Swan Point Yacht and Country Club in Issue hosted the College of Southern Maryland Foundation’s 34th Annual Golf Classic on August 7, drawing 144 golfers and additional participants to support scholarships and programs. The sold-out event generated more than $80,000, funds directed toward aiding students in Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. Organizers highlighted the day’s mix of competition and community engagement, with activities including 18 holes of golf, raffles, contests and meals.
The tournament featured a morning tee-off for 36 foursomes, followed by an afternoon Sip & Swing session for 45 attendees. That portion combined a putting challenge with wine tastings, food pairings and terracotta pot painting. More than 25 sponsors contributed, ensuring proceeds went straight to student support.
CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson addressed participants before play began. “This tournament is one of our most beloved traditions at CSM, and the best golf event in Southern Maryland thanks to our incredible community partners, sponsors, and friends,” she said. “Your support goes beyond the greens, making a real impact in the lives of our students. Because of events like this, the CSM Foundation awarded more than $1 million in scholarships to 918 students last year. That is life changing.”
Samantha Stratchko, a 2018 CSM graduate and chair of the foundation board, expressed appreciation for ongoing involvement. “Through your generosity, this tournament has raised more than $1.5 million over the years for scholarships and programs,” she said. Stratchko, who works as assistant vice president and portfolio manager at Shore United Bank in Prince Frederick, joined the board in 2020 and became chair in 2025. “CSM has been a cornerstone in the success stories of thousands of students over the years. Being part of the Foundation’s mission to provide access, momentum, and mobility for students brings me immense joy,” she added.
Spotlighting scholarship effects, the event showcased Brandon Rollins, an engineering major and soccer goalkeeper for the Hawks men’s team. With a 3.37 GPA, Rollins received the Danny Williams ’68 Scholarship, one of three awarded. “Receiving this scholarship has relieved a huge financial burden and allowed me to focus on both my academics and athletics,” he said. “It has made it possible for me to pursue my education and my sport at a high level, while staying close to home and benefiting from the one-on-one support of my professors. I am grateful for the opportunity to build a strong future beyond the field, and I know none of this would be possible without the generosity of our supporters.”
Student volunteers from CSM’s volleyball, golf, women’s basketball and softball teams assisted throughout the day. The softball squad, recent Maryland JUCO champions, exemplified beneficiaries of such funding. At the evening awards, Ted Harwood, a foundation board member and trustee emeritus, announced winners in categories like putting contest, longest drive, closest to the pin and straightest drive, plus raffles. Harwood, chair for three years, received recognition. “Ted has led this tournament with heart, humor, and Hawk pride,” Wilson said while presenting a framed photo collage. “On behalf of the entire CSM family, thank you, Ted. You have truly left your mark.”
The CSM Golf Classic underscores the foundation’s broader efforts to bolster education in Southern Maryland. Established in 1970 as the college’s nonprofit arm, the foundation has distributed over $9 million in scholarships and program support in the past decade. It typically awards around 813 scholarships each year, helping students save an average of $31,000 by completing initial college years at CSM. These resources promote access and upward mobility, aligning with the college’s mission to enhance lives through high-quality instruction.
CSM operates campuses in La Plata, Hughesville, Leonardtown and Prince Frederick, serving the tri-county area with programs in fields like engineering and athletics. Partnerships, such as with the Greater Waldorf Jaycees, have extended impact; in 2024, they jointly provided scholarships to 16 CSM students, part of a 25-year collaboration totaling over $1.3 million projected for two decades. Such initiatives reflect community investment in local talent.
The foundation’s fundraising, including the CSM Golf Classic, addresses barriers for residents pursuing higher education. Donors enable scholarships covering tuition, fees and books, often for specific needs like single-parent households. Over time, these efforts have supported thousands, fostering economic growth in Southern Maryland through skilled graduates.
Photos from the CSM Golf Classic and Sip & Swing are available online. Details on supporting scholarships appear on the foundation’s site. Next year’s CSM Golf Classic is set for August 6, 2026.
CSM’s role in Southern Maryland dates to its founding, evolving to meet regional needs with inclusive, student-centered approaches. Values like equity and innovation guide operations, connecting education to community progress. Events like the CSM Golf Classic not only raise funds but also build networks among alumni, employees and locals committed to student success.
