Jupiter, Fla. (January 7, 2026) — The National Golf Foundation (NGF) has announced the election of Stephen Donnell and Tom Pashley to its Board of Directors, effective at the start of 2026. The additions further diversify NGF’s board and strengthen the organization’s mission to support the growth and vitality of the golf industry through data, research, and strategic insight.
Donnell has been the President of Yamaha Golf-Car Company since 2022, expanding its presence as a global supplier of golf cars and mobility solutions, and strengthening its reputation for innovation, reliability, and customer service within the golf and resort markets. Donnell has nearly three decades of golf industry experience, with an extensive background in golf operations, club management, and multicourse operations, and is a trusted vendor partner to golf facilities and organizations nationwide.
“I am truly honored to join the NGF Board of Directors, a prestigious group of industry leaders representing a diverse range of segments within the golf industry,” Donnell said. “I look forward to learning from this distinguished group and contributing thoughtfully to advancing the foundation’s mission and long-term impact.”
Pashley serves as President of Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina, where he has played a key role in elevating Pinehurst’s position as one of the game’s most iconic destinations.
“Golf has given me so much professionally and personally, and the NGF has long helped the industry understand the forces shaping the game and its future,” said Pashley. “I’m honored to join the Board and excited to support an organization that provides trusted leadership for the business of golf.”
Pashley has overseen significant developments across the resort’s golf and hospitality operations, including the opening of The Cradle short course, the buildout of Pinehurst’s new Sandmines property, and the partnership with the USGA that positioned Pinehurst as the first anchor site for future U.S. Open Championships.
“We’re delighted to welcome Stephen and Tom to the NGF Board,” said Greg Nathan, NGF President & Chief Executive Officer. “Both bring deep experience, proven leadership, and a clear passion for the game and business of golf. Their perspectives will help us continue to serve the industry with integrity, insight, and innovation.”
As the only organization in the game that works with the leading businesses in every sector, the NGF board is designed to be representative of the industry. In addition to Nathan, the NGF’s Board of Directors also includes GOLFTEC President & CEO Joe Assell, NGF Executive Chairman Joe Beditz, AHEAD CEO Anne Broholm, TORO President & COO Edric Funk, TMRW Sports founder & CEO Mike McCarley, Troon President & CEO Tim Schantz, and PING President & CEO John K. Solheim.
Former Topgolf executive Geoff Cottrill and LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler departed the NGF Board at the end of 2025 after several years of service and valued contributions to the organization.
About the NGF
Founded in 1936, the National Golf Foundation is a dynamic membership organization supported and trusted by thousands of golf related businesses and individuals who rely on NGF to provide the most up-to-date, accurate and objective insights on the state of the game and business of golf. It is the only trade association for everyone in the golf business, advocating for growth by educating and connecting its members. NGF is also the leading marketing services provider in golf, leveraging a database of 3 million golfers and the industry’s most comprehensive worldwide database of golf facilities. Additionally, NGF’s research arm works with individual companies to help them better understand their markets and grow their businesses. If you’re not among the hundreds of businesses that help support NGF’s ongoing research efforts through membership, we invite you to join the community.
Contact:
Erik Matuszewski
National Golf Foundation
Editorial Director
(561) 354-1637
(609) 577-0652
erikm@ngf.org