About Jared Barnes, PGA
In 2024, I had the privilege of running for Secretary of the PGA of America—an experience that stands as a highlight of my professional career. What meant the most during the journey were the conversations that I had with all of you. Listening to PGA Professionals across all 41 Sections gave me an even deeper appreciation for the strength of our Association and the people who make it what it is.
I am honored to run again for Secretary in 2026.
For those who got to know me two years ago, I am the same Jared with the same foundation—only stronger. Stronger because of the relationships built, and stronger because I now have a deeper understanding of the needs of our 41 Sections.
You may remember me saying during the last election:
“How can we govern for our entire Association if we don’t understand our 41 Sections?”
That belief still guides me today.
I promise to be a leader who listens first—not to respond, but to understand.
A Member-First Approach
My mission is simple and clear:
Every decision we make in the boardroom must be centered on the PGA Member.
• Does it make their job better?
• Does it strengthen their career?
• Does it improve their quality of life?
• To make the best decisions, we must stay connected.
That means listening to our Sections, engaging with our Members, and fully understanding how national decisions impact daily operations at the facility level.
Strong communication and transparency are essential to building trust and driving meaningful progress.
Protecting What Drives Our Future
We must continue to protect and elevate the two greatest assets of our Association—the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup.
These global events showcase our game at the highest level while giving us a powerful platform to tell the story of the PGA Professional. The revenue they generate directly supports our Members and strengthens the long-term future of our Association.
Equally important is our responsibility to remain financially disciplined. During my time serving on the National Budget Committee, I was proud to be part of decisions and policies that protect our Association while allowing us to continue advancing our mission.
As Secretary, I will remain committed to responsible financial stewardship and long-term sustainability.
Investing in Our People
We are the PGA of America—more than 30,000 strong—serving over 30 million golfers across the country.
We are operators, coaches, players, owners, and leaders in our communities. Golfers come to us for both recreation and passion, and there has never been a better time to tell our story and strengthen our brand.
With record growth in our Associate Program, we have a responsibility to invest in the next generation of PGA Professionals.
We must ensure this profession offers:
• Meaningful and fulfilling careers
• Competitive compensation
• Work-life balance
• Clear pathways for advancement
• Opportunities to continue playing the game
• By strengthening career services and supporting our future Members, we can ensure the long-term health of our profession.
My Perspective
I am proud to serve as the Head Golf Professional at Cedar Ridge Golf Course in Cedar City, Utah, where I work every day as an operator, owner, coach, player, and mentor.
I understand what it means to:
• Manage a facility
• Develop a team
• Grow the game at the local level
• Balance the many demands of this profession
• That daily experience shapes how I lead and how I approach every decision.
I don’t just represent PGA Members--I am one, every single day.
Looking Ahead
This is a defining time for our Association.
The game is evolving. The role of the PGA Professional is expanding. The expectations of our Members are changing.
We need leadership that understands both the national perspective and the day-to-day realities of our profession.
I look forward to reconnecting with many of you in the months ahead—and meeting those I have not yet had the opportunity to know.
I am excited for the conversations, the ideas, and the opportunity to work together as we move our Association Forward Together.
In 2024, I had the privilege of running for Secretary of the PGA of America—an experience that stands as a highlight of my professional career. What meant the most during the journey were the conversations that I had with all of you. Listening to PGA Professionals across all 41 Sections gave me an even deeper appreciation for the strength of our Association and the people who make it what it is.
I am honored to run again for Secretary in 2026.
For those who got to know me two years ago, I am the same Jared with the same foundation—only stronger. Stronger because of the relationships built, and stronger because I now have a deeper understanding of the needs of our 41 Sections.
You may remember me saying during the last election:
“How can we govern for our entire Association if we don’t understand our 41 Sections?”
That belief still guides me today.
I promise to be a leader who listens first—not to respond, but to understand.
A Member-First Approach
My mission is simple and clear:
Every decision we make in the boardroom must be centered on the PGA Member.
• Does it make their job better?
• Does it strengthen their career?
• Does it improve their quality of life?
• To make the best decisions, we must stay connected.
That means listening to our Sections, engaging with our Members, and fully understanding how national decisions impact daily operations at the facility level.
Strong communication and transparency are essential to building trust and driving meaningful progress.
Protecting What Drives Our Future
We must continue to protect and elevate the two greatest assets of our Association—the PGA Championship and the Ryder Cup.
These global events showcase our game at the highest level while giving us a powerful platform to tell the story of the PGA Professional. The revenue they generate directly supports our Members and strengthens the long-term future of our Association.
Equally important is our responsibility to remain financially disciplined. During my time serving on the National Budget Committee, I was proud to be part of decisions and policies that protect our Association while allowing us to continue advancing our mission.
As Secretary, I will remain committed to responsible financial stewardship and long-term sustainability.
Investing in Our People
We are the PGA of America—more than 30,000 strong—serving over 30 million golfers across the country.
We are operators, coaches, players, owners, and leaders in our communities. Golfers come to us for both recreation and passion, and there has never been a better time to tell our story and strengthen our brand.
With record growth in our Associate Program, we have a responsibility to invest in the next generation of PGA Professionals.
We must ensure this profession offers:
• Meaningful and fulfilling careers
• Competitive compensation
• Work-life balance
• Clear pathways for advancement
• Opportunities to continue playing the game
• By strengthening career services and supporting our future Members, we can ensure the long-term health of our profession.
My Perspective
I am proud to serve as the Head Golf Professional at Cedar Ridge Golf Course in Cedar City, Utah, where I work every day as an operator, owner, coach, player, and mentor.
I understand what it means to:
• Manage a facility
• Develop a team
• Grow the game at the local level
• Balance the many demands of this profession
• That daily experience shapes how I lead and how I approach every decision.
I don’t just represent PGA Members--I am one, every single day.
Looking Ahead
This is a defining time for our Association.
The game is evolving. The role of the PGA Professional is expanding. The expectations of our Members are changing.
We need leadership that understands both the national perspective and the day-to-day realities of our profession.
I look forward to reconnecting with many of you in the months ahead—and meeting those I have not yet had the opportunity to know.
I am excited for the conversations, the ideas, and the opportunity to work together as we move our Association Forward Together.
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I had the privilege of serving alongside Jared on the National PGA Board as a fellow classmate, and I witnessed firsthand his growth as both a leader and a strong advocate for PGA members in the boardroom. He was consistently selected to serve on our most critical committees, and when difficult decisions needed to be made or key staff positions filled, Jared was always a trusted and valued part of the process. He has been—and will continue to be—an outstanding leader for our Association and I’m proud to support him in his candidacy for National Secretary of the PGA.
Greg Neujahr PGA Director of Golf at Champions Run, Omaha, NE/National PGA Director for District 8 2020-2023 |
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Over 20 years ago, I walked into Jared Barnes' golf shop to inquire about a merchandiser position. Unfortunately, he had just filled the position, but he could see my desire to work in the golf industry. He made a phone call, and I had an interview that same afternoon at the Utah Section PGA. Twenty-three years later, I am now the Assistant Executive Director of the Utah Section, all thanks to Jared seeing my potential and making a phone call he really didn't have to make.
During my time at the Utah Section, I have had the chance to work with Jared as he’s worked his way through each officer chair and the District 9 director. He has shown his ability to lead and focus on being a unifier who is calm and transparent under pressure. As the PGA of America looks toward its future, the need for a leader who embodies the values of service, transparency, and grassroots dedication has never been more critical. Jared Barnes, PGA, represents exactly this brand of leadership. Annie Fisher Assistant Executive Director, Utah PGA Section |