At Dormie Workshop, we believe in the power of stories that inspire and uplift. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are proud to shine a spotlight on individuals whose remarkable journeys have left an indelible mark on history. Today, we are thrilled to share the inspiring story of Renee Powell, a trailblazer in the world of golf and the second Black woman to grace the greens of the LPGA Tour.

Professional golfer and educator Renee Powell is the world’s most recognized ambassador for diversity in her sport. Born in East Canton, Ohio, Powell’s professional career began during the turbulent civil rights era of the 1960s.
Her resilience made her a beacon to attract persons of color and more women into the game of golf. She is the second Black woman to compete on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour, and recipient of several milestone honors, including the first female golfer to receive an honorary doctor of laws degree in the 600-year-plus history of the University of St. Andrews. In 2015, she was one of seven women named Honorary Members of the 260-year-old Royal & Ancient Golf Club.
In 2018, Powell became the first American honored by the University with her name chiseled into stone of a campus facility –Powell Hall.
Today, the Powell Education Building at her home, Clearview Golf Club in East Canton, Ohio, hosts seminars, charitable events, and golf programs for players of all abilities.

She is the founder of Clearview HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), the nation’s first year-round all-female veterans rehabilitative golf program.
The daughter of William and Marcella Powell, her father is the only African American to design, build, own, and operate a golf course in the United States, Powell captained The Ohio State University women’s golf team and debuted on the LPGA Tour in 1967. She competed in 250 professional golf tournaments worldwide. In the UK, she was the first woman named Head Professional at a private golf course - Silvermere.
Completing her Tour career, she taught golf in Africa and Europe and later returned home as PGA Head Professional at Clearview Golf Club, designated by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a member of the National Register of Historic Places.

Renee Powell's unwavering dedication to her craft and her pioneering spirit continue to inspire generations of athletes and enthusiasts alike. As we celebrate Black History Month, let us honour and recognize her enduring legacy. At Dormie Workshop, we stand in awe of her family’s contributions to the game we love and remain committed to amplifying diverse voices that unite us all. Join us in celebrating the Powell family and the countless other Black leaders whose stories shape our world.