The College of Southern Maryland Foundation’s Sip & Swing event drew 45 participants to Swan Point Yacht and Country Club on August 7, combining golf-inspired activities, local wine tasting, and creative pursuits to support student scholarships as part of the 34th Annual CSM Foundation Golf Classic. Sponsored by the CSM Alumni and Friends Connection and the Southern Maryland Women’s League, the gathering provided an alternative to the traditional golf tournament while contributing to overall fundraising that exceeded $80,000 for student scholarships and programs.
Participants started with a putting challenge on miniature golf-style holes, adding a playful element to the day. Following the competition, guests sampled wine from a local winery alongside cheeses, crackers, and other snacks. A lunch session led into a painting activity where attendees decorated terracotta pots and received sunflower seeds to plant later, offering a tangible memento of their support for education.
Since starting in 2015, the Sip & Swing has generated $40,566 for scholarships, reflecting the Southern Maryland Women’s League’s ongoing dedication. Andrea Sanford, president of the Southern Maryland Women’s League, emphasized the group’s focus on local access to higher education. “From the start, our goal has been to make higher education possible for students in our own backyard,” Sanford said. “We created our scholarship fund to help single parents and children of single parent households because we know how challenging it can be to cover the costs of education. Education is the key to opportunity, and we want to open that door for as many students as possible.”
The league established its scholarship with CSM in 2009, distributing $57,937 to 51 students over 16 years. Eligible recipients must live in Southern Maryland, enroll at least part-time, and submit an essay on personal hardships. The award covers tuition, fees, and books, with priority for those showing financial need, and it can renew for a second year if academic standards are met.
Brenda Lowe, the league’s Scholarship Grants Chairwoman and a Member Emeritus of the CSM Foundation Board, has managed the program from the beginning. “Watching students that we have supported walk across the graduation stage is the best reward. One thousand dollars may not sound like much to some, but to a student it can mean the difference between staying enrolled or having to pause their education,” said Lowe.
Toni Kruszka ’11, CSM Director of Development, highlighted the event’s inclusive appeal. “This event shows there is a place for everyone to get involved,” Kruszka said. “Whether out on the course or enjoying an afternoon of wine and creativity, participants of this event help support the educational journeys of CSM students. It is a fun and meaningful way to connect with our mission and make a difference.”
The Golf Classic, held annually at Swan Point Yacht and Country Club in Issue, has become a staple for community engagement, with past editions demonstrating consistent success. In 2023, the event raised over $70,000 for student programs and athletics, while the 2022 iteration generated more than $86,000. The 2021 classic brought in over $80,000, underscoring a pattern of strong support for CSM initiatives. These funds bolster scholarships that address barriers like financial hardship, enabling students to pursue degrees in fields ranging from health sciences to engineering.
CSM serves as a vital educational hub in the region, offering guided pathways for career advancement or transfer to four-year institutions. Alumni stories illustrate its impact, such as a single mother who completed her degree at age 40 while managing family responsibilities, or another graduate who founded a campus club for black engineers and aims to become an astronaut. The college’s programs cater to diverse needs, including part-time options for working adults and continuing education in areas like cooking and music.
Swan Point Yacht and Country Club, known for hosting community gatherings beyond golf, provides a scenic Potomac River backdrop that enhances events like the Sip & Swing. The venue regularly features outings, tournaments, and social activities, making it a fitting location for philanthropic efforts tied to local causes.
The Southern Maryland Women’s League extends its support through various grants and programs, including annual scholarships totaling at least $3,000 to CSM students. This aligns with broader foundation efforts, where scholarships are managed to ensure affordability, with some awards providing $500 per semester over multiple terms if recipients maintain a 3.0 GPA.
Looking ahead, the next Golf Classic is set for August 6, 2026, offering another opportunity for community members to contribute. Such events not only fund scholarships but also foster connections among alumni, supporters, and local organizations committed to educational equity.
