Steve Randall – 10/26/24
85 delegates representing 87 chapters meet in person at GCSAA Headquarters and the Hilton Kansas City Airport
Delegates from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) met in-person during a two-day event at GCSAA Headquarters in Lawrence, Kan., as well as the KCI Airport Hilton Hotel October 24-25, 2024.
The meeting brings leaders together from GCSAA’s 95 chapters to discuss initiatives, provide insight on moving the association forward, and to begin discussions on electing board members and officers at the February 2024 annual meeting.
First-day highlights included updates and information from CEO Rhett Evans on “Relentless Focus.” Delegates were asked to encourage participation and engagement in the industry from their staff and colleagues, while GCSAA continues to recognize the accomplishments of members.
A government affairs update was provided, informing attendees of potential legislative and regulatory advances that will impact the golf industry. Delegates also received information on the Rounds4Research program, and the 2024 GCSAA Golf Championships and Conference and Trade Show to be held in Phoenix.
On day two, delegates met at Headquarters in Lawrence. Discussion included various department leader updates, including information on the need for facility Best Management Practices. Facility BMP’s are essential to showcase how golf course superintendents are environmental stewards.
Recently, GCSAA implemented a new program and service, focusing on the First Green Program and Workforce Development. Updates highlighted how these programs are introducing students and individuals to the game of golf. Labor continues to be a challenge and this area addresses those concerns.
GCSAA has also formed a Centennial Committee. The association will turn 100-years old in 2026. Plans and activities to engage all members for the event were presented.
Delegates also participated in breakout sessions. The breakouts allowed attendees to provide feedback and information on GCSAA’s current dues adjustment process using the Consumer Price Index, assisting with facility BMP implementation, ways to increase rounds/bidders for Rounds4Research, career development certificates, and Centennial plans.
Candidate breakout sessions concluded activities. The delegates were awarded ample time to interact and ask questions of the candidates. Those running for the GCSAA Board in 2024 are:
· For President – Jeff L. White, CGCS
· For Vice President – T.A. Barker, CGCS
· For Secretary/Treasurer – Paul L. Carter, CGCS; Doug Dykstra, CGCS
· For Director (electing two) – Greg Jones, CGCS, MG; Ryan Kraushofer, CGCS, Christopher Reverie, Marc Weston, CGCS
There are two open director positions for two-year terms. The terms of Dykstra and Weston are expiring. If Dykstra is not elected to the Secretary/Treasurer position, he will need to run from the floor for an open director position to remain on the board. If Carter becomes Secretary/Treasurer a third person will need to be elected for the one remaining year on his term.
Kevin P. Breen, CGCS, will serve on the board for one year as immediate past president. Mark F. Jordan, CGCS, retires from the board after being immediate past president in 2023. GCSAA’s Annual Meeting will take place Thursday, February 1, 2024 from 8-10 a.m. at the Phoenix Convention Center.
