January 13, 2025 | Laura Ann Hopkinson
Lafayette, LA– The Louisiana Golf Association is thrilled to announce Laura Ann Hopkinson, our 2025 P.J. Boatwright Marketing and Communications intern from Denham Springs, Louisiana. Laura Ann combines her dynamic expertise with an enthusiastic passion as she embarks on an exciting journey into the world of golf, aiming to promote the values and traditions of the sport while furthering her career aspirations in marketing and communications.
“We are excited to welcome Laura Ann to the LGA team this year,” said LGA Executive Director Logan Ray. “She is driven and has a proven track record with marketing and communications. Her energetic spirit and passion will help us showcase and advance Louisiana golf. We are confident she will enhance the USGA Boatwright internship program and continue its exceptional legacy.”
Maili Bartz, Director of Marketing and Communications for the LGA, shared her excitement: “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Laura Ann this year. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to learn are inspiring, and I know she will bring fresh ideas and energy to our team. I’m excited to see her contributions elevate our efforts to promote amateur golf and connect with our members in meaningful ways.”
Laura Ann studied Strategic Communication at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, LA, where she also gained minors in Marketing and Psychology. Her studies provided her with a strong foundation in understanding consumer behavior, crafting impactful messaging, and developing strategic marketing plans, which she is expanding through her current pursuit of a business degree at South Louisiana Community College in Lafayette. Her diverse academic background reflects her dedication to personal and professional growth, which she is eager to bring to her role with the LGA.
Laura Ann began her professional journey at Stuller, a leading fine jewelry manufacturer, as the Merchandising Intern, where she quickly demonstrated her talent for product management and strategic thinking. Following the success of her internship, she was brought on full-time as an Assistant Product Manager. In this role, she collaborated with cross-functional teams to oversee product development, analyze market trends, manage inventory, and implement data-driven strategies to enhance product performance. Her experience at Stuller equipped her with a strong foundation in marketing, analytics, and product development—skills she is eager to leverage in promoting amateur golf and connecting with the LGA’s audience.
While Laura Ann has a background in cheerleading, track and basketball, her growing interest in golf has been influenced by her husband, Andrew, whose passion for the game has inspired her to appreciate the sport’s challenges and traditions. She sees golf as more than a sport, but as a tradition that fosters camaraderie, discipline, and respect—values she is committed to embodying through her work with the LGA. Joining the LGA, she sees a chance to expand her knowledge and skill set while exploring the unique challenges of the golfing industry.
In her own words, Laura Ann shared her career aspirations: “I am passionate about building a career that brings me genuine fulfillment, allows me to make a positive difference, and helps me grow both personally and professionally. I take pride in my work and believe that learning and curiosity are essential for continuous growth. Through my internship with the Louisiana Golf Association, I am excited to expand my skills in marketing, communications, and analytics while supporting the promotion of amateur golf—a mission I am proud to support.”
Throughout her journey as an LGA intern, Laura Ann is eager to gain hands-on experience in marketing and communications while immersing herself in the unique world of golf. She is excited to learn about the sport’s rich history, values, and traditions, appreciating how they foster a sense of camaraderie, respect, and discipline both on and off the course. Laura Ann is dedicated to embodying these principles in her work, using her role to contribute to the growth and promotion of amateur golf with integrity and enthusiasm.
Outside of her professional life, Laura Ann enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Andrew, and their English Springer Spaniel, Otis. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, creating lasting memories with her sisters, and immersing herself in creative pursuits such as writing, crafting, and photography.
While her golfing experience may be limited, Laura Ann approaches the game with an open mind and a willingness to learn, viewing each swing as a fresh start and every round as a new journey filled with opportunities to grow and adapt.
About the LGA
The Louisiana Golf Association (LGA) is a mission-driven organization dedicated to unifying the golf community across Louisiana. Since its inception in 1920, the LGA has expanded its scope to offer a variety of championships, including the Junior Amateur Championship and the Louisiana Junior Golf Tour. The LGA is committed to providing exceptional services in Championship Administration, USGA Handicap System oversight, and Rules of Golf authority, ensuring fair play and integrity throughout the state.
The LGA supports golfers of all levels through its Course Measuring and Rating services, comprehensive tournament management, and educational seminars on the Rules of Golf and Amateur Status. By partnering with entities like the Audubon Golf Trail and Gulf States PGA, the LGA fosters growth and inclusivity in the sport.
As the authoritative body for amateur golf in Louisiana, the LGA maintains the WHS Handicap Index, crucial for assessing individual performance, and continues to uphold the game’s traditions and values. For more information, visit LGA.org or contact us at 337-265-3938.
For Media Inquiries:
Maili Bartz
Director of Marketing and Communications
maili@lgagolf.org