Principles

Members.
Education.
Employment.
Stewardship.

The PGA of America’s priority is to support PGA Members. We do that through mentoring—because nothing replaces learning from someone who has already walked the path—and through relevant education that keeps pace with an ever-changing industry, ensuring our Members and Associates are prepared for what’s next.

For PGA CEO Terry Clark and the staff to deliver, the Board must provide clear strategic direction and uphold fiscal responsibility—acting as disciplined stewards of our Members’ resources, ensuring transparency, and delivering value back to the membership.

In the end, it all comes back to four things: Members, Mentoring, Education, and Employment—supported by responsible leadership that keeps our Association strong.

  • As a young female professional beginning my career in the golf industry, having a mentor like Steve Parker has made an incredible impact in my journey. He has always made himself available, whether I’m calling for guidance on an important career decision or simply needing encouragement to keep pushing forward. He isn’t afraid to challenge me to be better, and that balance of support and accountability is what makes him such an exceptional mentor and leader for the future of the PGA of America and its members. 
    Meggie Flanigan
    PGA Associate
    First Assistant Golf Professional
    Sycamore Hills Golf Club

Members

The PGA of America was founded in 1916 to unite individuals who share the profession of serving as golf professionals, and that purpose must remain at the core of all that we do. Our primary focus should always be our PGA Members. The resources generated from our assets must be directed toward providing meaningful support, education, and opportunities that strengthen our Members’ careers and our profession as a whole.

Education & Employment

Along with mentoring, a strong commitment to professional development and education is essential. By offering programs that are continually updated and relevant—through specialized training, certifications, workshops, and webinars—we equip our Members with the tools they need to grow, adapt, and excel in an ever-evolving industry. When education and mentorship work together, they create a pathway for sustained success and ensure our Association continues to elevate the standard of the profession.

Stewardship

Fiscal responsibility is essential to the strength and credibility of the PGA of America. As a PGA Officer, it means being a disciplined steward of our Members’ resources—ensuring transparency, accountability, and that every dollar delivers value back to the membership. With four years serving on the PGA Budget Committee, I’ve seen the progress firsthand, and without a doubt, we have improved our financial reporting. The Board is more aware than ever of where our dollars are being spent, and we are better equipped to make strategic decisions that benefit the PGA Member and our Sections.

  • “The First Tee is most fortunate to have individuals, like you, who have embraced our mission and work tirelessly to assure that The First Tee is successful. Your commitment and dedication to a program that truly does impact the lives of our youth, and our leaders, is deeply appreciated.”
    Joe Louis Barrow, Jr.
    Chief Executive Officer, The First Tee
  • I am proud to strongly support Steve Parker for the position of Secretary of the PGA. Steve represents the very best of our profession—integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to advancing the game of golf.  Steve has held different positions as a PGA member that will allow him to understand the ever evolving opportunities for PGA professionals. Steve brings a thoughtful, strategic mindset combined with real-world business acumen—qualities that are essential for safeguarding and strengthening the financial future of the PGA of America. He is a trusted leader who will serve the membership with transparency, discipline, and a genuine passion for our profession.
    Jimmy Hanlin, PGA
    Golf course owner
    Tv/Radio Host-Personality

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