USBTA - U.S. Blind Tennis Appoints New Executive Board to Champion Growth, Inclusion and Innovation

U.S. Blind Tennis Appoints New Executive Board to Champion Growth, Inclusion and Innovation

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Pittsburgh, PA — The U.S. Blind Tennis Association (USBTA), a national leader in adaptive sports and a driving force behind blind and low vision tennis in the United States, proudly announces its new Executive Board leadership and at-large appointments. The newly expanded board brings together seasoned professionals in disability advocacy, healthcare, education, and sport — each dedicated to expanding access, visibility, and opportunity for blind and low vision athletes across the country.

New Executive Leadership

Murray Elbourn has been elected President. A visionary leader in inclusive sport, Elbourn brings global experience to the role, including serving as CEO of Disability Sports Australia and currently leading Amerability, a U.S.-based firm delivering blind services and mentoring. “It’s my hope to continue the work I began in Australia to push Blind Low Vision Tennis forward in partnership with the U.S. Tennis Association and their regions,” said Elbourn.

Alen Amini, the new Vice President, is a management consultant with Boston Consulting Group and a former educator. “As a lifelong tennis enthusiast, I joined USBTA because I believe everyone deserves access to the joy and connection sports provide,” said Amini.

Corey Grandstaff, elected Treasurer, serves as Associate Director at the Washington State School for the Blind and has extensive experience in nonprofit leadership. “I want to ensure blind students have access to blind tennis as they explore sports, and to help the organization grow sustainably,” said Grandstaff.

New Strategic Appointments

Dr. Jennifer Roth, a founding member of USBTA, has been named Director of Curriculum and Education. A professor and cognitive neuroscientist, Roth leads research on sound tracking in blind and low vision sports and brings scientific rigor to the Association’s training and education efforts. “I am drawn to this work because of my love of philanthropy, involvement in tennis, and expertise in cognitive neuroscience,” Roth shared.

Dr. Premilla Banwait, appointed Director of Corporate Relations, is a clinical leader and public health strategist. As VP of Clinical Programs at UnitedHealthcare Vision and an optometrist with deep philanthropic ties, she aims to leverage her network to grow sponsorship and national awareness. “This role beautifully aligns with both my professional mission and personal passions,” Banwait shared.

Faith Grisham, a new At-Large Board Member, is a former state tennis champion and special education advocate. With a focus on curriculum development and national outreach, she aims to bridge the gap between USTA leadership and BLV athletes. “I’m committed to helping bring blind tennis to the next level,” she said.

Looking Ahead

With this dynamic team, USBTA is poised to enter a new era of growth and impact — expanding programs, deepening partnerships with USTA and national advocacy organizations, and ensuring that blind and low vision athletes nationwide have meaningful opportunities to compete, connect, and thrive.

To learn more about USBTA and its mission, visit USBlindTennis.org.


Media Contact:
Teisha Gillespie
Director of Marketing, USBTA
T.Gillespie@usblindtennis.org