Jill Blackwood was a champion for golf – specifically, women’s golf – at the local, state and national level. For over 30 years, Blackwood volunteered her time to the Iowa Women’s Golf Association and the Iowa Golf Association. She was involved for over 30 years with the junior golf program at Burlington Golf Club, spending several years as the chairperson.  She also coached the high school girls golf team from 1977 to 1982, winning the state championship in 1980.

Joe Butler, who is the PGA Professional at Burlington Golf Club, said in his letter of support that, “Jill has been active in every facet of golf.  Her organizational skills, passion for golf and determination to teach others while handling herself with class and without thought of herself makes her deserving of this award. Her contributions to golf in Iowa are impactful and she is a tremendous role model to all she comes in contact with.”

Jock Olson, PGA Master Professional and Iowa Golf Hall of Fame member, added, “I can honestly say that I have never seen a person more driven to advance and promote the game of golf than Jill.”

• 18-time winner of the Burlington Golf Club Women’s Club Championship. She also won events at the state level and participated in four USGA Women’s championships.
• She was the IWGA district chair in 1985 and started serving on the IWGA Board of Directors in 1991. She served as the association’s President from 2002-2005.
• Volunteer director of the annual Wife-Husband Tournament for 13 years.
• Volunteer director for the Iowa Women’s Amateur for eight years.
• Volunteer Director for the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur for four years.
• She served on the Ann Griffel Scholarship Selection Committee for ten years.
• In 2014, the IGA honored her with the George Turner Distinguished Service Award, which is given to individuals who have contributed back to the game through volunteer efforts during their lifetimes.