Charlotte, NC - Johnson & Wales Charlotte is happy to announce the addition of Ken Dixon as head coach for men's and women's golf.

Dixon comes to Charlotte following a successful tenure at Mars Hill University, where he helmed the Lions golf teams for the last two years. Under Dixon's guidance, the Lions women's team won three tournaments, most recently the Fincastle Intercollegiate in September, 2024. The Lions women also posted top three finishes last season at the Emory & Henry Buzz Off Invitational and the Lindsey Wilson College Fall Invite. The Mars Hill men finished in the top 10 in four of their six starts in 2024-25, including a 5th place showing at the East Tennessee Collegiate Stroke Play.

"I am elated to begin my journey as the Head Golf Coach at JWU Charlotte," remarked Dixon on his new position. "I would like to thank Director Lacey, President Mathieu, and the hiring committee for their thorough consideration in hiring me to coach the men's and women's golf programs on behalf of the students. I look forward to providing a great experience to our student athletes! Go Wildcats!"

Dixon is a PGA Associate and the owner of Practical Approach Golf Instruction and Entertainment here in Charlotte. He also works as a golf instructor at the Mecklenburg County Golf Academy. Dixon was an Golf Professional Apprentice and Instructor at Ballantyne Country Club from June, 2018 through May, 2022, where he managed all aspects of golf operations including facilities, tournament organization and administration, and instruction. 

He coached the Ballantyne Country Club PGA Junior League teams to three straight league championships from 2020-2022. He also led the Community House Middle School golf team to an undefeated conference championship season in 2022. 

Johnson & Wales Charlotte athletic director Trudi Lacey is ecstatic about his addition to the JWU family. "I am thrilled to have Coach Dixon lead our men's and women's golf programs.  His experience and expertise will be an added value for our student-athletes and our athletic department."  We look forward to much success with his leadership."

Dixon graduated from Mars Hill University with a Bachelor's of Arts in History in 2016. He went on to earn a Master's of Arts in History at UNC-Charlotte, graduating in 2019. He is a published author, penning "From Tee to Green: Municipal Planning, Golf, and Mountain Progress."