Former labor attorney has served as the site director of LPGA*USGA Girls Golf of Greater Newark since 2005
Dr. Beverly Harrison, renowned for her career in law, has dedicated almost two decades to empowering young girls as the site director of LPGA*USGA Girls Golf of Greater Newark since 2005. While Dr. Harrison’s legal accomplishments are notable, her profound impact on the lives of girls through golf surpasses her legal achievements. This commitment to fostering the development of future generations of women has earned her the prestigious 2024 Sandy LaBauve Spirit Award. Dr. Harrison is the first African American and the first non-LPGA member to win this coveted award, according to a close LPGA source.
The award, named after the founder of LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, was presented to Dr. Harrison on Thursday, January 25, by Nancy Henderson, Chief Teaching Officer/President LPGA Foundation. The award recognizes individuals who exceed expectations in inspiring junior lives through their passion and dedication to empowering girls through golf. LaBauve, who founded Girls Golf in 1989, was an LPGA Teaching Professional in Phoenix, Arizona, and a mother of two daughters
Sitting alongside Dr. Harrison at her table of honor were three significant individuals, the President, Executive Director and and an officer from the 100 Black Men of New York. The distinguished organization supports Harrison by hosting her girls in its annual fundraising tournament each year. Dr. Harrison also shared the special occasion with her dear friends- Leroy and Albertha Hicks from The Bronx who live in Lake Nona, Florida.
Harrison’s drive is evident throughout her career. She demonstrated dedication by earning her Juris Doctor (JD) degree, followed by 36 years of service as a labor attorney and direct report to university and college presidents in the State University of New York system. Even in retirement, Harrison remains active as an arbitrator and mediator, alongside her love for golf.
Introduced to the Renaissance Junior Golf Program in the mid-90s, Harrison’s involvement expanded beyond supporting the nonprofit as her golf club, The Lady Drivers, embraced it as their chosen charity. Fueled by her passion for golf and the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to play, Harrison began volunteering regularly. Witnessing the organization’s impact on youth, particularly girls, inspired her to establish Girls Golf of Greater Newark in 2005. Since then, she has tirelessly worked to provide the best experiences for participants.
Megha Ganne, a Girls Golf of Greater Newark alumna and Stanford University standout, praises Harrison’s strong leadership and palpable love for the game, describing how she inspired confidence in her.
In her commitment to broaden horizons, Harrison initiated a speaker program, bringing accomplished women from various segments of the golf industry to expose girls to diverse possibilities. Encouraging self-expression and a strong voice, she fosters a sisterhood of boldness and empowerment by having girls speak on microphones each week.
Harrison imparts old-school values, emphasizing handwritten thank-you notes, discipline, and respect at all times. She halts classes or presentations to remind girls about the importance of respecting speakers and not talking while others are speaking.
While proud of her program’s ability to empower, Harrison equally emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities. Encouraging girls to participate in community initiatives and LPGA opportunities, such as the Cognizant Founders Cup Pro-Am, reflects her commitment to both empowerment and opportunity.
Over the years, Girls Golf of Greater Newark has transformed from a junior program into a close-knit family, where older members mentor new participants. This evolution aligns with Harrison’s heartfelt mission to uplift future generations of girls through golf.
Ultimately, whether these women continue with the game or not, they have all been equipped with the tools to succeed in life, thanks to the tireless efforts and dedication of Dr. Harrison.
