Keynote Speaker

The year was 1967 when Renee Powell became the second African American woman to play on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour. Her first appearance was at the U.S. Women’s Open. She would go on to compete in more than 250 professional tournaments and win the 1973 Kelly Springfield Open in Brisbane, Australia. Powell has dedicated her life to expanding golf to more youth, seniors, minorities and military veterans around the globe. She has also contributed to the sport through broadcasting and a line of sports clothing.

Winner of numerous awards and honors for her work and achievements over five decades associated with the game of golf, Powell is the third American, and the only woman golfer, to ever receive an honorary doctorate from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland, in its now 600-year history. The University also bestowed the honor of naming a residence hall after her.

Powell’s insights and journey offers an exciting story of resilience, achievements and community impact as a golfer, leader and businesswoman.