First Tee Sponsored Scholarship Opportunities

Named after Arnold Palmer’s father Deacon, this annual $2,000 scholarship, renewable for up to four years based on academic performance, is given to a maximum of two graduating high school seniors each year. Applicants must have been active participants for at least TWO years. Nominees must have at least a 2.5/4.0 GPA and have demonstrated exceptional merit, citizenship, academic achievement, as well as service and commitment to the mission of First Tee – Pittsburgh. Applications are released on March 1, 2024 and must be submitted by May 6, 2024. Awardees are announced in late May each year and recognized at the annual Tee It Forward dinner in September.

This annual $5,000 scholarship, funded by Joan and Rodger Gurrentz, is renewable for up to four years based on academic performance, and will be given to one graduating high school senior each year. Applicants must have been active participants for at least TWO years. Nominees must have at least a 3.0/4.0 GPA and have demonstrated exceptional merit, citizenship, academic achievement, as well as service and commitment to the mission of First Tee – Pittsburgh. Applications are released on March 1, 2024, and must be submitted by May 6, 2024. Awardees are announced in early June each year and recognized at the annual Tee It Forward dinner in September.

Commemorating Paul Straunch, pronounced “Strow,” this paid internship is for participants ages 16 and older, who embody the “character, precision, compassion and honesty” demanded by the game of golf. Interns can earn up to $2,000 working throughout the summer at the Bob O’Connor Golf Course, assisting the staff for a minimum of 20 hours per week. Interested applicants must submit an essay by May 1, 2024, outlining how they feel they can contribute to the chapter as an intern, in addition to having a valid work permit and transportation to and from the facility.

Created by the former Oakmont Country Club Head Professional, this annual one-time $5,000 scholarship is given to a graduating high school senior who best exemplifies the leadership qualities Bob Ford demonstrated throughout his career. Applicants must have been active participants for at least THREE years as of March 1, 2024. Participants submit an essay by Monday, August 19, 2024, outlining the impact First Tee – Pittsburgh has had on their life, which is reviewed by the scholarship committee. Finalists for the award MUST BE available to interview with Mr. Ford in person in late August at a date and time to be determined by mutual agreement.