Renee Powell (PGA/LPGA) continues to embody grace, strength, and enduring influence in the world of golf. Widely recognized as the First Lady of Golf, Powell serves as Head Golf Professional at her Clearview Golf Course in East Canton, Ohio and is a trailblazer whose legacy is deeply rooted in both heritage and service.
Powell was among the distinguished guests at the annual “Love of the Game Dinner,” held at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in celebration of its 79th anniversary in June. This year’s dinner paid tribute to Franco Harris, the late Pittsburgh Steelers legend and longtime supporter of the Hall. The event also commemorated the 50th anniversary of the “Immaculate Reception,” a historic play in NFL history in which Harris played a pivotal role. Harris, who passed away in December 2022, was not only known for helping lead the Steelers to four Super Bowl titles, but also for his humanitarian work, including being named the NFL’s Man of the Year in 1976.
(photos by Linnet E. Carty)
The celebration brought together athletes, veterans, and supporters including Clark Kellogg, Ben Davis, Greg Pruitt, Campy Russell, Cheyenne Woods, Shasta Averyhardt, Jerome Bettis, and members of the Harris family. Also in attendance was Rhett Evans, CEO of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. Also among the elite was Linnet Carty, Corporate Director Representation & HBCU Championship. “I’m privileged to know the living legend, Renee Powell, simply powerful.” stated Carty.
In a significant gesture of support, Michael Kuhn and his company generously donated a new irrigation system to Clearview Golf Course. As the foundation looks ahead to its 80th anniversary, the evening served as a powerful reminder of Clearview’s historic legacy and the profound impact of those who have nurtured it.
Her accomplishments reflect a life devoted to equality and education through golf. Among her many honors, a dormitory at the historic University of St. Andrews in Scotland now bears her name. She and her father remain the only father-daughter pair inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame. Her dedication to service is also evident through Clearview H.O.P.E. (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), a therapeutic golf program for women veterans, which she continues to lead with compassion and commitment.
Powell’s father, Dr. Bill Powell, founded Clearview Golf Course in Ohio, the only course in the United States designed, built, owned, and operated by an African American. He created it by “heart and hand” during a time of widespread racial injustice. Renee Powell has since carried forward his legacy through her leadership of the Clearview Legacy Foundation.
