For the 27th year, Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) will unite golfers with stunning vistas and two challenging courses – all in the name of supporting students, faculty and staff. The annual FGCU Founder’s Cup takes place Friday, Oct. 5, at Quail Creek Country Club in Naples.
“This tournament has raised more than $1.7 million over the past 27 years,” said Christopher Simoneau, FGCU Foundation executive director and the university’s vice president for advancement. “All the money goes to support academic excellence, scholarships and student success. It’s an important event that delivers a significant financial boost to the university’s mission.”
A portion of the tournament’s proceeds will be directed to establish a specific scholarship – the Officer Adam Jobbers-Miller Endowed Scholarship Fund. Fort Myers Police Officer Jobbers-Miller died July 28, 2018, as a result of injuries sustained while responding to an on-duty incident earlier in the month. The $25,000 endowed scholarship in honor of Officer Jobbers-Miller will support Florida Gulf Coast University students pursuing degrees in criminal justice. Preference for the awarding of the scholarship will be given to FGCU students who are currently serving as first responders (police officers, firefighters, EMTs or prison guards) in Florida.
“Officer Jobbers-Miller’s story had a major impact on this community, and we think this is an important way to remember him while supporting FGCU students who wish to follow his path,” Simoneau said.
The Founder’s Cup begins with a buffet luncheon at 11 a.m. at the Quail Creek clubhouse. Golfers will begin play at 1 p.m. on the club’s two championship courses. Designed by world-renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills, the Quail and Creek courses offer 36 holes of challenges for players of all skill levels. Following tournament play, golfers will enjoy an awards reception, with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
Each year, the Founder’s Cup receives support from a number of Southwest Florida’s leading companies. This year’s supporters include Wright Construction Group; United Mechanical; Maddox Construction Company; Enterprise Holdings; Service Contracting Solutions; Crowther; Wayne Wiles Floor Coverings; B&I Contractors, Inc.; Manhattan Construction (Florida), Inc.; Houchin Construction, Inc.; Estero Bay Chevrolet; and Millennium Physicians Group.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available at several levels. For more information on sponsorships, donations or registration for the 2018 Founder’s Cup, contact Angela Kunkle at (239) 745-4343.