Haigler to Highlight Youth Development and the Charlie Sifford Golf Academy During the Orlando Event
ORLANDO, FLORIDA — Jim Beatty, CEO of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures and founder of the African American Golf EXPO & Forum, announced that John Haigler, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Pro-Duffers USA Inc. National Foundation, will serve as a featured speaker and panelist at EXPO 2027, scheduled for January 24–28, 2027, in Orlando, Florida.
The African American Golf EXPO & Forum is a series of community and educational events designed to inform and educate communities of color about recreational, competitive, and business opportunities within the golf industry, estimated at $102 billion.
Haigler will participate in the EXPO’s “Building Excellence in Our Communities” segment, where he will discuss the Pro-Duffers Foundation’s commitment to youth development, education, and expanding access to opportunities throughout the golf industry.
“The Pro-Duffers Foundation is pleased to support the EXPO and eager to join in informing the community about opportunities in golf,” Haigler stated.
During his presentation, Haigler will discuss the foundation’s sponsorship and involvement in the historic inaugural Charlie Sifford Golf Academy, held in 2026 at Eastern Michigan University. The week-long golf and leadership experience brought together eight elite African American junior golfers for instruction, development, and educational enrichment. The academy was co-sponsored by PGA TOUR Superstore.
The program honored the legacy of Charlie Sifford, a pioneering African American professional golfer who broke racial barriers in the sport, while providing young golfers with opportunities to strengthen their skills and develop leadership qualities.
EXPO 2027 will feature a range of activities, including a free golf clinic for youth and adults, the Jim Beatty 2 Person Scramble, the Diversity Roundtable, educational workshops, awards, and exhibits. The EXPO will once again be colocated with the PGA Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.
Registration and event information are available at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/african-american-golf-expo-diversity-roundtable-and-the-pga-show-tickets-1989671221183
About the African American Golf EXPO & Forum
Founded in 2021 by Jim Beatty, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum has directly and indirectly served an estimated 6,000 people across the cities where it has been held. Its economic impact has been estimated at $3 million, and more than 100 companies and organizations have exhibited at the EXPO.
The event provides a platform for networking, education, business development, youth engagement, and community outreach. It brings together golfers, industry professionals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and supporters committed to expanding opportunities for people of color in golf.
Since 2025, the EXPO has been held in conjunction with the PGA Show at the Orange County Convention Center, strengthening connections between diverse communities and the broader golf industry. For more informaton and to register for the EXPO contact: Jim Beatty, Jim Beatty Golf Ventures at www.aaexpo.com
About the Pro-Duffers Foundation, Inc.
The Pro-Duffers Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities and financial resources that help African Americans develop skills, pursue excellence, and explore careers in golf.
The foundation’s mission is to promote self-esteem, academic excellence, character, and sportsmanship among young people through achievement in the classroom and participation in golf.
Through educational opportunities and financial assistance, the foundation supports aspiring and disadvantaged youth and junior golfers, emphasizing personal development, integrity, and respect for the traditions of the game. Its programs seek to provide meaningful life experiences while helping young people develop the skills and confidence necessary to pursue their academic, personal, and professional goals. For more information, visit https://www.pdnationalfoundation.org/.
