The Big Sky Conference hired Violet Palmer as its Coordinator of Women's Basketball Officials in August of 2021.

Palmer brings a wealth of experience to the Big Sky as both an official and an administrator. A former Big Sky official, Palmer has served for many years as the Coordinator of Women's Basketball Officials for other NCAA Division I conferences in the western United States.

"We're thrilled to welcome Violet back to the Big Sky family for this important role that can directly impact and improve the student-athlete and coaching experience," Wistrcill said. "Her extensive and impressive on-court and administrative pedigree will play a leading role in continuing to elevate the quality of women’s basketball officiating in our conference."

Palmer's impressive resume includes officiating five NCAA Women's Final Fours, two Women's national championship games, and the inaugural season of the WNBA. She made history in 1997 as the first female to officiate an NBA game. Palmer was on the whistle for more than 900 NBA regular-season games as well as nine NBA Playoff games and the 2014 NBA All-Star Game in New Orleans. 

After a nearly 20-year career, Palmer retired from active officiating in 2016. In addition to her new role with the Big Sky, Palmer also serves as the Coordinator of Women's Basketball Officials for the Pac-12, WAC, and WCC.