Voice First World

Shannon Rich has spent her career leading organizations through transformational projects by challenging traditional methods. As president and CEO of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, she directed the single largest endeavor in the organization’s 95-year history-the opening of the Gaylord–Pickens Museum, unveiling a complete renovation of one of Oklahoma’s oldest treasures, the former Mid-Continent Life Insurance Building. 

Since Rich joined the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, there has been a significant increase to its statewide exposure, educational programming and guest experience. The museum has provided free field trips to over 45,000 students; developed one of the most active teen boards in the state; increased statewide donor support; established an emerging leaders board to raise awareness of the mission; created free family programming year-round; and completed a $19 million capital campaign. Ongoing initiatives include providing statewide scholarship opportunities to all 77 counties and its award-winning publishing program.

Under Rich’s direction, the museum was recognized as the Best New Attraction by the Oklahoma State Department of Tourism and Recreation, Nickelodeon’s Best Parents Pick for Teens, Best Day Camp and Best Museum, and Best New Attraction by Frontier Country Marketing Association. The museum also has received the Neil Horton Award for Excellence for its role in revitalizing downtown Oklahoma City. 

Rich continues to leave a lasting impact on her community. She has been recognized as one of Oklahoma’s “Most Admired CEOs,” is a three-time honoree and inductee of the Circle of Excellence for the Journal Record’s “50 Making a Difference” and a member of “Achievers Under 40.” She served as a delegate for the White House Conference on Women and also as a host committee member for Governor Frank Keating’s Conference for Women.  

A sought-after speaker on topics from business development, non-profit management and the importance of equity in the workplace, Rich is also the Founder of the LeadHERboard an online tool used to elevate, engage and professional women.