Can you tell us about your experience participating in the Women in Golf Foundation’s national collegiate women’s championship tournament?
Participating in two National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championships stands out as a cherished memory from my college golf career. The tournament provided a unique opportunity to compete alongside exceptionally talented women of color, creating a truly inspiring atmosphere. One particularly unforgettable moment occurred on the tee box of my first hole, where I had the privilege of teeing off in the presence of Renee Powell, the second African American woman ever to join the LPGA Tour. The honor of having Renee Powell witness our tee-offs was both exciting and nerve-wracking. I vividly recall feeling the pressure as I prepared to swing, and it still amuses me that she sensed my nervousness. Just before my shot, Renee kindly asked me to step back for a moment. Together, we took a deep breath, and with her guidance, I regained my composure. Her words of encouragement and the shared breath allowed me to swing confidently, making that experience a powerful symbol of mentorship and sisterhood in my college golf journey.
The Women in Golf Foundation hosts a career fair alongside its women’s collegiate tournament. Could you tell us about your experience at the career fair and how it helped you secure your position in the golf industry? Were there any specific connections or opportunities you gained from this event?
Reflecting on my experience at the 2018 National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship, I now recognize the profound impact it had on my journey into adulthood and my new career in the golf industry. In my sophomore year, during the championship, there was a career fair and professional development segment featuring a panel of accomplished women in the golf industry.
During the event, all of the college golfers in the room were able to participate in a speed interview round, presenting our resumes to each panelist. Throughout the panel discussion, they shared invaluable insights into transitioning from collegiate golf to professional careers, emphasizing crucial aspects such as online representation through social media and the significance of networking. This newfound awareness prompted immediate action on my part. That very day, I created a LinkedIn account and curated my Instagram to better align with the professional image I wanted to portray.
Many young women aspiring to enter the golf industry look up to alumni like you for inspiration. What advice would you give to them as they pursue their dreams and navigate the challenges of breaking into this industry?
As someone who has spent the last three years navigating the challenges of entering the golf industry, I understand the importance of guidance and encouragement for aspiring young women. Networking is key in any profession, and the golf industry is no exception. Connect with professionals, attend events, and don’t be afraid to seek mentorship. Building a supportive network can provide valuable insights and open doors to opportunities you may not have considered.
Stay committed to continuous learning. The golf industry is evolving, and staying informed about industry trends, technologies, and developments will set you apart. There are many diverse careers in golf beyond coaching, including digital marketing and advertising, sports broadcasting, photography, physical therapy, tournament operations, community engagement, accounting, and more. Make sure to take advantage of educational resources, workshops, and certifications to enhance your skills both while you’re in college and after graduation.
Be proactive in creating opportunities for yourself. If there’s a particular aspect of the industry you’re passionate about, explore it, and don’t be afraid to initiate projects or collaborations. This proactive approach not only showcases your initiative but also contributes to your personal and professional growth. In essence, my advice is to be confident, build a strong network, stay informed, take initiative, and embrace resilience. The golf industry is diverse and evolving, and there’s ample room for passionate and driven women to make a meaningful impact.
How has being a part of the Women in Golf Foundation’s network of women in golf benefited your professional journey? Are there any mentors or role models you’ve met through the organization who have made a significant impact on your career?
Absolutely! For starters, I met the founder of this organization, LaJean Gould, when I was 19 years old, playing in my first National Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship in 2018. It’s now 2023, and she recently gave me the opportunity to join her staff. However, little did I know that two of the panelists from the career fair at that same tournament in 2018, who were also board members of the Women in Golf Foundation at that time, would have a significant impact on my future career. One of the panelists, Rachel Mabee, later became the program manager overseeing my PGA WORKS Fellowship with the PGA of America in 2022.
Another panelist, who is a Player Development Representative for Acushnet’s Titleist company, Jasmin Cunningham, became a trusted friend, offering invaluable advice during my job search in the golf industry after the fellowship concluded. The Women in Golf Foundation and the insightful women on that panel played an instrumental role in my transformation, marking the starting point for building my network. I owe much of my personal and professional growth to the impactful advice and guidance they provided, shaping me into the woman I am today.
Reflecting on your own journey, what is one piece of advice you wish you could have shared with your younger self when you were just starting out in the golf industry?
Looking back on my journey since graduating from Texas Southern University and entering the golf industry, if I could offer one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace uncertainty, be open to change, and believe in my own capabilities and the unique perspective I bring to the sport. After graduation, I often felt the need to have everything figured out and to follow a predetermined path. However, the reality is that life doesn’t work that way, and that’s what makes it beautiful.
I would tell my younger self not to fear stepping out of my comfort zone and to view challenges as opportunities for growth. It’s okay not to have all the answers, and sometimes the most valuable lessons come from navigating the unknown. Embracing change allows for greater flexibility, adaptability, and the chance to discover new passions and strengths. Ultimately, I’d remind myself that the journey is a learning process, and success is not always a straight line. Embracing the unknown, staying adaptable, and fostering meaningful connections are key elements that have made these early years of my career in the golf industry even more exciting and fulfilling.
The Women in Golf Foundation is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the golf world. How do you see the role of women evolving in the golf industry in the coming years, and what steps can organizations like this take to further support and empower women in golf?
As we move forward, the role of women in the golf industry is destined for significant evolution, thanks in part to organizations like the Women in Golf Foundation that champion diversity and inclusion. In the coming years, I foresee a more prominent and diversified presence of women across all facets of the golf world, from playing and coaching to leadership roles within organizations.
To facilitate this positive evolution, organizations like the Women in Golf Foundation can take several steps. First and foremost, continued advocacy for equal opportunities and representation is crucial. This involves actively promoting and celebrating the achievements of women in golf, whether on the course or in professional roles. Creating mentorship programs and networking opportunities can also foster a supportive community, providing women with the guidance and connections needed to advance in their careers.
Additionally, investing in educational initiatives that encourage women and people of color to pursue careers in the golf industry is pivotal. This can help break down stereotypes and ensure a pipeline of talented and passionate individuals entering the golf world. Furthermore, organizations can work toward establishing inclusive policies and practices, ensuring that workplaces within the golf industry are welcoming to individuals of all backgrounds. This includes addressing any existing gender disparities in pay and opportunities and actively promoting an environment that values diversity. Encouraging diversity in decision-making processes, ensuring fair and inclusive recruitment practices, and creating a welcoming environment for women to thrive professionally are key aspects that require continuous attention and commitment.
Lastly, leveraging the power of media and technology to showcase the diverse stories of women in golf can inspire the next generation. Highlighting role models, sharing success stories, and broadcasting the achievements of women in the industry can help shatter stereotypes and create a more inclusive narrative. By championing these initiatives and emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion, organizations like the Women in Golf Foundation can significantly contribute to shaping a more equitable, diverse, and empowered future for women and people from underrepresented backgrounds in the world of golf.