Jordan’s Fantastic Journey
Greensboro, NC – When I started this job almost a year ago, I couldn’t have imagined the incredible journey it would take me on, both literally and figuratively. While I anticipated some of the opportunities ahead due to my fortunate position, I was pleasantly surprised by the fun and enriching experiences that unfolded.
My adventure began in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, home of the PGA Tour and TPC Sawgrass. Here, my alma mater, North Carolina A&T, competed in the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship (PWCC), the most culturally significant tournament in golf. As the first PGA WORKS Fellow from the Carolinas invited to work the PWCC, my brief but impactful weekend included participating in Youth Day and Beyond the Green, a career exploration event for high school and college students interested in golf and beyond.
Returning to Charlotte, I prepared for the next leg of my journey: the Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow Club. This week-long event offered me an insider’s view of running a PGA Tour event. I shadowed leaders across various departments, including food & beverage, hospitality, clubhouse operations, player services, and retail. The experience was immensely rewarding, and I felt welcomed into the Quail Hollow family. Watching Rory McIlroy’s thrilling final round victory was a memorable highlight.
Immediately after the Wells Fargo Championship, I flew to Louisville, Kentucky, for the Secretary’s Cup and PGA Championship. Reconnecting with friends from the Orlando PGA Show and working alongside PGA HOPE Parris Island was a joy. Despite missing some social events due to my duties, I felt the excitement build as our team confidently prepared for the 9-hole competition. Serving as the team’s standard bearer, I witnessed firsthand the shift from tension to joy, especially after Earl White’s impressive long drive and 60-foot putt that set the birdie train in motion.
Tuesday’s Beyond the Green event allowed Fellows to engage with local youth and high school students. Inspiring speakers like Michael Collins from ESPN and the Lexus Experiential Marketing Manager shared valuable insights. Students even participated in a pitch competition to design their own signature golf tournaments. Following this, we explored Valhalla Golf Club, adding to the excitement.
Our final day in Louisville included a cultural immersion at the Muhammad Ali Museum, where we learned about Ali’s life and legacy. It was enlightening to delve into his achievements both inside and outside the boxing ring, deepening my appreciation for him as a historical figure.
These two weeks were long but incredibly rewarding, filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s see what the summer holds!