Ponte Vedra Beach, FL — The PGA TOUR Wives Association is honored to announce Jenna Hughes, wife of PGA TOUR professional Mackenzie Hughes, as the 2026 recipient of the Barbara Nicklaus Award. Each year, the PGA TOUR Wives Association presents the Barbara Nicklaus Award to a highly effective member of the Association whose leadership, dedication and philanthropic impact exemplify the values on which the organization was founded.
The Barbara Nicklaus Award is presented to a member who exemplifies Barbara Nicklaus’ devotion to her significant other, her friends and her philanthropic endeavors. The recipient is someone who has gone above and beyond to strengthen the PGA TOUR Wives Association—bringing forward new ideas, assisting in the execution of projects and events, and helping to expand the organization’s reach and impact within the communities it serves.
Hughes embodies these qualities wholeheartedly.
Hughes joined the PGA TOUR Wives Association Board of Directors in 2021 and immediately stepped into leadership as Vice President of Partnerships & Special Events, a role she held from 2021 to 2024. During her tenure, she planned and executed innovative member events designed to both raise funds and deepen member engagement.
One of her most meaningful contributions was the creation of Mia’s Miracles Beachside Brunch, an event honoring Mia Villegas and raised funds for Mia’s Miracles Foundation, created by PGA TOUR professional Camilo Villegas and his wife, Maria. Hughes also worked closely with PGA TOUR events to develop unique experiences for members, strengthening tournament relationships through events such as the Napa Wine Luncheon, curated shopping outings and additional special engagements.
Hughes was instrumental in the planning and execution of the Association’s 35th Anniversary Gala, contributing across all aspects of the event—from securing sponsors and increasing attendance to assisting with décor, menu planning and overall logistics.
In 2025, Hughes transitioned into the role of Vice President of Fundraising, where her leadership continued to elevate the Association’s impact. Through the execution of a silent auction, the Erin McDermott necklace fundraiser and a custom scarf initiative, Hughes helped increase funds raised in support of the Association’s charitable mission.
As the recipient of the Barbara Nicklaus Award, Hughes has proven not only to be a devoted supporter of her significant other, but also a guiding force in improving the PGA TOUR Wives Association and supporting the communities it visits. Her passion, creativity and commitment reflect the very essence of Barbara Nicklaus’ legacy.
The PGA TOUR Wives Association is proud to honor Hughes for her outstanding service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to making a meaningful difference.
The Barbara Nicklaus Award is named in honor of Barbara Nicklaus, wife of Jack Nicklaus, who was instrumental in the creation of the PGA TOUR Wives Association in 1988. The Association’s roots began with the first TOUR Wives golf tournament at THE PLAYERS Championship in 1987, where husbands served as caddies. The success of that event in raising charitable funds inspired a group of dedicated wives to formally unite for charitable work—thus establishing the PGA TOUR Wives Association. For more than three decades, the organization has given back to the golf community and child-related charities through volunteerism, fundraising and service.
As Barbara Nicklaus once stated, “We always want to be successful, and I don’t mean as in only wealth and power, but in finding meaning in our lives, testing our capabilities and hopefully making the world a better place for having passed through it.” That philosophy continues to guide the mission of the Association today.
Barbara Nicklaus, the mother of five children, is widely regarded as one of the most respected wives on the PGA TOUR and has been a tireless and prolific fundraiser for numerous charitable organizations. Throughout the Association’s history, she has served as a mentor, friend and inspiration to its members and beyond. While being a guiding force behind her husband, Barbara has also blazed her own trail through steadfast devotion to her family, community and philanthropic efforts, leaving a wide-ranging and lasting impact.
Previous Recipients:
2024 – Kourtney Schenk
2023 – Francie Kaufman & Amanda Hadley
2022 – Tawny Putnam
2021 – N/A
2020 – N/A
2019 – Erin Gainey
2018 – Lisa Cink
2017 – Katherine Swafford
2016 – Meagan Laird
2015 – Kate Rose
2014 - Sarah McGirt
2013 – Kelly Bettencourt & DeAnna Pettersson
2012 – Tabitha Furyk
2011 – Angie Oberholser
2010 – Stacy Hoffman
2009 – Kristy McLachlin
2008 – Amy Wilson
2007 – Julie Patrovic
2006 – Daine Owen
2005 – Jennifer Day
2004 – Ann Herron
2003 – Selina Nobilo
2002 – Sara Moores
2001 – Cathi Triplett
CONTACT: Melissa Taylor, PGA TOUR, melissataylor@pgatourhq.com