Preserve Shady Rest, the nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring the historic Shady Rest Country Club—the first Black-owned and operated country club in the United States—will be represented at the African American Golf EXPO & Forum and the PGA Show, taking place January 20–24, 2026, in Orlando, Florida.
Representing Preserve Shady Rest at both events will be Chairperson Tom Donatelli, Nina Donatelli, and Vice Chairperson Jim Checchio. Preserve Shady Rest will host an exhibitor table at the African American Golf EXPO & Forum on January 21–22, 2026, where representatives will engage with attendees, industry leaders, and community partners to share the organization’s mission, history, and vision for the future of Shady Rest Country Club.
Golf legend John Shippen left a lasting legacy at Shady Rest Country Club in Scotch Plains, NJ, where he served as head professional from 1924 until his retirement in 1960. His tenure marked a golden era for the club, which became a social and cultural nexus for Black intellectuals, artists, and athletes. Shippen’s influence extended beyond the fairways, as he nurtured the talents of many, including tennis legend Althea Gibson. He is believed to be the first American-born golf professional.
Preserve Shady Rest extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Beatty, founder and organizer of the African American Golf EXPO & Forum, for his leadership and continued commitment to fostering inclusion, opportunity, and cultural awareness within the game of golf. The African American Golf EXPO & Forum has become a nationally recognized platform that celebrates Black excellence while creating meaningful connections across the golf industry.
The African American Golf EXPO & Forum coincides with the PGA Show, the global golf industry’s premier annual event, which runs January 20–23, 2026. Together, these events provide Preserve Shady Rest with a powerful opportunity to elevate the story of Shady Rest Country Club, connect with industry stakeholders, and build partnerships that support historic preservation and community engagement.
“Our participation in these events is about honoring the legacy of Shady Rest while strengthening relationships that will help ensure its future,” said Tom Donatelli, Chairperson of Preserve Shady Rest. “We are grateful to Jim Beatty and the African American Golf EXPO & Forum for creating a space where history, community, and the future of golf intersect.”
Preserve Shady Rest’s participation underscores its commitment to education, advocacy, and collaboration as it works to restore Shady Rest Country Club as a nationally recognized cultural landmark and community asset.
For more information about Preserve Shady Rest or to connect during the events, please visit https://preserveshadyrest.org/.
