THE JOHN SHIPPEN INVITATIONAL & Sports Business Summit aims to create opportunities in golf for black men and women, to ensure his story is told and preserve his legacy, which is not just one of Black History, but American.

The John Shippen Jr. Achievement Scholarship was created in honor of the world’s unsung golf hero John Shippen Jr.  This $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to current students of color (High School Junior – Graduate Student Status) who encourages diversity and show exemplary leadership and service on campus and in their community.

Who is John Shippen Jr.?

John Shippen, Jr. was not only the first Black golf professional; he was the first American born golf professional, breaking societal and racial barriers through opportunities the game of golf presented him. ​

Shippen was introduced to golf in 1894 when a 12-hole golf course, later expanded to 18 holes, was built near the Indian reservation in Shinnecock Hills (Long Island, New York).  Willie Dunn, a Scottish golfer and owner of the golf course, taught some of the local youth, including John Shippen Jr., who became one of his best students.  At the age of 16, he worked full-time at the famed Shinnecock Hills Golf Club as a caddy, an instructor, and as part of the maintenance crew.   ​

Opportunity arose when Shinnecock Hills Golf Club hosted the 2nd U.S. Open in 1896. As one of the club’s best players, Shinnecock Hills voted John and his friend Oscar Bunn, of Native American descent, to play in the event. USGA President Theodore Havemeyer stood against backlash of written protests from fellow competitors and demonstrated allyship.​

John’s participation and prowess in the game of golf paved the way for all golfers today who stand on his shoulders.