GCSAA Names 37 Participants for 2025 Women’s Leadership Academy

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) has selected 37 women in turfgrass management and related fields to participate in the 2025 Women’s Leadership Academy (WLA), scheduled for Nov. 11–13 at GCSAA headquarters in Lawrence, Kan.

The academy is designed to help participants strengthen leadership skills, overcome barriers, and expand their professional networks. The program emphasizes self-discovery, effective communication, and strategies for inspiring others—core competencies that support career advancement in the golf and sports turf industries.

Although women represent only a small percentage of the turfgrass workforce, GCSAA continues to expand opportunities for inclusion by investing in leadership development. Attendees of the 2025 WLA will join a growing network of professionals who are paving the way for future leaders across golf course management, sports turf, and related fields.

Featured Speaker

Suzy Whaley, PGA Master Professional and the first woman president of the PGA of America, will deliver the keynote address. Whaley will share personal insights from her career and highlight ways women can shape the future of the golf industry through leadership and mentorship.

Industry Support

The Women’s Leadership Academy is made possible by Trailblazer benefactors The Toro Co. and Yamaha, with additional support from Pathfinder benefactors Club Car, PBI Gordon, Syngenta, and Target Specialty Products. The event is endorsed by the Sports Field Management Association (SFMA).

2025 Cohort

This year’s 37 participants represent a wide range of roles within the turfgrass sector—from golf course superintendents and assistants to students, executives, and educators. A few of the selected professionals include:

• Zineb Alouani, student, Penn State University
• Jan Bel Jan, ASGCA, golf course architect, Jan Bel Jan Golf Course Design Inc.
• Abby Head, grounds manager/horticulture, Indianapolis Motor Speedway
• Carey Hofner, CGCS, superintendent, Happy Ranch
• Hannah Orr, superintendent, Shadow Ridge Country Club
• Kristina Walker, associate professor of agronomy, University of Minnesota – Crookston

(Full participant list available at gcsaa.org/wla)

About GCSAA

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), based in Lawrence, Kan., has served as the professional home for golf course management leaders since 1926. With nearly 20,000 members in more than 78 countries, GCSAA provides education, advocacy, and resources to support the growth and vitality of the game. Its philanthropic arm, the GCSAA Foundation, secures funding for advocacy, education, and research benefiting golf course management professionals. Learn more at gcsaa.org and visit GCSAA’s magazine at GCMonline.com.