Great Golf on a Hot Day for Student Scholarships

MWU's Downers Grove Campus held its annual Chippin' in for Students golf outing last Friday on a beautiful summer day with a full course of golfers. This year, about 10 MWU students were able to play because some generous sponsors donated their foursomes back to the university. The lucky students were selected by a random drawing and were able to enjoy a great morning at Seven Bridges Golf Club.

The Platinum Sponsor for the outing was MWU's long-time partner, Chanen Construction Company, while the Presenting Sponsor was Hill Mechanical Group. The Title Sponsor was McGuire Woods, and the Eagle Sponsor was Bank of America. These top sponsors were joined by 20 Birdie Sponsors, 10 Tee Sponsors, and 16 event, student, and printing sponsors. In all, more than $25,000 was raised for our student scholarship fund (we are still calculating the final proceeds, but this was the best year ever for this event!).

Photo: Me and Rich Frawley of Precise Printing Network ready to head out for the shotgun start.

And while the purpose of the event was to raise money for our students, the highlight for the 144 golfers was the chance to hit the little white ball around a very difficult course on a hot day! The winning team ended up at 17 under par. My team, which included Steve and Brad from DWL Architects + Planners, finished at 13 under; not too bad.

Photos: Left, MWU VP Angela Marty on the putting green; Chanen rep Tommy Sjoholm teeing off on hole 10.

Following the round, all the golfers gathered for a barbecue lunch, the awards presentation, and the raffle drawing. Dr. G welcomed the group and thanked everyone for their support of our students. Two students also shared their appreciation for the financial support that events like this provide. MWU Senior VP and CFO Greg Gaus thanked all the sponsors to loud applause. The top three teams were awarded crystal trophies (with the team of Tommy from Chanen, Dr. G, and Executive VP and COO Art Dobbelaere taking third place). Awards were given for closest to the pin, longest drive, longest putt, and straightest drive. My highlight was winning the women's longest drive award this year. Needless to say, I crushed it on the right hole!

Photo: Dr. G presenting me with the longest drive award.

All in all, it was a wonderful event and a great day for MWU. Thanks to Dana, Abena, and the Communications team for organizing the event; and to Barb and the Alumni Development team for working with the sponsors and participating at the event. Special thanks to the group of community volunteers who helped us with raffle prizes and volunteered at the event. And thanks to Susan Hershberg for the great photos. The entire day was a great team effort, and our students were the beneficiaries. Thanks to all who participated and we hope to see you again next year!