Alexandria, VA – The Club Foundation announces the Sharon and Jay DiPietro Scholarship. The fund was initiated in 2025 through an endowed gift from Sharon DiPietro to honor a life and legacy defined by service, generosity, and shared purpose. Created in memory of her late husband, Jay DiPietro, CCM, the fund reflects the values Jay and Sharon lived and continue to live every day—a deep commitment to the club industry, to the Club Management Association of America (CMAA), and to lifting others through education and opportunity.
Jay dedicated his life and career to the club industry, leaving an indelible mark through his leadership, integrity, and generosity of spirit. A long-time CMAA member and former National Board member, he earned his Certified Club Manager (CCM) in 1989, was elected to the CMAA Board of Directors in 1990, joined the CMAA Honor Society in 2009, and was named to the inaugural class of CMAA Fellows in 2019. From 2005 to 2014, Jay served as Chair of The Club Foundation, where his passion and leadership helped raise critical funds to support the professional development of current and future club leaders. He also founded and chaired the CMAA Florida Chapter Seminole Region Charity Golf Tournament and Gala, raising more than $6.7 million for children’s and community-focused charities.
Sharon DiPietro is equally admired for her heart-led service and lifelong dedication to giving back. A devoted volunteer and champion of many charitable causes, she has supported initiatives ranging from animal rescue and care to programs serving elderly community members, underprivileged families, and those in need of food and clothing. Her compassion and quiet leadership have touched countless lives.
Sharon and Jay met in Florida and built a life rooted in love, family, and service. United by generosity and commitment and while raising their nine children, they devoted time, energy, and resources to improving the lives of other children and families in need.
Through this scholarship fund, Sharon continues their shared legacy by supporting emerging professionals with funding for Business Management Institutes (BMI) required in the pursuit of the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation—ensuring that future leaders have the opportunity to grow, lead, and serve with the same passion and heart that define both Sharon and Jay.
The Club Foundation will award at least one scholarship annually. Awards are based on merit and demonstrated financial need, ensuring support is directed to the most qualified candidates. Scholarship funds will cover the registration fee for one of the BMIs required for eligibility for the CCM exam.
“I would like to thank Sharon for continuing Jay’s legacy through the establishment of this scholarship,” shares Jeff Morgan, FASAE, CAE, President of The Club Foundation and CMAA. “This generous gift will benefit the education and professional development of club management professionals for years to come.”
As CMAA enters its next 100 years, The Club Foundation is building on its legacy and deepening its impact by championing the club professional’s journey and celebrating the contributions of club professionals across the country.
Learn more about the Sharon and Jay DiPietro Scholarship and eligibility requirements at clubfoundation.org/fund-dipietro.html.
About The Club Foundation
The Club Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, was established by CMAA in 1988. The Foundation seeks to fund the life cycle of a club manager’s career, providing financial support for five key areas: students, faculty, club managers, CMAA Chapters, and the club industry at large. It supports the advancement of club management professionals, funding industry education programs through scholarships and grants. Donations to The Club Foundation are essential to the continued success of the club industry and support club management professionals at every stage of their careers. Since 1988, The Club Foundation has awarded more than $8.5 million in scholarships and grants to provide individuals with professional development opportunities, education and research, and essential training. Learn more at clubfoundation.org.
About CMAA
Founded in 1927, the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) is the largest professional association for managers of membership clubs with 8,700 members throughout the US and internationally. Our members contribute to the success of more than 2,600 country, golf, athletic, city, faculty, military, town, and yacht clubs. The objectives of the Association are to promote relationships between club management professionals and other similar professions; to encourage the education and advancement of members; and to provide the resources needed for efficient and successful club operations. Under the covenants of professionalism, education, leadership, and community, CMAA continues to extend its reach as the leader in the club management practice. CMAA is headquartered in Alexandria, VA, with 38 professional chapters and 45 current and prospective student chapters. Learn more at cmaa.org.
Media Contact:
Melissa Low, CAE
goodnews@cmaa.org
