Many people within SFMA are already familiar with Paula Sliefert’ s industry experience, volunteerism and her commitment to the sports field management profession.

Outside of work, Sliefert enjoys the outdoors— hiking, walking and golfing. She is an avid sports fan, an avid reader, and a member of Toastmasters— an international organization that helps develop presentation and leadership skills.

“ I think that I will always be on a journey of trying to become a better version of me,” said Sliefert.“ You have to invest in yourself and I am trying to lead by example.”

“ I think I will always be on a journey of trying to become a better version of me.”

Most importantly, family is central to Sliefert’ s life.

“ My mom inspires me,” said Sliefert.“ She ' s 83, and has raised five kids and seven grandkids. A lot of what I am today is because of her. My mom and dad divorced when I was 11; and I grew up living with my Dad, which created a close relationship between us. He passed in 2005, but there isn’ t a day that goes by that I don’ t think about him. I have three sisters and a brother, and we are a very close knit family group.”

Sliefert also cherishes her seven nieces and nephews, and does her best to help them experience the world— most notably on international trips.

“ It’ s super fun for me, because I get to see things again for the first time through their eyes,” she said.“ When I go with them, it is to reconnect with them and be the best aunt I can be since I have no children of my own. Family is paramount to me.”

Added Sliefert,“ I believe in balance, humor, and the joy of learning something new— whether that is through travel, reading or simply connecting with people from all walks of life.

Sliefert with two of her sisters

Sliefert with niece Payton Campbell at Machu Pichu

Sliefert with nephew Chase Green sportsfieldmanagementonline. com July 2025 | SportsField Management

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