San Diego, United States: Thirteen members of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) have been chosen for the 2019 Melrose Leadership Academy, which includes a trip to this week’s Golf Industry Show.

The Melrose Leadership Academy supports the professional development of GCSAA member superintendents. It is administered through the Environmental Institute for Golf (EIFG), the philanthropic organisation of the GCSAA.

The programme was established in 2012 by Ken Melrose, retired CEO and Chairman of the Board of The Toro Company, and is supported by a US$1 million gift to the EIFG from the Kendrick B. Melrose Family Foundation.

Academy members are chosen through an application process based on financial need, volunteerism and a drive to advance their careers. The new class will participate in networking and leadership activities, as well as attend a variety of education seminars.  

“The Melrose Leadership Academy is an amazing opportunity and our friend Ken Melrose makes it possible,” GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said. “Congratulations to the 13 winners whose professional development will be enriched by this experience.”

Melrose’s relationship with the golf industry is long-standing. He joined The Toro Company in 1970 and quickly ascended the ranks of the company, culminating with his appointment as CEO in 1983 and Chairman of the Board of Directors in 1987.

He retired as CEO in 2005 and from the Chairman position in 2006. That same year he formed Leading by Serving LLC, a new company whose mission is to advance the principles of servant leadership in business organisations.

Toro is an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.