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Kyle M. Winn

Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Kyle Winn Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the life and legacy of Kyle Winn, PGA Professional, whose leadership, compassion, and advocacy shaped countless young golfers across California. Kyle believed deeply in the power of golf to build confidence, character, and community — especially for LGBTQ+ youth seeking a place where they could belong and thrive.

This scholarship continues Kyle’s mission by providing meaningful financial support to gay and lesbian students pursuing higher education while remaining engaged in the game he loved. Through annual awards ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, the fund empowers emerging golfers to advance their academic goals, expand their opportunities, and carry forward Kyle’s vision of an inclusive, welcoming golf community.

Rooted in mentorship, diversity, and pride, the Kyle Winn Memorial Scholarship Fund ensures that Kyle’s spirit — his generosity, his courage, and his unwavering belief in young people — lives on in every recipient who steps forward to shape the future of golf.

Scholarship Details

Award Amount

Scholarships ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 annually, based on available funding and applicant qualifications.

Recipients

Up to three students may be selected each year, depending on fundraising and applicant availability.

Renewable Opportunity

Renewable Opportunity: Awards may be renewed for up to four years, provided recipients maintain eligibility and remain actively involved in golf.

Through this scholarship, Kyle’s commitment to creating opportunities for LGBTQ+ youth will continue to inspire future generations, helping students achieve their educational goals while fostering a lifelong connection to the game of golf.

Eligibility Criteria
  • Identity: Highest priority to students who identify as gay, lesbian, or LGBTQ+.
  • Age & Education Status:
    • High school seniors entering college, or
    • Current undergraduate students.
  • Golf Involvement:
    • Participation in golf through First Tee, US Kids Golf, PGA Jr League, high school golf teams, college golf teams, junior tours, PGA WORKS, or community golf programs.
    • Commitment to continuing golf involvement (competitive, instructional, volunteer, or academic).
  • Location: Priority given to applicants from California, especially the Coachella Valley and North Coast regions, though national applicants may be considered.
  • Academic Standing: Minimum GPA (e.g., 2.5 or higher).

Applicants will be evaluated on:

  • Demonstrated commitment to golf and how the sport has shaped their personal growth.
  • Leadership, sportsmanship, and community involvement, especially in LGBTQ+ spaces.
  • Financial need and ability to benefit from the scholarship.
  • Personal essay describing how Kyle’s legacy inspires their educational and golf journey.
  • Letters of recommendation (coach, teacher, mentor, or First Tee representative).
  • Completed online application form.
  • Personal essay (500–1,000 words).
  • Proof of enrollment or acceptance to an accredited college or university.
  • Transcript.
  • Golf résumé or activity summary.
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • Optional: video introduction or golf highlight reel.
  • Selection Committee:
    • Representatives from DYDC Foundation, Stonewall Golfers and Ryan Halquist (Kyle’s husband).
  • Timeline:
    • Applications open: January 1
    • Deadline: March 31
    • Review period: April
    • Award announcement: May (align with Pride Month or a Stonewall Golfers event)
  • Disbursement: Funds sent directly to the educational institution.
  • Fund Type (administered as designated funds through DYDC Foundation):
    • Annual scholarship fund or
    • Endowed fund (if long‑term sustainability is desired).
  • Donation Options:
    • One‑time gifts
    • Monthly recurring donations
    • Corporate sponsorships (PGA sections, golf brands, LGBTQ+ organizations)
    • Memorial contributions
  • Recognition:
    • Annual donor report
    • Named tiers (e.g., “Kyle’s Champions,” “Kyle’s Legacy Circle”)
    • Acknowledgment at DYDC and Stonewall Golfers events, Recipients school or First Tee location
  • Highlight Kyle’s story and contributions to First Tee and the LGBTQ+ golf community.
  • Share annual recipient stories to demonstrate impact.
  • Encourage scholarship alumni to mentor future LGBTQ+ golfers, continuing Kyle’s tradition of guidance and inclusion.
  • Annual Pro-Am Golf Tournament following Kyle Winn Memorial Rumble at the Ridge Event the first weekend in January.
  • Co-Sponsored by Stonewall Golfers and DYDC Foundation
  • 3-person Scramble Team paired with Local Pro
  • Pro Purse (Additional Corporate or Personal Sponsorships desired; DYDC to fund $10K; Stonewall Members to fund a portion-Goal of $10K)
  • Auction of Golf Course 4-somes donated by Pro’s; Golf Equipment; Travel Packages
  • Kyle Winn Leadership Award for exceptional community service.
  • Golf equipment stipend for recipients who need support to compete.  Seek Golf Manufacturers for equipment donations in Kyle’s name.
  • Mentorship program pairing recipients with PGA Professionals or Stonewall Golfers members.
  • Student Advisory Group – Select group of “Kyle’s Kids” from First Tee to provide input and help with identifying local “alliance” groups to share Kyle’s story
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