Braselton, GA – The American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) announced today that Jordan R. “Digger” Smith has stepped down as Chairman of the AJGA Board of Directors after 44 years of dedicated leadership and service. The organization also announced the appointment of Jim Nugent as the new Chairman of the Board and Angela Rho as President, ushering in a new chapter of leadership for the AJGA Board of Directors.
Smith's tenure as chairman has been marked by transformative initiatives and remarkable growth within the organization. Under his stewardship, the AJGA solidified its reputation as the premier organization for junior golf in the world, fostering the development of young talent and paving pathways for aspiring golfers to reach their full potential.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together as an organization. The AJGA’s mission of helping young golfers achieve their dreams has always been close to my heart, and it has been a privilege to contribute to that vision.”
“For over forty years Digger has been a father figure to me. He has guided me and the AJGA through many difficult situations. Whether it was a downturn in the economy, building two National Headquarters, or surviving a global pandemic, Digger’s leadership always put us on the right path. With a true servant’s heart, Digger always stayed committed to the AJGA’s Mission and Purpose of helping young men and women earn college golf scholarships. Digger won’t get the credit he deserves for it, but his major gift in 1980 not only changed junior golf in America, but it has also influenced the entire landscape of competitive golf throughout the world. I appreciate Digger’s long-standing vision and generous support. I admire his patient leadership, and I am forever grateful for the confidence he has in me, our Board of Directors and the AJGA staff.”
Stepping into the role of Chairman is Jim Nugent, a longtime supporter of the AJGA and an influential figure in the golf industry. Nugent has served in various media roles prior to becoming the founder and publisher of Global Golf Post, a leading digital golf publication. He brings a wealth of experience and passion for the game, having served on the AJGA Board of Directors for 29 years as a member, Vice President and currently serving as President.
“I am honored to take on the role of Chairman and continue the incredible legacy that Digger has built. Digger has been an inspiration to countless Board members over four decades. His vision for and commitment to the Mission and Purpose of the AJGA has been amazing. The leadership he provided to the Board motivated us to do everything we could to provide the staff the support it so richly deserved.”
Angela Rho, a former AJGA standout and advocate for junior golf, will assume the role of President. Rho specializes in California Advice and Counsel representing employers at Jackson Lewis P.C. She has served on the AJGA Board of Directors since 2019. Her deep connection to the AJGA as both a past player and dedicated leader positions her to lead the organization into an exciting new phase.
“As someone who directly benefited from the opportunities the AJGA provides, I am very grateful to Digger for his vision, selfless dedication and contributions to the association. As I assume this position I look forward to expanding our impact, promoting diversity and ensuring that junior golfers from all backgrounds can thrive.”
Before his time on the AJGA Board of Directors, Smith was the parent of a junior golfer and saw the incredible need for an organization to service junior golf in the United States. His many accomplishments include legitimizing the AJGA by establishing a National Headquarters and hiring AJGA Executive Director Stephen Hamblin. Through his leadership, the AJGA grew from a fledgling organization with a couple of tournaments to the standard for junior golf around the world. Smith was also a pivotal figure in fostering relationships with corporate partners, growing the AJGA’s foundation impact and advocating for accessibility in junior golf. His leadership also ushered in new diversity and inclusion programs, ensuring that the AJGA reflects the values of equity and opportunity.
For more information, please contact Tim Jackman (tjackman@ajga.org ) in the AJGA Communications Department.