Sara in a variety of capacities for nearly 10 years and have seen firsthand her ability to lead operations and marketing efforts on a national level. Her talent is a tremendous addition to the Hall, and we can’t wait to make significant advances as we continue to promote and elevate women’s basketball.”
Mitchell joins the Hall following a career as a television personality and entrepreneur. She founded an international marketing agency where she combined creativity, strategy and leadership to help brands grow and thrive. She made history as the first female Vol Reporter for the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Athletics Department. Her experience spans media, marketing, communications and brand development, with a focus on creating compelling platforms and experiences that connect audiences with sports and organizations. She has served on the Board of Directors for Pedal for Alzheimer’s and currently serves on the Selection Committee for the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame. As Chief Operating Officer and Chief Marketing Officer, she will help lead the Hall’s day-to-day operations, marketing strategy, brand development and national growth initiatives. Together, Forsythe and Mitchell will play key roles in strengthening the organization’s infrastructure, expanding its reach and supporting the vision for the future of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
For more information about the WBHOF or to speak with a representative, contact Zadie Fiveash at [email protected].
About the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame
Founded in 1999, the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (WBHOF), located in Knoxville, Tennessee, honors the greatest players, coaches, contributors and officials in women’s basketball history. The WBHOF is the only facility solely dedicated to women’s basketball, recognizing excellence globally at all levels of the sport. The WBHOF works to preserve the legacy of women’s basketball through its museum, educational programming, special events and annual induction ceremony. For more information, visit wbhof.com or follow @wbhof on social media.
