The LPGA is committed to changing the face of golf, making the sport we love more diverse, accessible, and inclusive. This month we are proud to share the stories of our Black Tour players, teachers, amateurs, and junior golfers as we celebrate Black History Month.
Title/Employer: LPGA Foundation Board Member
LPGA.com: What does Black History Month mean to you?
Jacqueline Nickelberry: February is an annual reminder that Black history is American history—a narrative of excellence, strength, and innovation.
Q: Which historical African American has been a source of inspiration in your life (and why)?
A: Barbara Jordan, she was the first African American elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction and the first Southern African American woman elected to the United States House of Representatives. She was always willing to call out wrongs and fight for justice, truth and power.
Q: In the coming years, what role do you see African Americans playing in the golf industry?
A: Access equals opportunity. As more African Americans start playing, we will see even more young people embracing the sport. Data shows that Millennials and younger don’t want to participate in homogeneous environments. They understand that diversity breeds perspective, transformation, and performance.
Q: How do you celebrate/honor Black History Month each year?
A: We financially support an organization, community organizer, or person pushing the needle on the ever-present fight for civil rights.
Q: What resources/tools do you recommend for those who would like to learn more about Black History? (Movies, documentaries, series, books, podcasts)
A: A multi-day visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C. should be compulsory learning for every American. The museum poignantly tells the narratives of black Americans from the pre-middle passage to today. It is a multi-disciplinary experience using film, food, photography, and sound.
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