Mary Beth Nienhaus: How a Life-long Passion for Golf and “God Wink” Moments Benefit Our Community

How a Life-long Passion for Golf and “God Wink” Moments Benefit Our Community

Growing up across from a golf course in Appleton, Mary Beth’s love of the sport began at age six when she received her first set of golf clubs. With a strong work ethic and a love to practice, Mary Beth went on to become the first woman to play golf on the intercollegiate team at Marquette University. A few years after graduating from Marquette University, Mary Beth had what she calls a “God Wink” moment. While attending Illinois State University for her master’s degree, one of her thesis committee members was a member of the LPGA committee and helped Mary Beth fulfill her dream to become a professional golfer.

With the opportunity to return to her hometown to teach physical education at Appleton West High School, Mary Beth also secured a position as Golf Professional and Manager at the Winagamie Golf Course. After about a year of working closely with the four partners at the golf course, Mary Beth was invited to become a partner. Living only on her teaching salary, she invested her 45 years of golf course earnings, and today, uses these earnings to give back to our community.

“My parents certainly instilled in me strong work ethics and a desire to give back to my community. I am blessed with a wonderful life and grateful to God for everything He has given me. People have been so supportive of me and everything I have done throughout the years,” shared Mary Beth. “As a Christian it is important for me to share the gifts I have received. My Catholic faith has sustained me through the years. I truly want to be the hands and feet of Jesus.”

With a focus on athletics, fitness, youth, and education, Mary Beth supported these areas along with others such as Samaritan Counseling to help prevent suicide, to Habitat for Humanity, to basketball and volleyball courts at the Champion Center, and the Mary Beth Nienhaus Activity Center for older adults. Her gifts benefit people of all ages and support healthy, active lifestyles.

Mary Beth credits her good friends, John Bergstrom, Kathi Seifert, and Cathie Tierney as her philanthropic mentors. “Many people have influenced me over the years, in particular John, Kathi, and Cathie. Through their leadership, passion, dedication, and perseverance, they have influenced our community in so many positive ways,” said Mary Beth. “They have set high standards for all of us to follow. I am hoping to follow in their footsteps!”

Much of the giving she does now is through matching gifts as they allow people to give what they are able, feel good about being part of something bigger, and become part of that organization. “I hope with my support of community initiatives, I can influence others to give as well. I tell all my friends to give now if you can while you are alive. It is fun to see your gifts in action,” said Mary Beth. “The Community Foundation can help you as they are caring and do many wonderful things for the community. Curt Detjen and his staff are so supportive of my many projects and are so knowledgeable of community needs.”

Giving Matters

This story is featured in our Winter 2026 quarterly giving newsletter, Giving Matters. See more stories of impact and join our mailing list here: Giving Matters Quarterly Newsletter – Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region