New Chapter for U.S. Diving Foundation

The U.S. Diving Foundation is beginning a new chapter.

The U.S. Diving Foundation was formed by USA Diving with funds from the 1984 Olympics. The purpose of the Foundation is to support USA Diving, including the development of junior and elite athletes for national and international competition. Working hand-in-hand with USA Diving, the Foundation mobilizes philanthropic resources that support high performance, junior development, coaching, facilities and community growth, while also building an endowment that secures the future of the sport.

“Our goal is to build a world-class foundation that meaningfully elevates financial support for USA Diving and empowers our athletes and coaches at every level to compete and win, from the local to the global stage as we look toward LA28 and beyond,” said Board Chair Casey Lynch.

Since assuming his role as chair, Lynch has helped guide the U.S. Diving Foundation through a period of growth and strategic alignment, strengthening its commitment to supporting athletes at every stage of competition. The board recently took a major step by hiring Michelle Bair, PhD, as the Foundation’s inaugural Executive Director.

Dr. Bair brings extensive experience leading complex, enterprise-wide fundraising initiatives. Throughout her career, she has built and led high-performing teams, developed multi-year fundraising strategies, and cultivated donors whose investments have accelerated institutional priorities. A graduate of the University of Florida (BM) and Texas Tech University (MM, PhD), Dr. Bair focuses on building deep, meaningful relationships with donors, community members and board leaders to advance mission-driven organizations.

“I'm truly honored to join the U.S. Diving Foundation at this pivotal moment as we work in partnership with USA Diving to advance the sport at every level,” said Bair. “The discipline, sacrifice, and self-possession required to succeed in these environments are invaluable skills that extend far beyond competition.”

With the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane on the horizon, Bair noted that USA Diving and the U.S. Diving Foundation are well-positioned to elevate the sport to new heights.

USA Diving leadership also expressed enthusiasm for the future.

“We are excited for this new chapter of the U.S. Diving Foundation,” said Lee Michaud, President of USA Diving. “Under Casey’s leadership as Chair, and with the addition of Dr. Bair, we are strengthening our commitment to supporting athletes and advancing the future of diving in the United States.”

About the U.S. Diving Foundation

The U.S. Diving Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting USA Diving, including the development of junior and elite athletes for national and international competition. The Foundation raises and manages funds and provides grants and resources to support USA Diving's operations and key initiatives. For additional information, visit www.usadivingfoundation.org.

About USA Diving

About USA Diving: Featuring America's best divers, USA Diving is the national governing body for the sport of diving. USA Diving offers diversified programs geared toward the broadest number of diving enthusiasts, from the novice to the world champion. USA Diving conducts approximately 25 regional and national events annually and is responsible for training and selecting teams that represent the United States at international events such as the Olympic Games, World Championships and World Cup.