Category: Feature Stories

First Tee – San Antonio Participant to Host Blood Drive at Learning Center

Tim, a dedicated teen participant of First Tee – Greater San Antonio and the First Tee National Innovators Forum, is turning inspiration into action with a life-changing project. He is hosting a blood drive at the First Tee – Greater San Antonio in partnership with the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center.

The First Tee Innovators Forum equips teens to create meaningful service projects in areas such as education, health, human rights, and environmental sustainability. Selected participants, like Tim, gain access to interactive workshops, small group breakout sessions, and mentorship from industry leaders. Through this program, participants are empowered to develop projects that generate real change in their communities.

Tim’s journey to this blood drive began with a simple idea. He was originally planning a free little library for his community but was inspired by a former Innovators Forum participant who successfully organized a blood drive. Seeing the profound impact of saving lives motivated Tim to pursue the same path. Tim shared, “Knowing my efforts in putting this blood drive together can help save lives really helped inspire me in my choice of my project.”

The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, a nonprofit organization with more than 45 years of experience, plays a critical role in ensuring the region has a safe and adequate blood supply. Their work supports hospitals and front-line healthcare workers by helping save lives through blood, marrow, stem cell, cord blood, and tissue donations. By partnering with the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, Tim’s blood drive will directly contribute to this lifesaving mission.

Tim credits First Tee – Greater San Antonio for the guidance and support that made this project possible. He said, “I wouldn’t have a location if Ms. Carrie Kimbell hadn’t graciously let me host it at the First Tee. Coach Steve Lennon has been an amazing encourager, helping me with both minor and major details of the blood drive. The First Tee has helped me be more confident in myself and my skills. I wouldn’t be able to tackle this project without their support.”

The impact of this blood drive extends far beyond the event itself. By giving back to his community, Tim is helping save lives and demonstrating the power of leadership, empathy, and service, which are at the heart of the First Tee mission.

Reflecting on his experience with the Innovators Forum, Tim shared, “Meeting people from across the country from different First Tees was so fun. The Innovators Forum was my highlight of 2025, and I cannot wait to represent the First Tee of Greater San Antonio again.”

Community Invitation

The blood drive is open to everyone in the San Antonio community. Your donation can save lives and make a real difference. Join Tim at First Tee – Greater San Antonio:

  • Date: Friday, April 17th
  • Time: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Location: First Tee Learning Center, 915 E Mulberry Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

Sign up here: https://donor.southtexasblood.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/154158

Tim hopes to see 30 donors sign up, and your participation will help him reach this goal. Every donation counts and helps save lives in the San Antonio community. Come be part of this lifesaving effort and support Tim’s project.

This blood drive is not just an event. It is a chance for the San Antonio community to come together, make a difference, and help save lives. Tim’s project is a shining example of how one motivated teen, supported by a strong community and powerful mentorship, can create meaningful change.

Izzy Kornmeyer shares the transformative power of golf 

Izzy Kornmeyer didn’t know how to hold a golf club when she started at First Tee – Indiana in 8th grade. Now, as a high school senior and varsity golfer, she can’t stop thinking about the game that has completely changed her life. 

“Golf has changed me for the better, and I am forever grateful for it,” she said. 

Izzy’s golf journey started with Sunday mornings watching her dad and grandpa head out to play. When she decided to try high school golf, her mom signed her up for First Tee, hoping the program would give her daughter the foundation she needed. 

That first tournament was humbling. After top-slicing her opening drive, Izzy shot 110. But instead of giving up, she leaned into the challenge. Several summer tournaments and countless practice sessions later, she returned to that same course and shot 83, proving what dedication and perseverance could accomplish. 

Now Izzy is preparing to play collegiate golf at St. Thomas University in Miami, where she’ll be a first-generation college student. 

Finding her voice 

The transformation wasn’t just about golf scores. Izzy arrived at First Tee as a quiet, uncertain beginner who felt out of her element. Over four years, she evolved into a confident mentor and leader who now helps launch new First Tee – Indiana initiatives through the Leaders In Training Program. 

Her leadership extends far beyond the golf course. Izzy serves on First Tee – Indiana’s Participant Advisory Council and was chosen as a Youth Deacon at Second Presbyterian Church.  

Izzy’s approach to leadership is guided by her faith and the values she’s developed through First Tee. She lives by Matthew 20:26: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” 

“I now understand that true leadership isn’t about being in control,” Izzy said. “It’s about being present, expressing kindness and prioritizing other people before yourself.” 

Whether she’s volunteering in the church nursery, creating encouraging TikTok content or being the first to help others at First Tee – Indiana, Izzy leads with kindness and compassion. 

Making an impact 

When she’s not competing, Izzy is often watching professional golf, practicing and or giving back to others. In 2024, she attended the First Tee Innovators Forum in Phoenix. During the event, participants plan service projects they execute in their communities. Izzy ultimately collected 700 full-sized hygiene products and $500 for the Julian Center, Indiana’s largest organization supporting victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other crises. 

Her journey from a nervous beginner who couldn’t grip a club to a confident leader who helps others find their own path proves what First Tee has always known: With the right support, young people can achieve remarkable growth. 

For Izzy, that growth has been about more than improving her golf game. It’s been about discovering her voice and leading with kindness – one shot, one challenge and one act of service at a time. 

Support First Tee with The Wash Tub Fundraiser

The Wash Tub is proud to support the First Tee Invitational hosted by the Canyon Springs Senior Men’s Golf Association with a special fundraiser benefiting First Tee.

Supporters can purchase a $25 Wash Tub gift card for just $20, and $10 from every card sold will go directly to First Tee programs that help teach young people life skills and the game of golf.

In addition to supporting First Tee, buyers will receive a 20% discount that can be used toward a Wash Tub membership (save $80 on a membership renewal), car washes, detailing services, or merchandise.

To participate, complete the order form at the link below:
https://forms.1tub.co/workflow/ef3c1d66-98ba-44b2-83d2-5ccc889d9f03?autoSize=true&size=mobile

It’s a simple way to support First Tee while saving on your next visit to The Wash Tub.

APGA Tour Invests in First Tee – Greater San Antonio Participants Through Unforgettable Week of Programming

First Tee – Greater San Antonio recently welcomed the Advocates Professional Golf Association Tour for a powerful week centered around one thing: our kids.

From leading our speaker series to stepping directly into clinics on the range, APGA professionals became part of the experience. Their time, mentorship, and genuine engagement created moments our participants will carry with them well beyond this week.

Creating Access and Opportunity Through Golf

Founded in 2010, the APGA Tour is committed to creating greater access and opportunity in the game of golf. Established by Ken Bentley and Adrian Stills, the organization works to build professional pathways while also prioritizing youth engagement and representation in the sport.

That mission strongly aligns with what we believe at First Tee – Greater San Antonio. Golf is a vehicle for life skills, confidence, and long-term opportunity. When young people see what is possible and are supported along the way, their belief in themselves grows.

Fore Your Future Speaker Series Featuring Michael Bradham

As part of the Fore Your Future Speaker Series presented by Frost Bank, APGA professional Michael Bradham, a San Antonio native, spent the morning with our 14+ participants.

Bradham shared his journey through the game, from competing as a collegiate athlete at Prairie View A&M University to navigating the professional ranks, stepping away from the game to build a career and family, and returning with renewed focus and purpose. He spoke openly about resilience, discipline, and adaptability, values our participants actively develop through First Tee programming.

Following the discussion, Bradham joined participants on the range, providing instruction, answering questions, and connecting one-on-one. For many of our young golfers, learning directly from a professional who grew up in their own city made the experience even more meaningful. It reinforced that big dreams can start right here in San Antonio.

APGA Professionals Join Programming on the Range

In addition to the speaker event, six APGA Tour professionals participated directly in First Tee programming sessions. Rather than making a brief appearance, they integrated into clinics, offering hands-on instruction and personal encouragement to participants of varying skill levels.

The professionals who spent time with our participants included:

  • Kci Lindskog
  • John Baptiste Hakizimana
  • Jonathan Yoshihiro
  • Troy Taylor II
  • Gregory Odom Jr.
  • Olajuwon Ajanaku

For many participants, this was their first opportunity to learn alongside professional golfers. The experience provided not only technical instruction, but representation and visibility, showing young athletes that pathways in golf are attainable.

Meaningful Investment in the Next Generation

Beyond mentorship and instruction, the APGA Tour also provided an array of prizes for participants, including AirPods, televisions, golf equipment, backpacks, water bottles, and towels. The gesture reflected a genuine commitment to investing in the next generation both on and off the course.

Most importantly, the week reinforced a powerful message to our participants. They belong in this game, and there is space for them to grow within it.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio extends sincere appreciation to the APGA Tour, its leadership, staff, and professionals for their time and dedication to our youth.

We also thank Frost Bank for presenting the Fore Your Future Speaker Series and for their continued support of youth development in San Antonio.

To learn more about the APGA Tour and its mission to expand opportunity in golf, visit apgatour.org.

First Tee – Greater San Antonio Receives Transformational $100,000 Gift from Mr. Edward Whitacre, former Chairman & CEO of AT&T, to Expand Affordable Youth Programming

San Antonio, Texas — First Tee – Greater San Antonio (FTGSA) is honored to announce a generous $100,000 gift from Mr. Ed Whitacre, former Chairman and CEO of AT&T, in support of transformative and affordable youth programming across Greater San Antonio.

A longtime supporter of sports and community initiatives, Whitacre has a deep passion for San Antonio and is a frequent visitor of the First Tee Polo Field Driving Range. His investment reflects a shared commitment to creating opportunities for young people to develop confidence, character, and leadership skills through the game of golf.

This significant gift aligns directly with FTGSA’s mission to empower youth through sport and supports key priorities within the organization’s strategic plan. Funding will help subsidize participation costs, expand access to programming, and strengthen the delivery of life-skills curriculum led by trained coaches and mentors — ensuring that financial barriers never prevent youth from participating.

“Our goal is to provide transformative opportunities that are accessible and affordable for all families,” said Carrie Kimbell, CEO of First Tee – Greater San Antonio. “Mr. Whitacre’s generous investment strengthens our ability to deliver best-in-class youth programming while advancing the strategic growth necessary to serve more young people across our community. We are incredibly grateful for his belief in our mission and the future of the youth we serve.”

The gift supports FTGSA’s strategic focus on participant and coach engagement, operational sustainability, and expanding community impact — helping ensure long-term access to high-quality affordable programming that develops young people both on and off the golf course.

Each year, First Tee – Greater San Antonio reaches over 35,000 youth through life skills, school, and community programs designed to build life skills such as pursuing goals, collaborating with others, using good judgment, and growing through challenge.

A commitment to service: Military veterans share why they volunteer at First Tee 

For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life means finding new ways to serve their communities. At First Tee, coaches with military backgrounds bring unique perspectives shaped by years of discipline, leadership and dedication to something greater than themselves. 

This Veterans Day, we spoke with three First Tee coaches who served in different branches of the military about their experiences, why service matters to them and what keeps them coming back to the course to mentor young people. 

Coach Joshua Grantham, First Tee – Phoenix 

Coach Joshua served in the U.S. Marine Corps from January 2002 to October 2008, achieving the title of Reconnaissance Marine. He helped to counter IEDs and capture high-value Al-Qaeda leaders in Iraq. He credits three Bible verses for driving his passion for service: 

  • “For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But do not use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13 
  • “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34-35 
  • “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others.” Matthew 20:25 

Coach Joshua began his journey with First Tee as a parent. “Once I received some training on the First Tee Building Blocks and Coaching Philosophy, I was hooked,” he said. “I have implemented many of the strategies in my own parenting with great success.” 

His favorite moments on the golf course come when kids light up after hitting a great shot. “Ultimately, it is watching them shift their mindset from outcome to process, learning that they can accomplish anything,” he said. 
 
Coach Devin Shaw, First Tee – Florida Gold Coast 

Coach Devin served 12 years in the U.S. Army as a Unit Supply Specialist. He was responsible for ensuring soldiers had the equipment and resources needed to accomplish the mission. It was a role that required organization, accountability and a strong sense of service to others. 

“Service is about purpose, sacrifice and being part of something greater than yourself,” he said. “The Army had a clear mission, and serving my country gave me a deep sense of fulfillment. I took great pride in being a soldier and in contributing to something that mattered beyond my own life.” 

First Tee – Florida Gold Coast offers a golf program for veterans at Dyer Park, which was the original draw for Coach Devin. “The friendships and bonds I’ve formed through those programs have truly improved my quality of life. It gave me a sense of community again – something I really missed after leaving the military,” he said. 

 What keeps Coach Devin coming back to First Tee is getting to help new golfers experience the thrill of the perfect shot – and grow their confidence – one swing at a time. 

Coach Steve Napier, First Tee – Greater Washington DC 

Coach Steve spent 25 years as an Air Force intelligence officer, working at Air Force Special Operations Command and the Pentagon. The highlight of his career was being selected as Squadron Commander, leading over 210 personnel conducting various intelligence missions. 

Coach Steve originally wanted to fly but found out he was too tall. “I learned there was much more to being in the Air Force — the camaraderie, the focus on mission, and as I progressed, mentoring the new airmen and officers on their life and career,” he said. It was his passion for mentorship that inspired him to join First Tee as a coach.  

He was watching golf one day while stationed in Hawaii and saw a First Tee ad. “I didn’t know much about it, so I did some research and felt it was something I would like to be a part of, especially since I was getting close to retirement,” he said. He joined First Tee – Hawaii as a volunteer coach and later got involved with First Tee – Greater Washington DC. 

For Coach Steve, it means a lot when kids and parents keep returning to First Tee, and he’s seen participants grow over the years. “I love seeing their progress as kids and golfers, and a few are playing in some junior golfer tournaments,” he said. 

This Veterans Day, we’re grateful for coaches like Joshua, Devin, Steve and the hundreds of other veterans who volunteer at First Tee chapters across the country. Their continued service makes a lasting impact on the next generation. Learn more about volunteering at First Tee. 

From course to career: Coach Stuart demonstrates the transformative power of First Tee mentors 

Accenture, a global professional services company and First Tee Trustee, hosts a personal development session for staff members at its Atlanta office on the first Friday of each month. Stuart Furlow had no idea one of these workshops would lead to one of the most rewarding experiences of his professional life. While working as a manufacturing and operations consultant, Stuart was also looking for a way to give back, and First Tee – Metro Atlanta provided the perfect opportunity. 

Growing up, Stuart learned golf from his father, uncle and cousin. The game had been a part of his life, but he’d never considered becoming a coach. “It was perfect timing,” Stuart said about discovering First Tee. “I just finished a project and heard about the volunteer opportunity. I wanted to be a mentor. I wanted to teach the game of golf and learn about First Tee.” Little did Stuart know, he would create a meaningful relationship with a participant named Ethan, helping to shape his bright future ahead. 

A mentorship built on more than golf 

Ethan Herndon didn’t take up golf by choice. When his dad first brought him to First Tee – Metro Atlanta at 8 years old, he went “begrudgingly,” following in his older sister’s footsteps. But that day changed everything. While golf can be portrayed as a sport for older and wealthier people, “First Tee is the opposite of that – it’s for everybody,” he said. 

For the next decade, Ethan returned to John A. White Golf Course every Saturday. By the time Stuart joined First Tee as a coach three years ago, Ethan was a high school freshman starting to think seriously about his future. 

Stuart immediately noticed something special about Ethan. “His work ethic: He was always one of the first kids out there, starting before we even got the chance to begin our actual lesson,” Stuart said. “We started talking and learning more about each other. I learned what he was interested in, what his aspirations were, and I started to add a little bit of feedback and my own perspective.” 

For Ethan, Stuart became more than just a golf coach. “He had a lot of advice that was very beneficial to me: looking at majors, programs, scholarships, things I hadn’t heard from other people before,” Ethan said. “He gave me a different outlook.” 

What made Stuart’s mentorship particularly meaningful was his genuine concern for Ethan’s overall wellbeing. “While shooting low scores and hitting good shots are important, Coach Stuart always wanted to make sure we were doing good in school, mentally, physically, and that everything was going well,” Ethan said. “He was truly concerned about our wellbeing and how we were as people versus just golfers.” 

The power of partnership 

Stuart’s commitment to First Tee reflects Accenture’s broader values. “The partnership between Accenture and First Tee is something that Accenture takes great pride in,” Stuart said. “We continuously talk about making an impact in the communities we serve.” 

But for Stuart, the impact goes beyond corporate social responsibility; it’s personal. Stuart sees his role as helping participants like Ethan navigate life with the benefit of his own experience. 

Through the Hope Tee Shot and other programs, Accenture’s support of First Tee and its Metro Atlanta chapter extend beyond participants’ time in high school. “It doesn’t stop after you leave the program,” Stuart said. “We want to continue supporting current students and alumni through all the avenues of life.” 

Today, Ethan has spent 10 years with First Tee – Metro Atlanta, transforming from a reluctant golfer into a young man with clear goals and the confidence to pursue them. Stuart’s mentorship played a crucial role in that journey, not just teaching him about golf, but helping him understand the possibilities ahead. 

Their story demonstrates the true mission of First Tee: using golf as a vehicle to build character and teach life skills that extend far beyond the course. And for volunteers like Stuart, it’s proof that giving back can be one of the most rewarding experiences of all. 

Learn more about how you can support young people like Ethan. 

Margaret Kerr of First Tee – Greater Houston, Julio Rodas-Rhim of First Tee – Metropolitan New York win pro-junior titles at 2025 PURE Insurance Championship  

Kerr and Rodas-Rhim were paired with pros Steven Alker and David Bransdon respectively 

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2025) – After a week of exciting competition and personal growth, Margaret Kerr of Friendswood, Texas, and Julio Rodas-Rhim of New York City are the junior winners of the 2025 PURE Insurance Championship impacting First Tee, an official PGA TOUR Champions event, which concluded Sunday at Pebble Beach.  

Both Kerr and Rodas-Rhim sealed their victories Sunday with birdies on Pebble Beach’s iconic par-3 17th hole. Kerr and Alker finished 18-under to win by one stroke. Rodas-Rhim and Bransdon finished 16-under and won in a scorecard playoff. 

For more than 20 years, the PURE Insurance Championship has provided First Tee participants with the unique opportunity to showcase the skills and values they’ve gained through the program. Held at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course, the tournament pairs 80 standout teens from First Tee Chapters nationwide with PGA TOUR Champions players and amateurs from the business community. The annual event was broadcast internationally on Golf Channel. 

“This week, the 80 young representatives of First Tee demonstrated perseverance, personality and exceptional talent on the course,” said Greg McLaughlin, CEO of First Tee. “We extend our congratulations to Margaret and Julio on their outstanding victory. And we are sincerely grateful to PURE Insurance, Chevron, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, PGA TOUR Champions players, Golf Channel and all our generous partners for helping make this an unforgettable experience for our participants.” 

First Tee – Greater Houston’s Margaret Kerr is a 16-year-old junior at Clear Springs High School, who’s been playing golf for 10 years. She referees lacrosse games, fosters dogs and completed Ace, First Tee’s capstone program designed to help teens prepare for the future. 

“I don’t even think I can put it in words; life doesn’t feel real right now,” Kerr said. “I was so supported this week by not only my pro, but his caddie, his family – everybody.” 

First Tee – Metropolitan New York’s Rodas-Rhim is a 17-year-old senior at Fordham Preparatory School. In addition to earning a black belt in martial arts, he has been playing golf for 13 years. He was the New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association’s 2025 individual champion, and he plans to attend college somewhere warm so he can play golf all year. 

“I’m very grateful for this experience,” Rodas-Rhim said. “I really wanted to make my grandparents proud because they got me into golf in the first place, and them getting to see me on TV is probably a dream come true of mine.” 

During the week, First Tee partners PURE Insurance and Chevron celebrated their commitment to First Tee’s mission and raised additional funds to support the First Tee College Scholarship Program through special events. The program pairs select First Tee alumni with a mentor and provides professional development workshops and financial assistance throughout their college experience.  

This week, leaders from PURE Insurance surprised Malakai Jazayeri of First Tee – Phoenix and Ashton Washington of First Tee – Tampa Bay with invitations to become the newest members of the First Tee College Scholarship Program. 

First Tee is a youth development organization that teaches life skills and helps kids and teens build their strength of character through golf. The PURE Insurance Championship is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to encourage and motivate participants as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities.  

To access photos from the event, visit here. For more information on the tournament, visit PUREInsuranceChampionship.com. To learn more about First Tee and see the full field list, visit FirstTee.org.  

Meet 2 PURE Insurance Championship juniors who are making an impact 

Many First Tee participants work for years to earn a spot in the PURE Insurance Championship, a PGA TOUR Champions event that pairs golf legends and business leaders with First Tee juniors for a week of competition and mentorship at Pebble Beach Golf Links. 

First Tee juniors are selected for the field based on their golf skills and their commitment to First Tee values. Two participants who excel in both areas are Malakai Jazayeri from First Tee – Phoenix and Ashton Washington from First Tee – Tampa Bay. 

Malakai is a senior from Gilbert, Arizona, with aspirations to play collegiate golf and experience new cultures after graduation. He’s been involved with First Tee – Phoenix for a decade, and he was named the chapter’s 2024 Player of the Year. He also works at Goodwill. 

Ashton will not only graduate from high school this spring, but he’ll also earn his associate’s degree in business administration. He aspires to play professional golf and work in real estate development. He’s a member of National Honor Society and he volunteers with organizations that address food insecurity in his community.  

On Thursday, PURE Insurance Championship executives surprised Malakai and Ashton with invitations to join the First Tee College Scholarship Program. 

The First Tee College Scholarship Program is building game changers 

Launched in 2020, the First Tee College Scholarship Program provides selected alumni with financial support, mentorship and professional development opportunities to help them succeed in college and beyond.  

Since its inception, more than 125 First Tee Scholars have benefited from this comprehensive support system, designed to prepare them for success both academically and personally. 

PURE Insurance has been the title sponsor of the PURE Insurance Championship since 2017 and is a dedicated partner of the First Tee College Scholarship Program.  

“I’m so proud to continue our involvement with, and support of, this incredible organization,” said Martin Leitch, CEO of PURE Insurance. “Golf skills aside, the young men and women of First Tee excel in the classroom, give their time to their communities and lead in their First Tee chapters, their schools and beyond. They’re going to shape the future — and PURE is proud to support them and help share their stories.”

As they prepare to take this next step, Malakai and Ashton join a network of motivated alumni who represent the values and skills learned through First Tee.  

Learn more about the First Tee Alumni Network.

First Tee launches National Alumni Advisory Council to strengthen engagement across its growing Alumni Network 

The First Tee National Alumni Advisory Council held its first in-person meeting in Charlotte 

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Sept. 15, 2025) – First Tee has launched a National Alumni Advisory Council, a group of 20 dynamic alumni who are business and community leaders from across the United States. The council will play a key role in shaping the future of the organization’s growing Alumni Network. 

The Alumni Council’s primary focus will be to guide and direct strategies that engage more alumni in meaningful ways — helping them stay connected to each other and to First Tee’s mission of empowering young people through golf and life skills programming. 

In addition to virtual meetings, the Alumni Council will gather annually, with its first session having taken place Sept. 12-14 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event is sponsored by Gallagher. 

“First Tee alumni are an essential part of our story and our future,” said First Tee CEO Greg McLaughlin. “The Alumni Council will help ensure we are creating opportunities for them to continue to grow, give back and lead, while staying connected to the values they developed through First Tee.” 

The Alumni Council is co-chaired by Rayshon Payton of First Tee – Metropolitan Oklahoma City, who works as general counsel for Delaware Sen. Lisa Blunt, and Sara Diaz of First Tee – San Antonio, a presenter for ESPN+ and PGA TOUR Live and vice president of recruiting for Capstone Hospitality. 

“I’m thrilled to come full circle with First Tee, an organization that has shaped not only my life but the lives of so many others,” Payton said. “Serving as board chair of the Alumni Council is a special opportunity to give back, support the next generation and help strengthen a community that continues to inspire growth on and off the course.” 

“I’m excited to continue being part of the First Tee, the program where my golf journey began,” Diaz said. “I’m truly honored to be selected as co-chair of the First Tee Alumni Council and look forward to expanding our Alumni Network to foster lasting connections and meaningful opportunities.” 

Council members represent a diverse group of graduates who embody the impact of First Tee programs. They were appointed and will serve terms of two, three or four years. Together, they will guide efforts to recruit alumni, design impactful engagement opportunities and drive alumni reconnection to local chapters. As ambassadors of the program, they will inspire current participants and help grow a powerful, united Alumni Network. 

The First Tee Alumni Network includes thousands of former participants who have carried the organization’s values into their careers, communities and lives. Since its launch in 2020, the First Tee Alumni Network has provided career assistance, professional and personal development opportunities and fun events for former participants. It’s free to join and open to all First Tee Alumni. 

For more information about the Alumni Network, visit firsttee.org/alumni. 

2025 Alumni Council members 

Rayshon Payton Metropolitan Oklahoma City General Counsel, Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester 
Sara Diaz Greater San Antonio VP of Recruiting, Capstone Hospitality 
Anthony Bonales Central Valley Finance Manager, Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling 
Grace Kehoe Greater Charlotte Media Logger, PGA TOUR 
Karrington Knight Greater New Orleans Staff Assistant, Rep. Jasmine Crockett 
Steven Outlaw, PGA Hammond (Historical) Director of Sales & Marketing, Troon 
Colm Parrish Pittsburgh Category Manager, Catalent Pharma Solutions 
Hannah Rens Siouxland Systems Engineer, Boeing 
Benjamin Nganga Tennessee Real Estate Valuations Analyst, Baker Tilly 
Ashley Noda Greater Sacramento Director of Outreach & Competitive Activities, First Tee – Greater Sacramento 
Alyssa Ramont Central Valley Executive Administrative Assistant, San Francisco Giants 
David Singh Tampa Bay Program Manager, Cleveland Clinic of Florida 
Blake Christenson Tennessee Designer, Cooper Carry 
Michelle Xie Silicon Valley Software Engineer, Dave 
Mia Bishop Metro Atlanta Psychotherapist 
Brittany Gill Greater Richmond Corporate Partnerships Manager, PGA TOUR 
Derrick Ow Monterey County Communications & Customer Service Coordinator, Northern California Golf Association 
Connor Shooks Benton Harbor Sports Management Student, University of Michigan 
Callen Williams Metropolitan New York Assistant Program Director, First Tee – Metropolitan New York 
Taryn Yee Greater Sacramento Program Manager, Meta 

Guidance and growth: Inside the bond between a First Tee Scholar, mentor

One of the most impactful aspects of the First Tee College Scholarship Program is mentorship. Each Scholar is matched with a dedicated adult to support them as they enter college and prepare for life after graduation.

First Tee Scholar Esther Etherington is a senior at Franklin College, where she’s majoring in elementary education and nonprofit leadership with plans to enter the golf industry. Last summer, Esther interned with First Tee — Greater Charleston’s Pathfinder Program and served as a USGA Pathways intern at the U.S. Open. This past summer, Esther worked at her former chapter, First Tee — Indiana, as the site director in Richmond. Her team helped to successfully launch three new community partnerships with the Boys & Girls Club, Girls Inc. and Townsend Community Center, reaching its highest number of participants since COVID-19, 160 youth.

Esther’s mentor is Hope Oaks, a Ball State University graduate. Hope is a health science systems specialist at Pfizer, Inc., and she currently serves on the board of directors for the Indiana Golf Foundation and the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation. 

They shared their experience and tips on building a successful mentor-mentee relationship.

FT: Describe your experience as a Scholar mentor.

HO: I felt honored when asked to be Esther’s mentor because I had already been a witness to her leadership at First Tee when she would speak at our fundraising events while she was in high school.  Her confidence, authenticity and desire to share the gifts she was given resonated with me. 

FT: How did you build trust with your mentee?  

HO: My experience has been that trust is built with time and keeping commitments with one another.  My mentors have set a good example for me by creating a safe space to share questions, challenges, goals, disappointments, frustrations and the emotions that go with them.  It’s vital to know you can 100% show up and express your true self.   

FT: What is one word you’d use to describe your mentoring relationship and why?  

HO: Joy. Whenever the next thing on the calendar is coming up that we have set, I know that our time together will result in a happy spirit and a positive memory.  Esther inspires me and we both have similar humor.   

FT: Describe a memorable moment you’ve shared with your mentee. 

HO: One of my favorite moments was this summer when I spent the day observing and volunteering at Esther’s First Tee location in Richmond. Her organization and leadership skills are to be coveted. It was so much fun to see it all in action with her coaches, volunteers and students.  She was truly sharing her gifts with the world. The parents were happy their kids were in the program, and you could see the kids were delighted to be there and having fun while learning. Esther is a connection and networking queen, and she built a successful program in less than six months from scratch because of her reputation and genuine relationships in her community. She connects with each child at their level: kindness, care, thoughtfulness and fun are all in her bag of superpowers. She continues to inspire me as an example and I’m grateful for the opportunity this program has afforded us.   

FT: How has your mentor helped you feel more confident or prepared for life after college?   

EE: Hope has helped me feel more prepared for life after college by celebrating and capitalizing on my strengths. Her perspective has provided valuable connections, advice and friendship which has made me a better and more well-rounded person.  

FT: How do you feel your relationship with your mentor has changed your college experience? 

EE: The relationship that I have with Hope has been a transformative part of my college experience because she is a close member on my “go to” team. Hope is always a phone call or text message away.  

FT: Drawing from what you’ve observed in your peers’ mentoring relationships, what advice would you share with someone just starting out as a mentor? 

EE: When you are just starting out as a mentor, it is important to remember that the mentor and mentee relationship is a two-way street. Your mentor is there for you in the highs and lows of college and beyond, so effort and transparency are important.  

FT: Describe a memorable moment you’ve shared with your mentor.   

EE: We have had many memorable moments including going to a Purdue basketball game, the Indy Jazz Kitchen and lots of golf together. At the top of the list includes Hope traveling from Indianapolis when I was the site director at First Tee – Indiana in Richmond to volunteer with the kids.