CINCINNATI, Ohio—Three leaders in the sports events and tourism industry will be inducted into the Sports ETA Hall of Fame in April, the organization recently announced.
The 2026 honorees are Tara Green, Ray Palmer, and Tammy Dunn, and they will be formally inducted on April 22 during the Sports ETA Symposium in Las Vegas. The Hall of Fame, powered by the Albuquerque Sports Commission, recognizes individuals whose careers have made a lasting impact on the industry through leadership, innovation, and service.
“Each year we recognize pioneers who have helped shape and grow the sports events and tourism industry,” says John David, president and CEO of Sports ETA. “Tara Green, Ray Palmer, and Tammy Dunn represent decades of leadership, innovation, and commitment to building destinations and communities through sports.”
Green, principal of Public Realm Strategies, has more than 25 years of experience in sports, event management, and civic placemaking. Her work has included leadership roles with major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, NBA All-Star Game, FIFA World Cup, and NCAA championships, as well as executive positions with organizations including the American Airlines Center and Visit Dallas.
Palmer, president and CEO of Pensacola Sports, has led the organization since 2002, expanding its portfolio to include a wide range of amateur and collegiate events. Under his leadership, the Florida Gulf Coast region has hosted conference championships and community-based sports initiatives while growing its presence in sports tourism.
Dunn, executive director of the Snohomish County Sports Commission, has helped position the region north of Seattle as a destination for amateur and professional competitions. Since beginning her career in sports tourism in 2005, she has overseen partnerships across multiple communities and helped the region host events such as Skate America and the Fed Cup.
According to Sports ETA, the Hall of Fame is one of the industry’s highest honors, recognizing individuals whose leadership has helped shape and advance sports events and tourism.
