Student Voices: A Legendary Week at the PGA Annual Meeting

A PGA Golf Management degree can turn students’ passion into a career—and the PGA WORKS John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars Program can help open the door. This program, offering twenty scholarship awards of $8,000 each to students pursuing a PGA Golf Management University Program degree, is open for application until 3pm CT on February 6, 2026.

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PGA WORKS offers more than just funding. John & Tamara Lundgren Scholars get a jumpstart on building their careers through attendance at events like the PGA Annual Meeting, where they interact with current golf leaders and make strides toward their future. Here, Kayla Gutierrez, a 2023 scholarship recipient, shares her firsthand impression of attending the 107th PGA Annual Meeting. 

It’s hard to put into words how special the week really was. If I only had one word to describe my experience at 107th PGA Annual Meeting it would be . . . 

Legendary. 

For many reasons, my week in Frisco, Texas, was incredibly special. As a senior representing Florida Gulf Coast University as a PGA WORKS Scholar and University Leader, I was extremely honored. From the moment I set foot on the PGA Frisco campus, I was immediately immersed in the vibrant energy and unique camaraderie amongst PGA of America Golf Professionals from across the nation. I instantly knew I was in store for a great experience. 

The PGA of America National Awards ceremony on opening night was a fantastic start to the week, an evening dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements, commitments and performances of PGA Professionals, both on and off the golf course. As a future PGA Member, being present in that room was an immensely rewarding experience. Surrounded by some of the industry’s finest, I had the opportunity to learn about the journeys and accomplishments of all twelve honorees. Each story was a testament to the dedication, skill, and passion required to excel in the world of golf. 

In true golf pro fashion, we were up bright and early the following morning. The day began with an informal session followed by breakout sessions that included panels of engaging and knowledgeable PGA Golf Professionals and industry executives who each brought a diverse perspective and expertise to the table. For us PGM students, these conversations sparked an inquisitive interest and curiosity about all aspects of the golf industry. These interactions allowed us to ask questions, form relationships and make connections, and gain knowledge and advice from the best of the best. 

The evening of November 8, 2023, might’ve been the cherry on top of Annual Meeting week, however, as it featured the PGA of America Hall of Fame ceremony . . . certainly a night for the books. 

Seated in the same room with PGA of America Hall of Fame inductees was an experience that left me both truly inspired and deeply honored. Among the year’s remarkable inductees were individuals who have significantly shaped the world of golf: LPGA legend Kathy Whitworth, PGA Professionals Herb Wimberly, Don Wegrzyn, Robert F. Dolan Jr., Suzy Whaley, and the esteemed CBS Sports broadcaster Jim Nantz, with CBS Sports’ Amanda Renner as Master of Ceremonies. 

Each of them, legends in their own way, have contributed immensely to the sport. Witnessing these outstanding professionals receive their well-deserved accolades was a moment of profound inspiration for an aspiring PGA Golf Professional like me. 

The week wrapped up with a tour of the PGA Frisco campus. The state-of-the-art HQ is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of the PGA’s commitment to the future of the sport. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, exceptional training grounds, and resources that cater to every facet of golf, it stands as a beacon for innovation and development in the industry. 

The opportunity to engage with professionals and other PGM University students throughout the PGA Annual Meeting provided all of the PGA Works Scholars with invaluable lessons that will aid us in both our academic and professional careers. Through these conversations, we built a network through sharing our own experiences and journeys. I am so excited to become a PGA of America Golf Professional.