The Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for young caddies to pursue their education. It’s named after Charles “Chick” Evans Jr., a legendary amateur golfer who won the U.S. Open and the U.S. Amateur in the same year (1916). Established in 1930, the scholarship aims to provide financial assistance and support to deserving caddies, enabling them to attend college.
Here are some key points about the Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship:
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Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the scholarship, candidates typically need to have a strong caddie record, excellent academics, demonstrated financial need, and outstanding character. The program is known for considering not only the academic achievements but also the caddie’s work ethic and commitment.
Selection Process
The selection process is competitive, and applicants are usually required to undergo interviews. The scholarship committees evaluate factors such as the caddie’s length of service, performance, and letters of recommendation.
Financial Support
The scholarship provides full tuition and housing at one of the 19 participating universities and colleges across the United States. The financial support aims to alleviate the burden of educational expenses for the recipients.
Caddie Network
The scholarship is often associated with golf, and candidates are usually caddies at golf clubs. The program values the caddie tradition and recognizes the positive impact it can have on a young person’s life.
Evans Scholars Foundation
The Evans Scholars Foundation administers the Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship. It’s a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing college scholarships to golf caddies.
Life-Long Community
Beyond financial support, recipients become part of a close-knit community of Evans Scholars. This network offers mentorship, networking opportunities, and a sense of belonging.
Impact
The Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship has had a significant impact on the lives of thousands of young individuals, providing them with the means to pursue higher education and achieve their goals.
Evans Scholars Houses: Recipients of the scholarship often live together in Evans Scholars Houses on or near the college campuses. These houses foster a sense of community among the scholars, creating a supportive environment for academic and personal growth. Living in these houses allows the scholars to form lasting friendships and connections with fellow Evans Scholars.
Leadership and Service
The program places a strong emphasis on leadership and community service. Evans Scholars are encouraged to take on leadership roles within their houses and participate in service projects. This focus on giving back to the community helps instill a sense of responsibility and social consciousness among the scholars.
Alumni Network
Upon graduation, Evans Scholars become part of a vast and influential alumni network. This network provides ongoing support, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Many alumni credit the scholarship program not only with providing financial assistance during their college years but also with laying the foundation for successful careers and meaningful lives.
Expanding Opportunities
Over the years, the Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship program has expanded its reach and impact. The Evans Scholars Foundation continues to work towards including more universities and colleges in the program, offering even more young caddies the chance to receive a quality education.
Donor Support
The program relies on the generosity of donors, including individuals, golf organizations, and businesses. Donors contribute to the scholarship fund, enabling the foundation to provide educational opportunities to deserving caddies. The commitment of these donors reflects a shared belief in the transformative power of education.
Success Stories
The success stories of Evans Scholars serve as inspiring examples of the program’s effectiveness. Many scholars have gone on to achieve remarkable accomplishments in various fields, including business, sports, academia, and public service. These stories highlight the long-term impact of the scholarship on the lives of its recipients.
Green Coat Gala raises record $8.4 million for caddies
More than 300 supporters attend black-tie affair in downtown Chicago
GLENVIEW, Ill. — The Western Golf Association (WGA) hosted its 12th annual Green Coat Gala on Friday, Nov. 3, raising a record $8.4 million to help send deserving caddies to college through the Evans Scholars Foundation (ESF).
More than 300 supporters attended the black-tie affair at The Peninsula Chicago and virtually via livestream. All proceeds will support youth caddies and the Evans Scholarship, a prestigious full housing and tuition college grant offered to golf caddies.
In addition to a record $1.1 million raised through the event, ESF leaders announced that a group of friends and supporters made gifts totaling more than $7.3 million in honor of philanthropists Mike and Lindy Keiser for their longstanding dedication to the Evans Scholars Foundation and the Keiser Family Caddie Scholarship.
The Keisers were also named the inaugural recipients of The Keiser Leadership Award, a new WGA award established in their honor. Moving forward, The Keiser Leadership Award will serve to forever recognize those who have shown outstanding leadership in supporting the organization’s mission of sending youth caddies to college.
“Lindy and I are overwhelmed by the generosity of so many people in support of youth caddies and the Evans Scholarship,” Mike Keiser said. “These wonderful gifts will make a difference in the lives of youth caddies, and we are thankful to all who continue to support young men and women in their pursuit of a high-quality education.”
After caddying as a youth, Mike Keiser went on to develop golf’s preeminent destinations in Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Sand Valley Golf Resort, and Cabot Cape Breton. A WGA Director since 2007, Mike Keiser has served as honorary chairman of the Match Play Challenge for 13 years. He and Lindy were among the first to get involved in The Promise Campaign, serving as co-chairs of the Evans Scholars Foundation’s $370 million fundraising effort.
Application Timeline
- August 1: Application available online. Review the information on the website.
- October 1: CSS Financial Aid Profile becomes available. Please complete the CSS Profile online and submit to CSS along with the required fee as soon as possible. The Evans Scholars Foundation CSS code is 0153.
- October 15: Applications are expected to be completed, including all supporting documents (completed CSS Profile, High School Evaluation, Caddie Evaluation, letters of recommendation, high school transcript and test scores).
- December: Due to the many updates and changes to the FAFSA, it will not be available until December 2023. As a result, please submit a copy of your completed 2024-25 FAFSA Submission Summary with the Student Aid Index (SAI) on or before January 15.
- April 1: All application decisions are finalized.
