Senior Spotlight Featuring Jada Richardson

WASHINGTON (July 2, 2025) – Howard University Department of Athletics continued its senior spotlight series with golfer Jada Richardson (Suwanee, Ga.), who was interviewed by rising sophomore legal communications major Tanbrance Berry.
 
Q: Why did you start playing golf?
A: My parents signed me up for a summer camp when I was little at a course near our house. I was not the biggest fan of the game because it was slow pace. But, when I got to middle school, my parents really encouraged me to pick the sport back up and I thought it would be fun. I started playing a lot more in middle school and enjoyed the challenge of the game and having something that allowed me to set goals.
 
Q: How would you describe your Howard experience in one word?
A: Transformative
 
Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced as a student-athlete and how did you overcome?
A: At first, the biggest challenge I faced as a student-athlete was time management. At Howard, there are so many people to meet and new things to learn, which can make you feel like you are being pulled in a few different directions. When I first arrived, it was definitely difficult navigating, but once I figured it out, balancing everything was tremendously easier.
 
Q: How have your teammates contributed to your development as a golfer?
A: My teammates are truly what made my college experience because they challenged me to be a better golfer while encouraging me to always work hard, providing me great advice and supporting me during tournaments.
 
Q: As someone who joined the program in its early years, how has the program grown?
A: The program is so incredibly different now than when I started. It has been incredible watching Coach Sam Puryear (Howard Director of Golf) build the program into what it is today. In the beginning, everyone was trying to figure out exactly what was going on from a logistical standpoint and how we could all get better. Over the years, Coach Puryear did an amazing job recruiting players and pushing the team to perform better every year.
 
Q: How has Howard prepared you for your future endeavors?
A: Howard has made me a well-rounded person. One of the many things I am grateful for is the ability to explore a variety of things while at Howard. I was given the chance to be a student-athlete, figuring out my passion about off the course while growing my game on the course. The entire staff has been instrumental in helping me, the impact I want to make on the world and supporting my goals.
 
Q: What advice would you give the athletes who come behind you?
A: My biggest advice would be to enjoy the moment. Some days feel long, but they go by extremely quickly. Being on a Division I sports team is a unique experience that should push and challenge you as both an athlete and a person.
 
About Richardson

• Personal:
  
  • Hometown: Suwanee, Ga.
  • Major: International Business

• Academic Achievements at Howard:
  • NEC (Northeast Conference) Academic Honor Roll
  • NEC Commissioner’s Honor Roll

 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.