Allan MacCurrach Jr. Award

Scholarship Sponsored by Golf Course Superintendents Association of America

Description
**Purpose and focus**
The award recognizes an outstanding non-traditional student pursuing a career in golf course and turfgrass management. It was created to support individuals changing careers or returning to school later in life and to encourage leadership in turfgrass and golf-course operations. The program is funded by Allan MacCurrach III and the PGA Tour and administered through the GCSAA Foundation. The award emphasizes practical career intent and professional development within the turfgrass community.

Key takeaways
- Supports non-traditional students entering golf course/turfgrass careers.
- Funded by Allan MacCurrach III and the PGA Tour.
- Administered by the GCSAA Foundation.
- Emphasizes leadership and career-focused development.

Award value
**Monetary and experiential support**
The recipient receives both financial and professional-development benefits. A $10,000 check is issued and made payable to the student and the recipient’s school to support education and training costs. In addition, the winner receives an expenses-paid trip to the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show to network, learn, and engage with industry professionals.

Key takeaways
- $10,000 check payable to the student and their school.
- Expenses-paid trip to the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show.
- Combined financial and career-development emphasis.

Eligibility
**Who may apply**
Applicants must be enrolled in a recognized undergraduate program or technical school in a major directly related to golf course management or turfgrass science; seniors who graduate before the application deadline are ineligible. Candidates must be planning a career as a golf course superintendent or in a closely related professional discipline. The award targets non-traditional students: applicants must be at least 23 years old and pursuing a second degree or a new career path in turfgrass management. Preference is given to historically underrepresented applicants.

Key takeaways
- Enrolled in relevant collegiate or technical program; graduating seniors before the deadline are not eligible.
- Intend to pursue a career as a superintendent or related professional.
- Must be 23+ and seeking a second degree or career change.
- Preference for historically underrepresented groups.

Selection criteria
**How applications are evaluated**
Selection is based on academic achievement, demonstrated potential to become a leading turfgrass professional, and relevant employment history. A required letter of recommendation must be completed by a superintendent, academic advisor, or current/former employer and submitted by the application’s June deadline. Applicants may upload the letter as a PDF with their application, or the reference may email it directly to Erin Wolfram. The committee reviews all materials to assess readiness for professional advancement in the industry.

Key takeaways
- Evaluated on academics, professional potential, and employment history.
- Letter of recommendation required from specified referees.
- Letter must be submitted by the June deadline (upload or email to Erin Wolfram).
- Committee assesses readiness for leadership roles in turfgrass management.

Application timeline
**Deadlines and notifications**
The letter of recommendation must be submitted by the program’s June deadline each year; applicants will be notified of award status by August 1. Applicants should confirm exact application and letter deadlines for the current cycle, as dates can vary year to year. Allow time for referees to prepare and submit letters well before the June cutoff to avoid disqualification.

Key takeaways
- Letter of recommendation due by the June deadline.
- Applicants notified by August 1.
- Confirm current-year deadlines before applying.
- Submit referee materials early to ensure timely consideration.

How to apply
**Portal access and account requirements**
Review the full application instructions before beginning the application. The application portal requires a login—use your existing gcsaa.org credentials or create an account if you do not have one. The portal accepts both members and non-members for account creation; however, eligibility requirements (see Eligibility) still apply. Prepare your transcripts, resume, and recommendation letter (or arrange for your referee to email it) prior to starting the online form.

Key takeaways
- Read application instructions in full before starting.
- Login required; use gcsaa.org credentials or create an account.
- Portal accepts members and non-members for access.
- Have transcripts, resume, and letter logistics ready before applying.

Disqualifications and other rules
**Situations that render applicants ineligible**
Previous recipients of this award may not apply for a second award. Also, children of individuals employed by the GCSAA Foundation’s Board of Trustees, the GCSAA Board of Directors, and GCSAA staff are not eligible. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and do not fall into any disqualification categories before preparing your application.

Key takeaways
- Previous recipients are not eligible to reapply.
- Children of GCSAA Foundation trustees, GCSAA directors, and GCSAA staff are ineligible.
- Verify eligibility and disqualification rules before applying.