STPGA Q2 UPDATE Member Outreach, Mentoring, and More
Dear STPGA Members,
I hope this message finds you well and enjoying a wonderful summer!
Following our second board meeting on July 10th, I wanted to provide you with some important updates. We're incredibly enthusiastic about a few new initiatives we're rolling out, building upon the strong foundation of our existing successful programs. Below are three key areas we focused on during the meeting:
Member Outreach Program: Your Voice Matters
We have launched a new Member Outreach Program designed to ensure your voices are heard directly by our leadership. Before each quarterly board meeting, every board member will personally contact three STPGA professionals. These assignments will rotate, allowing us to connect with a diverse group of members over time.
The goal of these calls is simply to have an informal, open conversation to understand what's on your mind. At the start of each board meeting, we summarize the key themes and feedback gathered. This direct input will be invaluable in shaping our decisions, enhancing our programs, and ultimately better serving all STPGA professionals. Please don't be surprised if a board member reaches out, and we truly encourage you to share your thoughts!
New Associate Development and Mentoring Initiative
The STPGA is thrilled to announce the launch of our new Associate Mentoring initiative, which the board thoroughly discussed and voted to approve. This program will focus on three key goals:
- Enhanced Onboarding Communication: We'll be sending updated and more in-depth communications to all new and transfer-in associates, providing comprehensive information about the Section and all available resources.
- Pro-Associate Events: We're introducing two new Pro-Associate events, with the first scheduled for October. These events aim to introduce Level 1 associates to the STPGA, featuring guest speakers, sharing best practices, and providing essential information about the PGA of America and the STPGA. Our goal is to keep their excitement for the golf industry high and maintain their motivation. Following this, Level 1 associates will have the unique opportunity to play golf with an existing PGA member, helping them expand their network and gain a valuable mentor.
- Associate Orientation Program: We will also implement a new, mandatory Associate Orientation program. This orientation will educate associates on the STPGA and the PGA of America, reinforcing their motivation within the industry. It's also a great way to introduce them to our dedicated STPGA staff, ensuring they know who to contact for support. Completing this orientation will be a prerequisite for associates to participate in any STPGA golf tournaments.
Strategic Plan Refresh Underway
The board of directors had a very robust and constructive conversation about our strategic plan. This plan has been an incredibly valuable tool for our staff and board, guiding our initiatives over the past several years. We've identified some exciting ideas to improve it further and will be sure to share these with you once they are finalized.
Lastly, our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone affected by the flooding in the Hill Country. If you know of a facility or PGA Member or Associate that has been directly affected, please reach out to either me or Thomas Hutton, our Executive Director. The PGA of America remains committed to the PGA Medical and Disaster Relief Fund that provides assistance to members who are faced with temporary financial problems due to serious medical emergencies or the impact of natural disasters.
Thank you for your ongoing support and engagement. Please know that I am always available and welcome any comments or concerns you may have.
Sincerely,
Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA
President, Southern Texas PGA
