On Saturday, September 18, 2027, the National Black Golf Hall of Fame (NBGHF) will induct its 41st Anniversary Class in Atlanta, Georgia.
Heading this year’s class is Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio. Designed and built by William J. Powell, a World War II veteran who was denied access to many American golf courses because of his race, Clearview holds a special place in American golf history. Powell began construction in 1946 and completed the course in 1948. Clearview is recognized as the first golf course in the United States designed, built, and owned by an African American. The Ohio Historical Society’s marker at the course proudly carries its motto: “Putting the Fair in Fairway.”
Joining Clearview in the Class of 2027 is Ralph Stokes, Vice President of Social Impact Partnerships and Community Relations at PGA TOUR Superstore. Stokes made history as the first Black president of the Georgia State Golf Association.
Also being inducted is the Advocates Professional Golf Association, commonly known as the APGA Tour. Co-founded by Ken Bentley and Adrian Stills, PGA, in 2010, the APGA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization inspired by the documentary Uneven Fairways. The organization provides competitive playing opportunities for underrepresented golfers. Since its founding, the APGA has awarded thousands of dollars in prize money to aspiring professional golfers, helping them pursue their dreams of competing at higher levels.
Matthew Bacoate Jr., President of the Skyview Golf Association, will also be recognized. Bacoate took over the operation of the Skyview Open in 2013 and has been an integral part of the tournament since the late 1950s. He helped maintain its presence on the historic UGA Tour and has continued its legacy as an elite golf tournament.
The late Phyllis Meekins, an LPGA Teaching and Club Professional, is also among this year’s honorees. A member of the LPGA since 1981, Meekins obtained life status in 2001. In addition to her contributions to golf, she served overseas during World War II with the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.
The NBGHF induction weekend will take place Saturday and Sunday, September 18–19, 2027. Hotel and golf course locations will be announced on February 1, 2027.
The weekend will include special events hosted by NBGHF Chairman Jeff Dunovant, PGA. Jeff is the son of the organization’s founder, the late Harold Dunovant, who was also a PGA member.
Recognizing their historic distinction as the only Black father-and-son PGA members, Jeff Dunovant expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming celebration.
“As we enter our 41st year of operation, I’m excited and humbled to welcome these new and deserving members to our membership! If my father could only be here to witness what he started in 1986!”
ABOUT THE NATIONAL BLACK GOLF HALL OF FAME
The mission of the National Black Golf Hall of Fame is to celebrate and honor the exemplary achievements of Blacks in the golf industry. The organization also recognizes business and community leaders, regardless of race or ethnicity, who ensure that Blacks are presented with opportunities to participate in every facet of golf.
Founded in 1986 by the late Harold Dunovant, the National Black Golf Hall of Fame continues his legacy. Dunovant was the first African American to complete the PGA Business School.
2027 INDUCTION WEEKEND LINEUP
The 41st Anniversary Induction Weekend will take place September 18–19, 2027, in Atlanta, Georgia.
| DATE | EVENT | LOCATION | TIME / DETAILS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, September 18, 2027 | 41st Anniversary Induction | Atlanta, Georgia | To Be Announced February 1, 2027 |
| Sunday, September 19, 2027 | Harold Dunovant Golf Classic | Atlanta, Georgia | To Be Announced February 1, 2027 |
Additional details regarding hotel accommodations, golf course locations, and event times will be announced on February 1, 2027.
For more information contact John Simpson at 407.497.2233 or email [email protected]
