GCSAA has partnered with Nufarm to offer the EXCEL Leadership Program for assistant golf course superintendents. EXCEL offers leadership training for personal, career and community/industry stewardship.
The name EXCEL represents the education, cross training, community, encouragement and leadership development that the program provides.
The program, administered through GCSAA's philanthropic organization, the Environmental Institute for Golf, will feature two, two-day training sessions at Nufam's headquarters in Chicago and GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., each year of the three-year program cycle. In addition to the two-day training events, EXCEL members will also receive five-day trips to the annual Golf Industry Show
"With help from our friends at Nufarm, the EXCEL program will offer an unprecedented opportunity for assistant superintendents to advance their skills and take the next step in their careers," GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. "And the multi-year format will allow them to build a solid network as they go along the journey."
Applications for the 2018 class are due Nov. 3, 2017 (to apply, go to www.eifg.org/education/excel-leadership-program). EXCEL is open to Class C GCSAA members who are currently employed as an assistant golf course superintendent in the U.S. or Canada. Applicants must complete two essay questions and commit to the program for three years. Up to 12 assistant golf course superintendents will be chosen each year by a selection committee composed of the EXCEL Advisory Board and representatives from Nufarm.
"We are pleased to partner with GCSAA to bring the EXCEL Leadership Program to reality," expresses Steve Vincent, Nufarm Turf & Ornamental sales manager. "We believe in the work that GCSAA continues to put in to improve and educate the golf industry and are pleased to become an active partner in joining them in developing our future leaders."
Nufarm North America President and General Manager Brendan Deck shares Vincent's sentiment. "Nufarm strives to make life easier and better for our customers. The EXCEL Leadership program takes this concept to the next level by providing a foundation for our current and future customers allowing them to gain the skills, network and confidence going forward."
With this commitment, Nufarm will be a new member of the EIFG's Platinum Tee Club. In addition, Nufarm will be recognized at the Presidential Club level, for donors that have committed between $100,000 - $249,999 since 1987.