The LPGA, founded in 1950, didn’t hire its first commissioner until 1975. Babe Zaharias’ business manager, Fred Corcoran, was the tournament manager of the newly-formed tour 75 years ago, and Patty Berg was the first president. But it wasn’t until Ray Volpe, in the mid-70s, insisted on having the title of “commissioner” and answering to a board of directors that the current system was put into place.
Mollie Marcoux Samaan was named the ninth commissioner in May 2021. The former Princeton athletic director announced she was stepping down on Dec. 2, 2024.
Here’s a look at the history of all nine LPGA commissioners: