SHI International announced Monday that it has signed a multiyear agreement to be the official technology partner of the LPGA Tour.
The natural partnership stems from both organizations’ commitment to amplifying women’s leadership, empowerment, diversity, equity and inclusion — the LPGA through sport and SHI through technology.
SHI, based in Somerset, is one of the largest information technology solutions providers in the world. It also is the name sponsor on the Rutgers University football stadium.
Thai Lee, co-founder and CEO of SHI, said the partnership works on many levels.
“Partnering with the LPGA allows SHI an opportunity to have different conversations with business and IT leaders in a new and fun environment, growing our relationships through a love of golf and an admiration of the world-class abilities the LPGA players possess,” she said.
“We are excited to introduce our customers, business partners and employees to the sense of community, empowerment and growth felt at LPGA Tour events that make this partnership a natural fit.”
About SHI
SHI International Corp., based in Somerset, is a $13 billion transformational technology solutions provider serving the needs of more than 15,000 corporate, enterprise, public sector and academic customer organizations around the world. It helps companies achieve business goals through the use of technologies ranging from software licensing and end user computing devices to innovative cloud and edge solutions. With over 6,000 employees worldwide, SHI is the largest Minority- and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise in the U.S.
Through this partnership, the LPGA will leverage SHI’s expertise with transformational technology procurement and infrastructure to help meet the fast-paced and ever-changing technology needs of the association. Meanwhile, SHI and its customers will benefit from corporate branding and on-site hospitality opportunities at select tour events, utilizing the LPGA as a tech storytelling platform to emphasize their commitment to supporting women’s sports in a significant way.
Kelly Hyne, chief sales officer of the LPGA, said the tour is eager to begin working with SHI.
“Thai Lee and her team at SHI have thrived in the IT industry by recognizing the advantages of supporting diversity throughout a company’s workforce and partnership network,” she said. “We are thrilled to welcome a new partner whose mission aligns so closely with our values. Together, we will continue to elevate our world-class athletes and our sport around the world and strive toward peak performance in all aspects of the organization.”
Both sides said they hope the partnership will have a greater benefit for society, too.
The gender gap in technology is steadily shrinking, and female representation in large global technology firms is predicted to reach 33% this year. SHI, the largest Minority- and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, or MWBE, in the U.S., features a workforce proudly above that industry average. This is one of many synergies between the two organizations.
