Washington State Golf Association donates $26,000 to support GCSAA’s First Green
First Green is an innovative STEM education program from GCSAA
The Washington State Golf Association (WSGA) has donated $26,000 to the Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG), the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), to support First Green, which provides hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education at golf courses.
Prior to GCSAA assuming leadership of First Green in 2018, the WSGA had been a long-time supporter of the program, which had its origins in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1997, First Green is the only STEM education and environmental outreach program that uses golf courses as learning labs. Each field trip averages 75 students who learn about golf and the environment. For most students, these “outdoor classrooms” represent their first exposure to a golf course.
With this donation, WSGA joins the EIFG’s Platinum Tee Club, which recognizes organizations that donate $5,000 or more. They are also in the Executive Club level of the EIFG’s Cumulative Giving Program for donors who have contributed $25,000 – $49,999 since 1987.
WSGA’s Executive Director Troy Andrew also serves as executive director of the Pacific Northwest Golf Association. In 2018, that organization expanded its Patrons of Golf donation program to allow for designated donations to First Green.
“We have very ambitious goals for First Green as we expand its reach across the country, and WSGA’s support will help those come to fruition,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “Their gift helps us show the important role golf courses play in communities, the important role superintendents play, and introduces many students to golf for the first time.”
For more information about GCSAA’s First Green, visit www.thefirstgreen.org.
About GCSAA and the EIFG
The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) is a leading golf organization in the United States. Its focus is on golf course management, and since 1926 GCSAA has been the top professional association for the men and women who manage golf courses in the U.S. and worldwide. From its headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., the association provides education, information and representation to more than 18,000 members in more than 78 countries. The association’s mission is to serve its members, advance their profession and enhance the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf. Visit GCSAA at www.gcsaa.org, or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Visit our industry-leading magazine at GCMonline.com.
The Environmental Institute for Golf is the philanthropic organization of the GCSAA. Its mission is to foster sustainability through research, awareness, education, programs and scholarships for the benefit of golf course management professionals, golf facilities and the game. Visit EIFG at www.eifg.org, or find us on Facebook or Twitter.
Contact:
Angela Hartmann, Associate Director, Communications
Phone: 800-472-7878, ext. 3647 or 785-393-1361 (cell)
ahartmann@gcsaa.org
