NAIA Promotes Sallee and Dee to Executive Roles
The Kansas City-based organization has named Chesney Sallee as Chief Operating Officer and Kevin Dee as Chief Financial Officer.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in People
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has elevated internal leaders Chesney Sallee and Kevin Dee to top executive positions. These promotions recognize the long-term contributions of both individuals as the organization works to execute its strategic priorities.
Why it matters
By filling these roles with long-standing staff members, the organization aims to solidify its operational foundation. These appointments are intended to support future growth for the association and its network of member institutions.
The NAIA supports approximately 89,000 student-athletes who collectively earn $1.3 billion in annual financial aid. The organization oversees 31 national championships across its membership.
The players
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
Headquartered in Kansas City, this organization governs small-college athletics and manages national championships.
Chesney Sallee
She serves as the new Chief Operating Officer and previously held the title of Vice President of Membership Value and Governance.
Kevin Dee
He is the new Chief Financial Officer and has contributed to the organization for over three decades.
The details
Chesney Sallee, who joined the association in 2011, previously served as the Vice President of Membership Value and Governance. Kevin Dee, a 33-year veteran of the organization, moves into his new role after serving as the Senior Vice President of Finance and Sport Administration.
Timeline
Chesney Sallee began her career with the NAIA in 2011.
Chesney Sallee was named Administrator of the Year in 2017.
The NAIA announced the leadership promotions on October 29, 2026.
Market Landscape
These executive promotions follow the leadership restructuring requirements set by the NAIA's 2026 strategic growth framework. This shift centralizes institutional knowledge to maintain competitive standing against other collegiate athletic governing bodies.
These appointments ensure that student-athletes and member institutions continue to receive consistent administrative support for their programs. The changes are internal and do not impact the cost of participation or current membership requirements.
The takeaway
Leadership stability is a critical factor for non-profit sports associations managing large annual scholarship funds. These internal promotions suggest the organization is prioritizing long-term continuity over outside recruitment.
Further reading
For more information on organizational leadership, visit the Kansas City People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NAIA.
