The Arkansas State Golf Association is proud to announce and introduce the Class of 2025, four extraordinary individuals whose remarkable achievements—spanning competitive excellence, professional leadership, and groundbreaking contributions—have earned them a rightful place in the Arkansas Golf Hall of Fame.

Risë Alexander

Risë Alexander is a distinguished figure in the Arkansas State Golf Association (ASGA), with a remarkable history as a player and coach in the game of golf. Born in Laurel, Mississippi, and raised in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Alexander began playing golf at the age of eight. She launched her career through the ASGA junior program, securing multiple junior championships in both Arkansas and Oregon, as well as high school championships in both states.

Alexander continued her athletic journey at Oregon State University, where she excelled as a collegiate golfer and also played basketball. After college, she pursued a professional golf career until 1981 and later served as a volunteer coach at her alma mater. Her dedication led to her appointment as head women’s golf coach at Oregon State University, where she guided the Beavers to 11 NCAA Regional appearances and a 16th-place finish at the NCAA Finals in 1998.

Following her tenure at Oregon State, Alexander's coaching career took her across the country. She served as head women’s golf coach at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and held assistant coaching positions at N.C. State, S.M.U., and the University of Central Arkansas. Her contributions to the sport earned her several accolades, and she is a past president of the National Women’s Golf Coaches Association.

Most recently, Alexander showcased her enduring talent by qualifying for the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur, which she competed in at Broadmoor Golf Club in Seattle, Washington.

Deane Pappas, P.G.A.

Though Deane Pappas is not a native of Arkansas, he has fully embraced the state as his own, leaving a lasting legacy through his collegiate, professional, and teaching careers. Born in Phalaborwa, South Africa, Pappas grew up on a golf course, fostering an early love for the game. He fondly recalls the unique experience of spotting exotic animals roaming the course near his home.

Pappas’ talent on the course earned him a scholarship to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville in the early 1990s. During the 1991-92 season, he garnered SEC All-Conference honors, and in 1992, he was named a First Team All-American and SEC Player of the Year. His achievements earned him induction into the University of Arkansas Hall of Honor in 2002.

After his collegiate success, Pappas turned professional, competing on prominent tours, including the Sunshine Tour in South Africa, the Korn Ferry Tour, and the PGA and PGA Champions Tours. Over his professional career, he amassed eight victories and numerous top-10 finishes.

Following his time as a touring professional, Pappas transitioned into coaching and teaching. He founded and operated the Deane Pappas Golf Academy in Fayetteville and later served as the director of golf at RidgePointe Country Club from 2013 to March 2024. Currently, he holds the position of director of golf at Cooper’s Hawk Golf Club.

Darrell Shelton, P.G.A.

Darrell Shelton has been a cornerstone of the Arkansas golf community for over 30 years. Originally from Tennessee, Shelton played collegiate golf at Lipscomb University, setting the foundation for a lifelong passion for the game. He became a PGA member in 1987 but began his career as an assistant at Temple Hills Country Club in 1983. Shelton was promoted to head golf professional at Temple Hills in 1984 and 1985 before moving on to Belle Meade Country Club, where he worked from 1986 to 1994.

In May of 1994, Shelton relocated to Little Rock, Arkansas, to become the head golf professional at the Country Club of Little Rock, a position he has held for over three decades. Shelton’s long-standing tenure with the Country Club of Little Rock exemplifies his loyalty and commitment to the local golf community.

Throughout his career, Shelton has earned numerous accolades. He was named the South Central Arkansas PGA Chapter Private Merchandiser of the Year in 2003, 2012, 2017, 2020 and 2023. Additionally, he received the PGA Section Private Merchandiser of the Year award in 2004 and 2012 and was honored with the PGA Chapter Horton Smith Award in 2012. His expertise extends beyond club operations, as he has hosted over 25 U.S. amateur championship event qualifiers for juniors, men, and women.

As the director of golf and head professional at the Country Club of Little Rock, Shelton has been instrumental in organizing several prestigious tournaments, including multiple U.S. Junior Qualifiers and U.S. Senior Championships. His dedication to the game of golf and his contributions to the Arkansas golf community have left an enduring legacy.

Shelton’s remarkable career reflects his exceptional commitment to the sport and his unwavering support for golfers in Little Rock and throughout the state of Arkansas. He continues to serve as the director of golf at the Country Club of Little Rock, fostering the growth of the game and inspiring the next generation of players.

Glen Talbert

Glen Talbert is one of the most accomplished amateur golfers in the history of the Arkansas State Golf Association (ASGA). A familiar presence at Hurricane Golf Club and Sheridan Country Club, Talbert could often be found enjoying the game he loved. Born in Carthage, Arkansas, he eventually made Sheridan his home.

Talbert was a true scientist of the game, constantly tinkering with his clubs and experimenting with new putters. His hard-nosed, determined demeanor contributed to his impressive amateur golf resume. As one of the ASGA’s most decorated golfers, he amassed an incredible list of championships. Notably, he qualified for and competed in the 1984 U.S. Amateur and was named the ASGA Super-Senior Player of the Year in 2011. Among his many achievements, Talbert claimed the ASGA Super-Senior Match Play Championship three consecutive times in 2016, 2017, and 2018. He also excelled in all variations of the game, winning the Jack Williams Four-Ball nearly two dozen times. Perhaps most impressively, at 65 years old, he showcased his enduring talent by winning the ASGA Mid-Amateur Match Play Championship in 2010.

Beyond his numerous tournament victories, Talbert’s competitive spirit and deep love for the game left a lasting impression on those around him. His impact on golf in Arkansas is profound and will be remembered for generations to come.

The Arkansas Golf Hall of Fame c/o 2025

The Arkansas State Golf Association is proud to induct the extraordinary Class of 2025 into the Arkansas Golf Hall of Fame. This year’s honorees represent a rich tapestry of talent, dedication, and impact on the game of golf in Arkansas. Risë Alexander’s remarkable journey from junior golf champion to a trailblazing collegiate coach has left an indelible mark on the sport. Deane Pappas, with his storied collegiate and professional career, has brought international recognition to Arkansas golf while continuing to shape the next generation as a teacher and director of golf. Darrell Shelton’s steadfast commitment as a PGA professional and his decades of leadership at one of the founding clubs of our organization (CCLR) has elevated golf in our state through his service and expertise. Finally, Glen Talbert’s illustrious amateur career, defined by his championship wins and love for the game, embodies the competitive spirit and passion that inspires us all. To honor all four 2025 inductees, the ASGA will be hosting its 2025 Hall of Fame & Awards Banquet in November, with the dates yet to be announced. The ASGA celebrates these exceptional individuals with the deepest respect and admiration, honoring their legacy as they take their rightful place in the Arkansas Golf Hall of Fame.