Key Takeaways
- USA Volleyball (USAVB) confirmed the simultaneous exit of its CFO, Stacie Kearns, and legal counsel, Rachael Stafford, following forced resignations.
- At least five senior executives have been dismissed or have resigned since CEO John Speraw assumed leadership in September 2024.
- Both Kearns and Stafford received multi‑year compensation packages—$231,428 and $190,450 respectively—for the 2024 fiscal year.
- Internal communications reveal a hurried transition plan, with interim assignments to controller Fel Shi, staff attorney Josh Valdez, and Safe Sport specialist Taylor Dendas.
- An April 2025 audit disclosed a probable $3 million loss from an ongoing third‑party claim, while severance payments of $58,780 were made to a former department head.
- Speraw’s compensation rose sharply after his first nine months as CEO, now approaching $700,000 annually, while board dynamics have shifted markedly.
- Commentary from USAVB chair Cassidy Lichtman underscores rapid organizational change and confidence in Speraw’s vision despite lingering staff concerns.
Overview of Recent Leadership Turmoil
USA Volleyball’s national governing body confirmed this week that longtime chief financial officer Stacie Kearns and chief legal counsel Rachael Stafford were compelled to leave the organization. Both executives were presented with the choice of resigning or being terminated, and accepted immediate resignations after a brief internal discussion. Their departures follow a cascade of senior‑staff exits that have unsettled employees and prompted questions about the direction of USAVB under its new chief executive.
Nature of the Exits and Executive Compensation
Kearns had served as CFO since 2006 and earned an annual salary of $231,428 in the 2024 fiscal year, the most recent data available from IRS filings. Stafford, who recently relocated to Orange County where USAVB maintains an office, commanded $190,450 in 2024 compensation. Both positions were among the highest‑paid roles within the organization, reflecting the extensive financial and legal responsibilities they held.
Recent Wave of Resignations and Fires
The removal of Kearns and Stafford is the latest in a series of departures that includes chief operating officer Steve Bishop, who was hired by Speraw in December 2024 only to be terminated by January 2025. At least five executives have left USAVB in recent months, signaling a rapid turnover within the leadership team and raising concerns about organizational stability.
Internal Transition Strategy
In a confidential email to staff, CEO John Speraw announced that the vacated positions would be posted immediately and that interim arrangements had been established to prevent disruption. He directed employees to route matters to Fel Shi (controller), Josh Valdez (staff attorney), and Taylor Dendas (Safe Sport specialist) while recruitment for permanent replacements proceeds. The email underscored a commitment to continuity despite the sudden losses.
Focus on Legal and Financial Pressures
An April 2025 audit commissioned by USAVB revealed that the organization was “defending against a claim asserted by a third party” and estimated a probable loss of $3 million as the best financial estimate for resolving the dispute. This figure was recorded as a liability on the organization’s books. Additionally, USAVB disclosed a $58,780 severance payment to a former department head, further illustrating the financial impact of recent staffing changes.
Public Statements and Public Relations Approach
Speraw’s brief announcement made clear that USAVB “wishes” Kearns and Stafford “well in their next steps” and emphasized that the organization would continue to operate without interruption. The email called for staff to direct inquiries to Speraw directly, while USAVB chair Cassidy Lichtman declined to comment on the specifics of settlements or dismissals, citing confidentiality.
CEO Tenure and Compensation Trajectory
John Speraw, who transitioned from a U.S. men’s Olympic team and UCLA coaching role to USAVB CEO and president in September 2024, received $390,952 in 2024 compensation. Internal estimates suggest his current salary is approaching $701,821, surpassing the $701,821 paid to his predecessor, Jamie Davis, whose contract was not renewed. This compensation shift reflects the board’s confidence in a new leadership paradigm aimed at modernizing the organization.
Board Dynamics and Organizational Vision
The board’s decision to replace Davis with Speraw was part of a broader strategic pivot described by Lichtman as “a world that is changing really rapidly.” She emphasized that the board expects Speraw to “evolve (the organization) to meet the challenges we in the world now,” suggesting an ambition to adapt USAVB’s structure and governance to contemporary sport management demands.
Official Response to Settlement Queries
When pressed for details on multiple settlements paid by USAVB and the rationale behind employee dismissals, Lichtman responded that she could not “speak to any specific employee or former employee.” This limited transparency has contributed to growing speculation among staff and industry observers about underlying issues within the organization’s employment practices.
Implications for Staff and Stakeholders
The abrupt exits of Kearns and Stafford, coupled with the broader pattern of executive turnover, have left USAVB employees searching for clarity. Interim leadership appointments aim to bridge operational gaps, yet the absence of definitive explanations has cultivated uncertainty. Stakeholders, including athletes, regional federations, and sponsors, may need to monitor forthcoming communications for reassurance regarding governance continuity.
Projected Path Forward
Looking ahead, USAVB plans to conduct national searches for replacements for the CFO and legal counsel roles, while maintaining a focus on seamless day‑to‑day operations through interim personnel. The organization’s ability to navigate the current leadership vacuum will likely hinge on how quickly it can fill these critical positions and whether it can restore confidence among staff, athletes, and external partners. The forthcoming months will be pivotal in determining whether this period of upheaval translates into a transformative renewal or further instability.