President

Kim Zakar

Finance/Treasurer

board-appointed

Susan Ridder

Marketing/Communications

board-appointed

Jeanette Sison

Kim Zakar is a Business Development Manager with over 30 years of experience selling to the federal government. A member of the LPGA Amateurs (formerly EWGA) since 2005, she began with the Northeast Bay Chapter and has been part of the Palm Springs Desert Cities Chapter for the past 10 years. Kim has served on the Membership Committee and held leadership roles as the 2018 LPGA Cup Finals Captain and 2024 Cal Cup Co-Captain.

Her passion for golf is about having fun, meeting new people, and sharing the game with others. As Chapter President, Kim looks forward to fostering camaraderie and ensuring every member enjoys the season — whether in competition or casual play.

Susan is a retired middle school teacher who learned to golf to share the fun of the game and enjoy beautiful courses with her husband. She joined the LPGA Amateurs 10 years ago and has enjoyed participating in a wide variety of casual and competitive formats.

Susan has represented the chapter as a member of both the Cactus Cup and Cal Cup tournament teams. She previously served as Co-Events Coordinator and is honored to step into the role of Treasurer for 2026.

Her goal is to work closely with the Palm Springs/Desert Cities Board and Chapter members to facilitate smooth financial transactions and provide responsible stewardship of the chapter’s resources.

Jenn stepped into the Marketing & Communications Chair mid-season to support the chapter’s continued growth and visibility across the Coachella Valley. While new to the role, she has embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to elevating the chapter’s presence throughout the Desert Cities.

Working in partnership with fellow Board members, Jenn focuses on increasing awareness, strengthening engagement, and showcasing the vibrant community, events, and experiences offered by the LPGA Amateurs Palm Springs / Desert Cities Chapter. Her efforts are centered on amplifying the chapter’s reach and supporting broader growth initiatives through clear, consistent, and welcoming communications.

Events & Activities

Jeanette Sison

Membership

Laurie Briggs

Education & Instruction

Elise Thomas

With over 25 years of experience planning events for companies like Taco Bell, Hoag Hospital, and Brinker International, Jeanette brings a thoughtful and creative approach to every event. She’s passionate about creating experiences that are organized, inclusive, and genuinely fun. As Events Director, she’s excited to bring together her two passions — event planning and golf — to serve the LPGA Amateurs Palm Springs/Desert Cities Chapter.

Laurie works full-time as a local Realtor. Originally from Canada, she golfs far less now than she did 20 years ago when winters meant months surrounded by snow—time for a change! These days, she enjoys golfing occasionally with local and visiting friends, family, and clients. It was through one of these outings that she was introduced to the local LPGA Amateurs chapter, where friendships quickly blossomed. Always eager to lend a hand, Laurie took on the role of Co-Membership Committee Chair in 2024 and looks forward to welcoming new members into the fold.

Elise has been a member of the LPGA Amateurs Palm Springs/Desert Cities (PSDC) Chapter for almost 20 years.  She has held several Board positions including Secretary, Treasurer, Membership, Handicap and Education Chairs.  She enjoys competitive, casual and especially team golf.  She was a member of three PSDC scramble teams which qualified for Nationals in Tennessee, Arkansas and Florida.   Although retired, Elise continues to work as an Adjunct Counselor at College of the Desert.