USF Sport Management Alumni Advance Access and Inclusion in Golf

USF alumni Joe Jackson ’21 and Lexis Withers ’23 with USGA, along with Morris Thomas ’22 with the Southern California Golf Association (SCGA), represent a new generation of sports leaders committed not only to growing the game, but also to making golf more equitable, accessible, and inclusive for future generations.

Their work reflects the mission of the University of San Francisco to “Change the World From Here,” using sports as a platform for advocacy, opportunity, and meaningful community impact.

Opening Doors Through Opportunity

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For Thomas, a single opportunity shared through the USF Sport Management program helped launch a career in golf that he never expected.

“One of the internship opportunities shared by the program was with the United States Golf Association in collaboration with The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts,” Thomas said. “Looking back now, that opportunity completely changed the trajectory of my career. Without it, I would not be where I am today.”

Now working at the Southern California Golf Association (SCGA) at the intersection of public affairs, advocacy, sports, and government, Thomas focuses on building relationships and supporting collaborative initiatives that create stronger connections between sports organizations and the communities they serve.

His experience within the golf industry and his work with the SCGA have also reshaped how he views leadership within the sport. “My role has taught me that this industry is about much more than just showing up for the people who already love the game,” Thomas said. “It’s about creating opportunities, educating others, and helping make the sport more welcoming and accessible for future generations.”

My role has taught me that this industry is about... creating opportunities, educating others, and helping make the sport more welcoming and accessible for future generations.”

Morris Thomas ’22

Thomas believes that willingness to embrace uncertainty and step outside of one’s comfort zone is critical for students pursuing careers in sports. Thomas advises students to take as many chances as they can. “I took a chance on something that was completely outside of my comfort zone, and it led me into an industry that continues to grow and evolve every day. Being able to grow alongside it and contribute in different ways has been one of the most defining experiences of my life.”

Building Representation and Inclusion in Golf

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Lexis Withers is also helping expand representation and inclusion within the golf industry through her work at the USGA. Withers always knew that her career passion lay in community outreach and relations. As a graduate student, Withers interned for both Major League Baseball and the Los Angeles Lakers. She was also selected to participate in USGA’s Lee Elder Internship Program, now known as the Pathways Discover Program. “[The Pathways Discover Program] gave real-world exposure to the industry and allowed me to build meaningful relationships while gaining a deeper understanding of how the business of golf operates,” Withers said.

Her work as an intern laid the foundation for an opportunity to relocate to New Jersey post-graduation for a full-time role. Now serving as Manager, Culture, Community, and Inclusion at the USGA, Withers has developed a deeper appreciation for the relationship-driven nature of the golf industry and the importance of inclusive leadership. “I’ve gained a greater appreciation for how dynamic and relationship-driven the golf industry is,” Withers said. “It has reinforced the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and inclusive leadership in driving impact both within organizations and across the broader sports landscape.”

As a first-generation college graduate, Withers has remained committed to creating pathways for students of color and underrepresented communities. “My goal is to create spaces for individuals of color to not only have a seat at the table, but to be the ones initiating those conversations,” Withers said.

My goal is to create spaces for individuals of color to not only have a seat at the table, but to be the ones initiating those conversations.”

Lexis Withers ’23

Looking back on her journey, Withers encourages students interested in sports and golf to remain open-minded and embrace unexpected opportunities. “One piece of advice I’d give students is to stay open-minded and lean into opportunities that may not initially feel like the perfect fit,” Withers said. “Some of the most impactful experiences come from roles or projects you didn’t expect to enjoy, but that ultimately help you grow and uncover new interests.”

She also credits the USF Sport Management program with helping shape her professional path. “I’m really grateful for my time at USF and how it helped shape my career path,” Withers said. “The connections, experiences, and support from peers and faculty played a huge role in getting me to where I am today.”

Creating Opportunities Behind the Scenes

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Joe Jackson also plays a critical role in helping shape the future workforce of the USGA. In his role supporting talent acquisition and recruiting efforts across 28 departments, Jackson helps hire more than 150 interns annually to support championships and major business initiatives.

Jackson’s people-first approach centers on building inclusive talent pipelines and creating opportunities for early-career professionals seeking to enter the sports industry. “The impact I would like to have is to have been a person that advocated for the doors to be open to everyone. A person who made an impact on creating an environment that is reflective of the world we see. “A former United States Navy paralegal and logistics specialist, Jackson brings leadership, discipline, and a commitment to service into his work supporting future sports professionals.

Together, Jackson, Withers, and Thomas represent the impact USF Sport Management alumni are making throughout the sports industry, not only by contributing to major sporting events like the U.S. Women’s Open, but by helping ensure the future of golf becomes more accessible and inclusive. Their journeys also reflect the broader mission of the University of San Francisco: preparing leaders who use their education and experiences to create meaningful change in their communities and industries.

Visit us at usfca.edu/sm to learn more about the MS in Sport Management program.