Two Florida A&M University School of Journalism & Graphic Communication students were selected this summer to join a class of 25 undergraduate and graduate students for the fifth annual 2026 Pathways Discover Program during the 126th U.S. Open Championship at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club.
In June, Spring 2026 journalism graduate Hannah Kirby and senior public relations student Kennedy Richardson traveled to New York for an immersive internship hosted by the United States Golf Association, which gave them an inside look at how to leverage their skills to explore careers in golf. The experience included networking, mentorship, executive leadership sessions, and hands-on operational training.
Organizers said the 2026 class was chosen from the largest and most competitive applicant pool in the program’s history, with 782 applications submitted from candidates representing 44 states and nine countries.
USGA Chief Legal and Administrative Officer Michael Lee said the Pathways program is designed to “ensure emerging talent can build meaningful careers in the game of golf and the broader sports industry for years to come.”
Kirby and Richardson had the opportunity to see firsthand how impactful careers in golf can be for media and communications professionals. They shadowed professionals across championship operations, merchandise, communications, technology, player services, and hospitality. They also participated in and attended a women’s panel, capstone presentations, and roundtable discussions with industry insiders.
Both said the experience left them with a new perspective and curiosity about how engaging with the sport could shape their career paths. They are also benefiting from a one-on-one peer mentorship initiative, which includes 25 program alumni mentors.
“I enjoyed every experience that we had, including getting to learn from different professionals and about the different industries inside the game,” Kirby said. “What stood out to me the most is that most people working in golf did not have a linear path to get there. A lot of business deals are closed in the green boardroom, but many are intimidated to set foot in the space because it’s unfamiliar. This internship leveled the playing field for me, showing me I can have a seat at any table I want.”
Richardson said the program opened the door for her to explore new passions.
“Being selected for the USGA Pathways Discover Program was such a blessing and truly an eye-opening experience. It’s programs like these that help students find their passion, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity,” Richardson said. “During the program, I not only got to learn about the golf industry, but I was also able to expand my network and build relationships with my cohort. It was even better being able to experience the U.S. Open with my fellow Rattler. I am grateful for the opportunity.”
During the 10-day program, the students also engaged with representatives from Deloitte, the program’s founding sponsor, and NBCUniversal through USGA’s work with NBC Sports and the NBCU Academy.
Other brands supporting the program include Ally, American Express, Cisco, Lexus, Peter Millar, Sentry and Rolex.
Learn more about the program here.
Additional reporting by Chloe Waites, public relations student.
Gallery: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the USGA Pathways Discover Experience
