Earlier this month, LGA interns Laura Ann Hopkinson (Marketing & Communications) and Deangelo Hines (Championship Operations) traveled to Liberty Corner, New Jersey, to attend the 2025 P.J. Boatwright Internship Summit hosted at the USGA’s national headquarters. Held from May 19–21, the summit brought together nearly 90 Boatwright interns from Allied Golf Associations across the country for three days of in-depth learning, networking, and exposure to the many pathways within the golf industry.
The experience began with a welcome reception inside the USGA Museum, where attendees explored the facility’s extensive collections—including a standout trophy room and exhibits highlighting the history of women in golf. The impressive surroundings helped set the stage for a summit designed to inspire and inform.
Throughout the program, interns participated in a variety of sessions and breakout discussions covering key areas such as handicapping, GHIN, championship administration, and rules. Both Laura Ann and Deangelo found particular value in the player relations and championship administration sessions. Laura Ann also appreciated learning about the U.S. National Development Program, an initiative she was previously unfamiliar with but found especially meaningful.
The summit offered structured time to rotate through four breakout learning groups, giving interns hands-on exposure to topics like the Green Section, broadcast production, and First Tee operations. Activities like the First Tee setup contest and a putting championship added energy and camaraderie to the experience.
Beyond the scheduled programming, the summit also encouraged connection. Interns engaged with USGA staff, Boatwright alumni, and each other—sharing stories, career goals, and insights into the unique work happening in AGAs around the country. For both LGA interns, these conversations deepened their understanding of the golf industry’s scale and diversity.
For Deangelo, the summit was a chance to hear from experienced professionals like USGA CEO Mike Whan, whose perspective on leadership and resilience left a lasting impact. The trip also marked his first visit to New Jersey, blending professional growth with a new travel experience. For Laura Ann, the summit broadened her view of career possibilities within golf, reinforcing her interest in continuing to work in the sport beyond her current internship.
The 2025 P.J. Boatwright Summit was a powerful reminder of how much opportunity exists within the game of golf—and how much collaboration it takes to support it. Both Laura Ann and Deangelo returned to Louisiana with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to bring their experiences back to the LGA and continue learning as young professionals in the golf community.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Maili Bartz
Director of Marketing and Communications
maili@lgagolf.org