The Women In Golf Foundation, Inc. (WIGF), a trailblazing organization dedicated to creating opportunities for women and girls in the game of golf, has officially announced its support for the upcoming African American Golf Expo & Forum (AAGE&F). This collaboration underscores both organizations’ shared mission to expand diversity, inclusion, and access within the sport while honoring the legacy of African American contributions to golf.
Founded in 1995 by visionary leader LaJean Gould, the Women In Golf Foundation has worked tirelessly for three decades to empower women and girls through golf. The foundation provides scholarships, junior golf development, leadership training, and annual signature events such as the Women’s Collegiate Golf Championship, which attracts HBCU golf programs from across the country. WIGF has played a pivotal role in advancing golf’s reach in underserved communities, nurturing talent and promoting leadership both on and off the course.
The African American Golf Expo & Forum, launched in 2021 by industry veteran James Beatty, has quickly become the premier national gathering for African Americans and allies in golf. The Expo serves as a platform for business networking, education, career development, and youth engagement, drawing diverse participation from golfers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and community organizations. With a mission centered on economic opportunity, exposure, and awareness, the Expo continues to grow as a vital resource for building pathways into golf.
In announcing the Women In Golf Foundation’s support, WIGF founder and president LaJean Gould said:
“The Women In Golf Foundation is proud to support the mission of the AAG Expo, as it aligns closely with our commitment to creating opportunities, expanding access, and advancing diversity in the game of golf. Your work has opened important doors for African American golfers, industry professionals, and businesses, and we are grateful
for your leadership in carrying this forward.”
James Beatty, founder of the African American Golf Expo & Forum, expressed his gratitude for the partnership, noting the foundation’s decades-long impact on golf.
“We are deeply thankful to LaJean Gould and the Women In Golf Foundation for their unwavering support. LaJean’s leadership and the Foundation’s legacy of advancing women and minority participation in golf have paved the way for so many. Having their endorsement amplifies our mission and reminds us that when we work together, we expand opportunities for everyone. Their support is both inspiring and invaluable.”
The partnership between the Women In Golf Foundation and the AAGE&F sends a powerful message: diversity in golf is not only possible, but it is essential for the sport’s growth. Together, these organizations are helping ensure that golf’s future is more inclusive, equitable, and accessible.
The 6th Annual African American Golf Expo & Forum is being held January 21-24, 2026 in Orlando, FL co-locate at the PGA SHOW, golf’s largest annual global business event, organized by the PGA of America and PGA Golf Exhibitions, providing opportunities for industry professionals to connect, source products, and learn about innovations in the sport.
Registration for the AAGE&F officially opened on June 15 and will continue to build momentum by offering workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities, golf outings, and youth programs, all designed to engage the community and expand pathways into the game. With the Women In Golf Foundation’s support, the Expo is poised to further strengthen its impact in 2025 and beyond. [VIEW ENTIRE LETTER]
For more information, visit:
- Women In Golf Foundation: www.womeningolffoundation.org
- African American Golf Expo & Forum: www.aagolfexpo.com
