2026 NBC Foundation Board Announced

NBC Baseball Foundation Announces 2026 Board of Directors

The NBC Baseball Foundation has unveiled its 2026 Board of Directors, bringing together an impressive lineup of civic, business, and community leaders who will guide the Foundation’s mission to connect communities through baseball, empower young athletes, and preserve the game’s rich history in Wichita and beyond.

Leadership Team

The 2026 board will continue under the leadership of officers who bring connections across Wichita’s business and tourism sectors:

Jessica Viramontez of Visit Wichita continues as Board Chair.

Zach Theademan of Derby Overhead Door continues as Vice-Chair.

Micha Mohr of Stryv Bank continues as Secretary.

Colton Smarsh of ICT Tax joins the officer team as Treasurer. With his background in accounting and financial services at ICT CPA, Smarsh brings expertise in financial management and tax matters, as well a continuation of the passion for the mission of the NBC passed on from his predecessor Jim Dunning.

New Board Members

This year’s board welcomes several new members whose experiences and community roots will strengthen the Foundation’s work:

Charissima Albright joins from WaterWalk Extended Stay, though she’s also known for her role as Director of Sales & Development at Wichita Festivals, where she helps produce Riverfest. Her experience in managing large-scale events and in authentic community engagement will support the NBC World Series and Foundation initiatives.

Sherii Farmer returns to the NBC board after previously serving as chairwoman in 2023, bringing her community connections and leadership experience from Textron Aviation. Her previous board leadership and understanding of the Foundation’s mission position her to provide continuity and strategic guidance.

Alex Hamel comes to the board from The Boeing Companies. Hamel previously served as board chair for W (Wichita Young Professionals) and brings organizational experience from his work in human resources and the aviation industry, as well as a love for sports in Wichita.

Loren Hibbs adds substantial baseball knowledge and coaching experience to the board. Hibbs played for Wichita State University from 1982-84, where he was a three-time All-Missouri Valley Conference selection and still holds the NCAA record for most runs scored in a single season with 125. He served as an assistant coach at WSU from 1985-92, helping the Shockers win the 1989 College World Series, then spent 27 seasons as head coach at UNC Charlotte with an 819-682-5 record. He returned to Wichita State as interim head coach in 2023, earning American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year honors. Hibbs also played in the NBC World Series and was inducted into the Kansas Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018. His experience at every level of summer and college baseball will support youth development programs and preserve the game’s traditions.

Continuing Directors

These new members join returning board members who bring expertise across key sectors:

• Dallas Brewton – Community Member
• Britt Clubb – Professional Engineering Consultants
• Shane Cornelius – Black Hills Energy
• Mike Hoheisel – City of Wichita
• Joe Johnson – Retired, Schafer Johnson
• Stacy McGranor – Blueprints & Playbooks
• Rich Olmstead – Kutak Rock Law
• Ben Sauceda – Kansas Aviation Museum
• KC Smurthwaite – Athletics Admin

Together, this team represents tourism, sports, aviation, finance, law, education, energy, and civic leadership.

Supporting the Foundation’s Mission

The 2026 board will provide strategic guidance and governance as the Foundation expands programs that celebrate baseball history, grow opportunities for young athletes, and support the NBC World Series. These initiatives include youth baseball clinics, community partnerships, historical preservation projects, and the 92nd National Baseball Congress World Series, held July 23-August 1 in Wichita.

Looking Ahead

Through the leadership of this board, the NBC Baseball Foundation continues bringing people together around baseball. The 2026 board will help create opportunities for the college and amateur players who compete each summer and for the communities that support them.

To get involved with the NBC as a committee member or volunteer, please email info@nbcbaseball.com.