Her Story
About Kelli
Kelli Elmore is the Tournament Resources Director for the Wichita Open, a PGA Tour Americas golf event held annually in Wichita, Kansas. With more than a decade of involvement in the tournament, Elmore has played an integral role in the event’s growth and success, contributing since 2010 and transitioning into her full-time leadership role in 2023. Her responsibilities include overseeing tournament operations from concept through completion, developing and executing sponsorship opportunities, coordinating volunteers, and building strong relationships with sponsors and community partners. Through her dedication to event management and stakeholder engagement, Elmore helps deliver a premier professional golf experience while showcasing Wichita’s hospitality and community spirit.
Elmore’s passion for sports began at an early age, with golf becoming a lifelong interest after she first picked up a club at age seven. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education with an emphasis in sports management and a business minor from the University of Kansas in 2012, followed by a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in sports management from Wichita State University in 2014. Her career has included roles in sports communications, athletic administration, and event management, allowing her to develop expertise in operations, sponsorship fulfillment, and large-scale event coordination. She is also actively involved with the Wichita Chamber and continues to support initiatives that strengthen the local sports and business community.
Outside of her professional role, Elmore is dedicated to family, wellness, and giving back. She enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, supporting their involvement in youth sports, especially soccer, while also making time for golf, fitness, and personal wellness activities. She contributes to causes close to her heart, including KU Wichita Pediatrics, the beneficiary of the Wichita Open, and Blood Cancer United. Elmore credits her success to her passion for sports, the encouragement of her husband and parents, and the strong work ethic they instilled in her. Guided by values of communication, trust, loyalty, and transparency, she continues to inspire others through her commitment to excellence, community impact, and creating meaningful experiences through sports.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kelli
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for sports, my dedication to hard work, and the support of the people who have believed in me along the way. I have loved golf since I was seven years old, and being part of sporting events allows me to work in a field I truly enjoy. My husband has been a tremendous source of support, and my parents instilled in me the importance of determination, perseverance, and putting in the effort needed to achieve my goals.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to gain experience in any way possible, whether through volunteering, internships, or opportunities that may not initially seem like a perfect fit. Every experience can teach you something valuable and help you build the skills and connections needed for future opportunities. I have also learned the importance of networking, maintaining relationships, and making meaningful connections that can help guide and advance your career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the sports industry is to believe in themselves, stand confidently in their ideas, and never be afraid to speak up. Gaining experience through volunteering and taking initiative can open doors and help build valuable relationships. The connections you make throughout your career can create opportunities you may not have expected, so it is important to be engaged, prepared, and willing to learn.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating uncertainty, including changes within the PGA Tour and factors like unpredictable weather conditions, especially extreme heat in Kansas. At the same time, there are incredible opportunities to showcase Wichita, highlight Midwest hospitality, and bring more attention to the community through major sporting events. I see these opportunities as a chance to create memorable experiences and elevate the region.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are communication, trustworthiness, loyalty, and transparency. I believe strong relationships are built when people feel comfortable being honest and open with one another. If something needs to be addressed or improved, I value having conversations early so we can find solutions and continue moving forward together.
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