Former Western New Mexico University women's golfer Shandiin Harper has been named to the 2025-26 class of PGA WORKS Fellowship, representing the Sun Country PGA Section. The fellowship is recognized as a significant entry-level opportunity in the golf industry, offering a year-long, paid experience within a PGA of America Section's foundation operations.
"Being selected as a PGA WORKS Fellow has been an incredibly meaningful opportunity for me," said Harper. "This experience has already connected me with inspiring professionals and mentors, and I'm committed to using it as a stepping stone toward a long term career in the golf industry."
Head Golf Coach Harry O'Callaghan expressed his support for Harper’s selection. "We are incredibly proud of Shandiin's induction into the class of 2025-26 PGA WORKS Fellowship," he said. "I also want to congratulate the 22 other inductees. Shandiin is in great company and is fully deserving of her spot."
The fellowship program was established in 2017 and supports philanthropic initiatives, youth development programs such as PGA Jr. League, and efforts like PGA HOPE for veterans. According to Don Rea Jr., President of the PGA of America, "We are thrilled to welcome our new class of PGA WORKS Fellows to their respective PGA Sections. Our PGA WORKS Fellowship program isn't just about opening doors, it's about equipping the next generation of leaders and ensuring those doors lead to meaningful career paths and lasting connections."
Harper graduated from Western New Mexico University in 2025 after a notable collegiate golf career. During her senior year, she played in ten tournaments with an average score of 78.75, achieved her best round at the Grisham Memorial Shootout with a score of 71, finished fourth at the SMSU Spring Invitational, and was the only Mustang to qualify for the PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship where she placed sixteenth overall.
In previous years at WNMU, Harper consistently competed in tournaments and received academic honors including recognition on both the LSC Academic Honor Roll and WNMU Dean's List.
Coach O'Callaghan commented further on Harper’s impact: "Throughout her time as a Mustang Shandiin showed an unwavering passion for the game of golf," he said. "She is now channeling that to help others and it is awesome to see. I'm excited to see where this opportunity takes Shandiin and I know she will be successful."
The fellowship serves as an entry point into careers within what is estimated as a $102 billion golf industry nationwide (https://www.pga.com/story/the-economic-impact-of-golf-in-america). Since its start, data show that 89 percent of fellows have secured jobs within golf following their participation; 83 percent have obtained full-time positions after completing their fellowships.
As part of her fellowship experience, Harper will attend major events including the 2025 Ryder Cup, PGA Championship, and the PGA Show—opportunities expected to expand her professional network within golf.
Looking ahead beyond her fellowship term, Harper plans to focus on youth development with equitable opportunities across backgrounds in hopes of becoming an industry leader who inspires future generations.
PGA WORKS operates under the umbrella of The PGA REACH Foundation—a charitable organization aiming to provide access for youth, military personnel, and diverse communities through various programs involving professional golfers (https://www.pgareach.org/).
Western New Mexico University participates in NCAA Division II athletics as part of the Lone Star Conference.
