Fifty students from 20 states and Singapore took part in the second annual Future Leaders Forum, sponsored by The Toro Co. and Walt Disney World. The forum brought together 50 young leaders from worldwide Chapters of The First Tee. In November, chosen high school students packed their bags for Walt Disney World Resort to participate in the unique three-day forum aimed at strengthening leadership skills and exploring career disciplines in and outside the game of golf.
“The Future Leaders Forum is a unique learning experience for our participants,” says Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., c.e.o. of The First Tee. “It gives them a chance to explore various career opportunities within the golf industry and ultimately plan ahead for their future.”
The forum was held in conjunction with the Children’s Miracle Network Classic – the final stop on the 2008 PGA Tour Fall Series. Students learned what it takes to put on a professional golf event, including the various careers involved. The Golf Channel discussed various components of broadcast journalism. The head golf superintendent talked about creating top course conditions. And, several other professionals addressed careers in media relations, corporate sponsorship and retail and marketing.
“We believe these experiences help prepare these young leaders for many exciting career opportunities,” says Mike Hoffman, chairman and c.e.o. of The Toro Co.. “It’s been extremely rewarding to be a part of this program. Our hope is one day they will influence the growth of our industry.”
Through Disney’s Leadership Excellence program, students were presented with the concept that through words and actions every leader is telling a story about what he or she values. They investigated proven management strategies employed by Walt Disney World and learned how to apply those philosophies to personal goals and leadership styles. Most importantly, students left the forum with new friendships and eager to share the experiences with their Chapters.
Students such as Lauren Lynch, a participant from Maple Grove, Minn., said they were encouraged by the forum’s extensive array of golf-related careers.
“Coming into this I had been thinking about going into physical therapy and sports medicine, which I now know I can tie into golf if I choose to,” Lynch says. “Going through all of the lectures and sessions really made me realize that I can combine my interest in golf with a career I will enjoy.”
Bradley Chandler, a participant from Pinebluff, N.C., adds, “I met people who gave me great insight into fields I otherwise wouldn’t have known about. I learned a lot about turf management and received some valuable career advice.”
The 50 young leaders, from 38 Chapters of The First Tee, were selected through an essay competition and application process. Nominees submitted a 200-word essay about their career aspirations and post-high school plans; a listing of involvement in school and community activities; and a letter of recommendation describing the student’s leadership skills.
