Honoring golf’s trailblazers while investing in its future, the Marilynn Smith Sunday Tea and Scholarship Pro-Am at Westin Kierland Resort celebrated LPGA co-founder Marilynn Smith and the 13 Founders. The events strengthen Arizona’s golf community and support the Arizona Alliance for Golf’s mission to grow and protect an inclusive game for all.
Events Raise Over $155,000 for Scholarships
The two events generated more than $155,000, enabling the selection of 25 young women for the 2026 class of Marilynn Smith Pearls scholarships. The funds provide life-changing support for aspiring female golfers while preserving the legacy of women’s professional golf.
Debbie Waitkus, founder of Golf for Cause and co-founder/chair of the Marilynn Smith & Founders’ Legacy Foundation, shared the excitement: “Well after the last putt dropped just under two weeks ago, we’re still relishing in the joy of celebrating Marilynn Smith and the other Founders and their legacies.”
Arizona Alliance for Golf Honors Pioneers’ Inclusive Legacy
The Arizona Alliance for Golf expresses deep appreciation for Marilynn Smith and the LPGA pioneers who overcame doubt and barriers to make golf more inclusive. Their perseverance opened doors for generations of women and girls, directly aligning with AAG’s efforts to unify the industry, promote access, and ensure golf benefits all Arizonans.
Two 2026 Pearls captured that inspiration:
“The Founders were faced with the challenge of whether women’s professional golf would even be able to succeed or not. I admire Marilynn and the Founders greatly for being able to persevere even when doubted.”
— Alyssa Swedzinski, 2026 Pearl
“Marilynn’s example reminds me that setbacks and skepticism do not define success; rather, success is shaped by confidence, commitment, and perseverance. As I pursue my future in women’s golf, I am encouraged to be bold, resilient, and supportive of others.”
— Julia Conroy, 2026 Pearl
Gratitude for Hosts and Participants
Special thanks to Nancy Dickens, Director of Golf at Kierland, and her staff, along with LPGA stars Beth Daniel, Meg Mallon, Jane Crafter, and all participating professionals.
Save the Date for 2027
Save the date for 2027: Sunday Tea on April 26 and Scholarship Pro-Am on April 27.
The Legacy of Louise Suggs
“The Ancestry Project: The History of Women in Golf” is a new video series by Golf It Forward celebrating the 13 LPGA founders. This first episode honors Louise Suggs and features personal stories from her nephew Joel Suggs, Hall of Famers Beth Daniel and Meg Mallon, and LPGA member Carla Glasgow.
