PGA REACH_Sofia Alvarez PGA WORKS Fellow Article
CONNECTICUT PGA SECTION SELECTS SOFIA ALVAREZ AS PGA WORKS FELLOW
Post-graduate role encourages diversity in the game and business of golf
Hartford, Conn. (Feb. 11, 2019) – PGA REACH, the 501 (c)(3) charitable foundation of the PGA of America – in conjunction with the Connecticut PGA Section – has selected Sofia Alvarez, of Maracaibo, Venezuela, to join the team as the PGA WORKS Fellow. The PGA WORKS Fellowship program aspires to be the most valuable entry-level opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain experience in all facets of the golf industry.
In this role, Alvarez will support the mission and purpose of the Connecticut PGA Section Foundation and support PGA HOPE programming, PGA Jr. League, and Drive, Chip, & Putt. She will also assist with foundation administration, operations and fundraising events, as related to PGA REACH and the Connecticut PGA Section. Previously, Alvarez served as an intern in the USGA’s P.J. Boatwright Internship Program.
“All career paths start with awareness and opportunity – and providing individuals from diverse backgrounds entry into the golf industry is a priority for PGA REACH,” said Ryan Cannon, Senior Director of PGA REACH. ” PGA WORKS is an important initiative, and we’re thrilled to create new possibilities through the PGA WORKS Fellowship to pursue the dream of a career in golf.”
Alvarez earned her Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism from North Carolina A&T in 2018, graduating Summa Cum Laude, with the highest GPA in her discipline. From 2016-2018, she earned the most valuable player award for the North Carolina A&T women’s golf team, where she competed in the newly renamed PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship (formerly the PGA Minority Collegiate Championship).
“We are thrilled to have Sofia join us,” said Tom Hantke, Connecticut PGA Section Executive Director. “In her role, she will have the opportunity to combine her exemplary education and love of golf to support the Connecticut PGA Section’s commitment to providing opportunities for inclusion within the golf industry.”
Launcedh in 2017, the PGA WORKS Fellowship now hosts 12 Fellows across the country int he following PGA Sections: Carolinas, Connecticut, Gateway, Metropolitan, Michigan, Middle Atlantic, New Jersey, Northern Ohia, Southern Ohio, Western New York, Indiana, and South Florida. The goal is to have Fellows in all 41 PGA Sections.
“I see myself as serving as a bridge for the PGA of America to develop inclusion in the golf industry, as well as expand cultural horizons,” said Alvarez. “I look forward to combining my passion for golf and education to serve as a role model in this fellowship role with the Connecticut PGA Section.”
The PGA of America recognizes that it will be defined by how its commitment to diversity and inclusion resonates throughout its programs and practices. This commitment is mission critical to the health and relevance of the business and the game overall.
For more inforamtion on PGA REACH, visit pgareach.org.