ADVANCING THE PROFESSION
“ SAFE scholarship was likely the nail in the coffin for me being a lifelong member to the SFMA . It was my first introduction to the conference and what it meant to be part of an ‘ industry .’ I was putting myself through school , so the money was very useful ; but the experience of the conference was priceless . For SAFE and what they have done for so many students who share my experience , the SFMA and past winners are very grateful .”
— Tim Van Loo , CSFM , sports turf / golf sales , D & K Products ( 2001-02 SAFE scholarship class ).
“ The scholarships awarded by the SAFE Foundation play an important role in supporting the men and women who are the future of the sports field industry . By investing in these young people , we create more accessible educational opportunities and encourage industry growth . The scholarship supported my turfgrass science degree and gave me an opportunity to meet many wonderful SFMA members . These hardworking , dedicated members are why I have enjoyed being a part of the association for many years .”
— Kristen Althouse , director of operations , Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council ( 2004-05 SAFE scholarship class ).
plays an important role in finding and inspiring future field managers . I believe SAFE can inspire others like it did me .”
— Kyle Slaton , CSFM , department manager – agronomics , SiteOne Landscape Supply ( 2004-05 SAFE scholarship class ).
“ It is a great honor to be on the list of former recipients of the Dr . James Watson Scholarship for Graduate Students through the SAFE Foundation . One aspect of Dr . Watson ’ s legacy , and an important role of the SAFE Foundation , has always been advocating for safe athletic fields and supporting that initiative through sport-field-specific research . Through the scholarship I received , I was able to do those things while also improving upon myself from both a professional and educational perspective . As the importance of the playing surface becomes more apparent in the health , safety and well-being of all athletes , I believe it is imperative to support the foundation so it can continue to assist in making Safer Athletic Fields for Everyone !”
— Nick McKenna , CSFM , assistant athletics director , sports fields , Texas A & M Athletics ( 2007-08 SAFE scholarship class ).
“ Being awarded the Dr . James Watson Graduate Scholarship in 2009 was a big deal for me during my graduate studies . The recognition provided validation of my hard work and potential , boosting my confidence to continue striving for excellence in my research . I vividly remember Tony Koski , who was my advisor / professor during undergrad at Colorado State , saying , ‘ I ’ ve always thought that I can judge my value as a professor by what my students do after they graduate , and seeing you and Abby ( McNeal ) on that stage tonight was a great moment for me .’ His words underscored the significance of the award and the impact it had on my personal and professional growth . Abby was president of SFMA that year and Tony went on to win the Dr . William Daniel Founder ’ s award later that evening .
“ Even more than the financial piece of the scholarship , being able to attend the conference as a scholarship winner helped inspire my career . After attending that conference , I knew this was the industry I wanted to be in . I will also remember that first conference and how it impacted my career .
“ What SAFE does is vital for the future of our industry . The pool of sports field managers and interns has dwindled over the years , and SAFE
sportsfieldmanagementonline . com June 2024 | SportsField Management
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