NAMM Announces New Leadership for Executive Committee

The NAMM board of directors has elected a new executive committee to continue the organization’s legacy of service to NAMM members and the industry at large.

In a vote at the recent board meeting, Tom Sumner, president of Yamaha Corp. of America (and previously NAMM’s vice chair), was named chair of the NAMM board of directors. The board also elected Chris White, president of White House of Music, as vice chair, where he will serve in an ex officio role as chair of The NAMM Foundation board; Barbara Wight, chief financial officer of Taylor Guitars, as treasurer; and Whitney Brown Grisaffi, president of Ted Brown Music, as secretary of the executive committee.

“It’s been an honor to serve on NAMM’s executive committee for the last six years, and I’m thrilled to continue that work as chair during this pivotal moment in the industry,” said Sumner upon his election. “NAMM is dedicated to creating a more musical world. Going forward, it’s our goal to engage the industry and work together in achieving that vision.”

Sumner also welcomed Grisaffi to the executive committee. “Whitney’s deep industry knowledge, experience and servant leadership style will be the perfect complement to the NAMM executive committee. We’re so honored to welcome her and look forward to her contributions.”

“As a longtime NAMM member, I’m excited by the opportunity to serve the industry in this new role,” Grisaffi said. “I look forward to working with the board of directors in driving NAMM’s vision, mission and objectives — and contributing on behalf of all NAMM members globally.”

During the board meeting, the outgoing NAMM board chair and president of Menchey Music Services, Joel Menchey, was thanked for his eight years of leadership and service to the organization.

With the election, the NAMM executive committee retains its balanced composition of retail and commercial members in leadership roles to help the organization fulfill its mission. The appointments to the NAMM board of directors executive committee are effective now.

For additional information about the NAMM board of directors, please visit: https://www.namm.org/about/board-members.