(CHARLESTON, S.C.) – The National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) announced today legendary golf ambassador, LPGA/PGA Professional and diversity trailblazer Renee Powell as the recipient of its 2026 Award of Merit, the association's most prestigious honor, which recognizes individuals who have made significant, long-term contributions to the game of golf.

Powell's career is defined by a trailblazing spirit and a lifetime of resiliency. In 1967, she became only the second African-American woman to compete on the LPGA Tour, ultimately participating in over 250 events worldwide. She is a member of 15 different Hall of Fame classes, including her induction into the PGA of America Hall of Fame in 2017. Powell has received numerous accolades, such as the PGA of America First Lady of Golf Award, the USGA Ike Grainger Award and the inaugural Charlie Sifford Award for her efforts in advancing diversity in the sport.

Additionally, her global legacy includes unprecedented honors in the home of golf. Powell received an honorary doctorate from the University of St Andrews, is an honorary member of the R&A and holds the distinction of being the only American to have a building named in her honor in the 612-year history of the University of St Andrews.

"Renee Powell is the personification of progress in the golf industry, having spent more than five decades breaking barriers that once seemed insurmountable," says NGCOA CEO Jay Karen. "While the world knows her as a legendary ambassador, our members recognized her as a dedicated peer–a head golf professional and operator who carries forward the historic legacy of Clearview Golf Club. Her life's work has proven that golf is a powerful vehicle for community engagement, and her efforts to diversify the game directly fuel the growth and health of the entire industry. The NGCOA is proud to honor a trailblazer who has not only played the game at the highest level but has spent her career ensuring the business of golf is open for everyone."

Currently, Powell is the LPGA/PGA head golf professional at the historic Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio. Clearview celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2026 and holds the distinction of being the only course designed, built, owned and operated by an African-American. It was designated a National Historic Site by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 2001.

Throughout her career, Powell has remained deeply committed to diversifying the sport and making it welcoming to all. Her commitment is further emphasized by the establishment of Clearview HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), the only no-cost, year-round therapeutic golf program in the nation specifically for women veterans.

"It is a profound honor to be recognized by the NGCOA, an organization that understands the dedication required to own and operate a golf course," says Powell. "My passion has always been to extend the mission of my father, William Powell, who built Clearview during a time of great adversity to ensure there was 'golf for everyone.' Whether we are supporting our women veterans through Clearview HOPE or mentoring the next generation of diverse players, we are strengthening the future of this sport."

Powell will formally accept the NGCOA Award of Merit on Wednesday, January 21, during the NGCOA Golf Business Conference in Orlando, Florida. She joins an elite group of past NGCOA Award of Merit recipients, including Tom Watson (2025), Lee Trevino (2024), Annika Sorenstam (2022), Jack Nicklaus (2014), Gary Player (2003), Arnold Palmer (2002) and Nancy Lopez (1989).

Attendance at the NGCOA Golf Business Conference is limited to golf course owners, operators and staff. Those interested in registering for the conference and exploring NGCOA membership can contact Rachel Carter at rcarter@ngcoa.org.

Renee Powell to Receive 2026 NGCOA Award of Merit

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