STPGA and its partners surpass last year’s record and continue to empower junior golfers to reach new heights in both their golfing and academic pursuits
SPRING, TEXAS – The PGA REACH Southern Texas Scholarship Program is excited to announce the awarding of 63 scholarships to 60 individuals to the cumulative amount of $297,500. This amount is a massive increase of $87,000 compared to last year’s program and we are so appreciative of all our partner’s support. These funds will help these 60 young adults continue their academic careers during the 2024-2025 school year.
“Another record year for the STPGA and we could not be happier for these deserving young men and women,” said Bryan Minnick, President of the Southern Texas PGA. “From fellow PGA of America Members supporting this program to other organizations involved with golf, I just want to say thank you.”
Since 1999, the PGA REACH Southern Texas Scholarship Program has been a beacon of opportunity, granting over 530 scholarships totaling more than $1,991,500 to ambitious juniors pursuing higher education. These scholarships recognize the exemplary achievements and outstanding character of graduating high school seniors and current college students.
The STPGA extends heartfelt appreciation to the Hannon Cup Association for their continued investment of $110,000 this year, resulting in the awarding of 14 scholarships at various levels. Under the leadership of PGA of America Members Steve Termeer and Brent Buckman, this Association sets the standard for community engagement and support for the educational aspirations of young men and women.
In collaboration with the Hannon Cup Association, the STPGA is thrilled to announce a forthcoming Scholarship Luncheon later this summer. This event aims to honor the scholarship recipients, foster meaningful interaction with trustees, and highlight the profound impact these scholarships have on the lives of the winners and their families.
“I am honored and grateful to receive a scholarship this year,” said Cole Cantu, recipient of the J.L. Lewis Scholarship. “It’s going to make a huge difference for me as I embark on my college journey. The STPGA has been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today. Through their support, I’ve not only gained valuable skills but also formed lasting friendships and discovered my sense of purpose.”
In 2024, the PGA REACH Southern Texas Scholarship Program experienced significant growth with the introduction of a variety of new scholarships. Insperity Invitational made a remarkable impact with an inaugural investment of $20,000. Recipients, Benjamin Potter, and Jaycee Jenkins were honored at the Player’s Dinner held in conjunction with the Insperity Invitational on May 2nd, in the presence of golf legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Gary Player, and more.
Abraham Ancer collaborated with the STPGA to make a lasting impact not only on individuals pursuing higher education but also on their entire families. Through a generous investment of $15,000, three scholarships were awarded at different levels, exemplifying a commitment to educational advancement and community empowerment.
We also want to thank PGA Professional, Mark Duranski and BraeBurn Country Club who awarded $3,500 in scholarships this year as well as Judy and Palmer Moe for their $3,000 investment. Lastly, the JL Lewis Scholarship saw an increase due to the awesome work at the Cimarron Hills Pro-Am earlier this spring!
“Thank you to everyone that supports these scholarships,” said Thomas Hutton, Executive Director for the STPGA. “We have so many people involved in this program, and we could not be happier with this year’s outcome.”
Each scholarship name listed below contributes to a legacy of generosity, honoring individuals or organizations dedicated to supporting the next generation. These scholarships have a profound impact on the lives of recipients, ranging in value from $1,000 to $10,000.
2024 PGA REACH Southern Texas Scholarship Recipients
Abraham Ancer
Bryan Sandoval, Texas A&M – San Antonio
Ximena Paz, University of Arkansas – Monticello
Eric Zuniga, Iowa Central Community College
Bill Sitton Sr.
Ty Roberts, Alabama State University
Rayana Lopez, Texas A&M University – Kingsville
BraeBurn Country Club
Isabella Hayward
Hawaii Pacific University
Carol Mann Scholarship
Jasmine Do, Abilene Christian University
Mary Kerr, Midwestern State University
Charlie Epps
Maggie Ni, University of Pennsylvania
Quade Woods, Alabama State University
Jolie Bridy, Baylor University
Brinley Patterson, East Texas Baptist University
Jeffrey Janik, Texas Lutheran University
Genaro Davila, University of Texas at Austin
Ryan Montoya, Ottawa University – Surprise Arizona
Kyle Mahan, Western New Mexico University
Braeden Hoyt, Rice University
Holden Kittelberger, Tufts University
Hannah Newell, LeTourneau University
Dick Harmon
Aiden Marlow, Trinity University
Kendall Jackson, Howard University
Eddie Burke Sr.
Jasmine Do, Abilene Christian University
Energy Transfer
Joshua Buffington, Stephen F. Austin University
Emma Hargrave, Abilene Christian University
Aaron Lopez, University of Texas at San Antonio
Martha Nail, San Jacinto College
Evelyn Ramirez, San Jacinto College
Kevin Salinas, Lone Star College – Cyfair
Michael Stewart, Lone Star College – University Park
George Hannon
Caroline Arnett, University of Arkansas
Madalyn Trevino, St. Mary’s University
Marlo Zamora, Trinity University
Ashley Kim, University of Texas at Austin
Nolan Clay, University of Texas at Austin
Mabrie McMahan, Washington University – St. Louis
Meredith Speer, Sam Houston State University
Cooper Maxwell, Texas State University
Julia Sosa, Sam Houston State University
Abi Newell, University of Denver
Shea Eason, Texas Lutheran University
Cole MacMillan, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Abigail McNeil, University of Central Oklahoma
Mimi Burton, University of Notre Dame
Hill Country MGA
Audri Poage, Texas A&M University
Insperity Invitational
Benjamin Potter, Dallas Baptist University
Jaycee Jenkins, Palm Beach Atlantic University
Jay Hebert
Abi Newell, University of Denver
J.L. Lewis Memorial
Jackson Hymer, Baylor University
Katelyn Lam, George Fox University
Cooper Holloman, Texas Lutheran University
Mary Kerr, Midwestern State University
Jacob Salazar, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Daytona Beach
Cole Cantu, University of the Incarnate Word
Tristan Gabbard, Midwestern State University
John & Ginny Termeer
Samuel Ullrich, Texas Tech University
Levy Cup Matches
Hallie Westfall, East Texas Baptist University
Murphy Family
Rayyan Anwar, University of Texas at Austin
Palmer and Judy Moe
MaeSyn Gay, University of Hardin Simmons
Lauren Jones, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor
Tatum Salinas, University of Texas at Austin
Texas Golf Hall of Fame – Joe Black
Breanna Hoese, Longwood University
Tommy Aycock
Jacob Blackburn, Texas Tech University
Mercedes Leal, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
For more information about the PGA REACH Southern Texas Scholarship Program, please click here.