Lawrence, Kansas, United States: The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has announced the debut of the Women’s Leadership Academy.

To be held from November 7-9 in Lawrence, Kansas, home of the GCSAA headquarters, the event is focused on providing women in the turfgrass industry with education, mentoring and networking, enabling participants to unleash their potential, empower their future and become inspirational leaders on scales both small and large.

Participants will be guided along a path of discovery aimed at breaking down barriers and enhancing inner skills to maximise their impact as leaders.

The Women’s Leadership Academy will be headlined by Suzy Whaley, PGA Master Professional and the first woman to serve as President of the PGA of America, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

Whaley, who has a unique understanding of the work of turfgrass professionals, having worked side-by-side with many GCSAA members, will speak to her experience in the golf industry and relate it to turfgrass professionals during a fireside chat at the opening evening reception where participants will be able to ask questions in a conversational format.

The 2½-day event is open to all women in the turfgrass industry, not just members of the GCSAA.

In addition, participants will bring a wide range of experience from those early in their career to those who are seasoned veterans. The diversity within the group will help grow the network of women, not only in golf, but within the entire turfgrass industry.

GCSAA CEO Rhett Evans said: “The Women’s Leadership Academy evolved from feedback from the 2022 GCSAA Women’s Task Group. This event gives us the opportunity to inspire a small, yet growing, and passionate group in our industry to become impactful leaders.

“Their leadership will not only help those already in the turfgrass industry but attract more women to work in turf-related fields.”

Education at the event will be divided into four segments: self-discovery, understanding others, communicating effectively and being an inspiration.

In addition to educational sessions, the Women’s Leadership Academy will include networking opportunities and discussions on wellness, talent optimisation, human resources and more.

The Women’s Leadership Academy top-level benefactors include The Toro Company, Nufarm and Yamaha, who are designated as event Trailblazers. Club Car is a Pathfinder benefactor, and Target Specialty Products is a Flag Bearer benefactor.

Toro and Club Car are Executive Members of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.