Emerging Leader Award

The Emerging Leader Award is presented in partnership with johnDeer

The Emerging Leader Award recognizes an individual who serves the industry as a superintendent with less than five years’ experience, student, associate member, or assistant, who displays continuous growth in service and leadership.

Nominations for the 2026 Emerging Leader Award will open April 11.

For questions, contact Jackie Groll, manager, executive operations, by email at jgroll@gcsaa.org, by phone at 785-832-4410, or by mail to GCSAA, 1421 Research Park Dr., Lawrence, KS 66049-3859.

An individual may be nominated by a chapter of GCSAA or any member of GCSAA, including self-nominations. Evidence of substantiation must accompany the nomination. Nominees for the Emerging Leader Award must currently serve the industry as a member of GCSAA within the following membership categories: superintendent with less than five years’ experience, student, associate, or assistant. A Nominee must be a member in good standing, engaged in their local chapter and/or at the national level, or at the community level, as an advocate for the profession.

The Emerging Leader Award will be selected by the GCSAA Nominating Committee.

The Emerging Leader Award winner receives:

  • Complimentary registration to the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, and select air/hotel travel expenses.
  • Complimentary registration to the Chapter Delegates Meeting and select air/hotel travel expenses.
  • Recognition in GCSAA publications and websites
  • Recognition at the GCSAA Conference and Trade Show
  • National, regional and local publicity
  • Personalized plaque
  • Name on a permanent plaque at GCSAA headquarters

2025

Chad Allen

2024

Richie Kremer

2023

Brandon Razo

2022

Travis Cook

GCSAA is dedicated to serving its members, advancing their profession
and improving communities through the enjoyment, growth and vitality of the game of golf
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