The 2019-2020 academic year has been one of change and
unprecedented challenges. Some of the challenges that have been presented will change the way that we do things as a university and an industry.
In December 2019, we had a strong group of graduates leave Mississippi State and embark on their careers as PGA of America members. You will see their names and positions towards the end of this publication. We are excited to see the impact they will have on the industry. Each class that leaves Mississippi State is unique and is welcomed into our alumni family.
We have experienced an incredible amount of change in terms of staffing. After 17 years, Jeff Adkerson moved on to the Golf House of Kentucky as the Executive Director. Jeff leaves behind a legacy and impact which will be felt for years to come here in McCool Hall. I have a special article later in this publication about Jeff so I hope you will enjoy reading it. Assistant Director Zach Tate left the program for the position of Head Golf Professional at Starkville Country Club. We have missed Zach’s personality in the office but we wish him well in his new position. With those two departures, it opened up for two promotions and a two new additions! Erika Scott was promoted from Program Assistant to Assistant Director while I was promoted from Head Golf Professional to Director of PGA Golf Management and Golf Operations. Erika and I are blessed and excited to be leading the program and picking up where Jeff left off. This spring has presented some unprecedented challenges but when the world normalizes we will forge ahead. In my departure from the MSU Golf Course, we were able to hire Tim Basel as the next Head Golf Professional. Tim is a 1998 graduate of the program and has been leading the facility since mid-May. His professional approach and inviting personality are a perfect fit for a facility that we all love. Finally, we hired Danielle Gaudé as the Program Assistant. Danielle has brought a wealth of knowledge with her from previous positions and we are excited to have her with us. All of these professional individuals are serving this program and the golf community in unique ways and we are fortunate to have these individuals in their positions.
We are proud of our students and graduates for their successes over this past year. Students continue to work hard in the classroom and on their internships. A number of our graduates have made moves in their careers, been recognized for their accomplishments and are starting/expanding their families! It is truly wonderful to see the impact you are having in your lives, careers and communities. As you continue to move forward, please share with us all of the good news happening in your lives. We love sharing your accomplishments!
Finally, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone as we continue to navigate this global pandemic. We are all in this together. Mississippi State University has taken as many measures as possible for a safe return to campus this fall. We have many things we must do this month to prepare for August, but are excited for a return to some normalcy for fall classes. We have not been able to see our students since early March and miss seeing them in McCool Hall each day.
Hail State!
A Letter from the Director...
Adam Scott, PGA
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