Colorado PGA Welcomes PGA WORKS Fellow, Davyon Collins

Davyon Collins joins the Colorado Section of the PGA of America as the Section’s second-ever PGA WORKS Fellow

PGA WORKS is a strategic initiative designed to diversify the golf industry’s workforce. The PGA WORKS Fellowship is a program that offers access to individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain experience in all facets of the golf industry. The Fellowship provides the opportunity for a one-year, paid immersion in the Colorado PGA Section headquarters in Larkspur, Colorado. This entry-level employment experience offers a taste of what a career in the golf industry can provide. Collins will support PGA REACH Colorado charitable programs within the Foundation’s Youth, Military, and Inclusion Pillars. These programs include the Colorado PGA Junior Tour, PGA Jr. League, Golf in Schools, Drive, Chip & Putt, and PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere).

CEO and Executive Director Steven Bartkowski commented, "Davyon comes to PGA REACH Colorado with a strong background in operations and youth sports. We are excited to have him join our team as our second-ever PGA Works Fellow and believe he will make a strong positive impact in our growth of the game programming and inclusion efforts.”

Before moving to Colorado, Collins worked for the Houston Texans in Community Development and Texas Legends in Game Day Operations and Community Engagement. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Dallas Christian College, where he also played basketball. Collins was a four-year Academic All-American and was voted team captain during his senior season. That season, his team made a run to the Elite 8 in the NCAA Division II National Tournament, where they finished fifth in the nation. Collins graduated Cum Laude and received the Lucille L. Perkins Award, given to the most well-prepared student within the Business Department. Following DCC, Collins spent two seasons as a Graduate Assistant for the Dallas Baptist University Men’s Basketball program, while simultaneously earning his MBA in Project Management.

Growing up playing basketball and participating in youth camps planted the roots for Collins’ passion for community development and outreach. He believes his purpose in life is to give back to communities in a similar way as others did for him in his youth.

“I believe the game of golf has the potential to influence the next generation on and off the green. In addition, the game of golf provides an avenue for players of different ethnicities, gender, and ages to come together and build relationships with the game at the center. Being a part of a team that is helping shape the sport and culture of golf into an industry that reflects the rest of the world is a mission that I can get behind. Inclusion and diversity are critical to me because they shape our youth's future.”

Collins shared that his journey with basketball changed his life and allowed him to pursue an MBA. The same life-changing effects can happen here in Colorado through our formative Junior Golf Programs. Golf can shape and transform lives for the better, for generations to come.

In 2021, Elizabeth Whan was hired as the first-ever PGA WORKS Fellow of PGA REACH Colorado. Elizabeth certainly took advantage of this grant program, which is fully funded by the charitable arm of the Colorado PGA Section, as she has since been hired on as a full-time employee of the Colorado PGA as the Communications and Digital Content Coordinator.

For more information on: PGA REACH Colorado

For more information on: PGA WORKS

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Steve VanDyke, PGA, Elected as President of Colorado PGA’s West Chapter, Alongside Newly Appointed At-Large Directors

By Steven Bartowski • 19 Apr, 2024

Larkspur, CO - The West Chapter of the Colorado Professional Golfers' Association (COPGA) proudly announces the election of Steve VanDyke, PGA, as its newest President, alongside the appointment of esteemed At-Large Directors. PGA of America Golf Professional Steve VanDyke brings a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to the West Chapter PGA of America Golf Professionals and Associates, making him an ideal candidate to lead the West Chapter. With an almost 20-year career as a Class A PGA of America Golf Professional and a passion for the sport that shines through in every endeavor, VanDyke is poised to steer the Colorado PGA West Chapter toward a future marked by excellence. "It is an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the West Chapter PGA," said Steve VanDyke, PGA. "I am deeply committed to advancing the interests of our members, promoting the growth of golf at all levels, and fostering a vibrant and supportive community within the region. Together with my fellow directors and the entire West Chapter membership, I look forward to charting a course that ensures the continued success and vitality of the West Chapter PGA." Joining President VanDyke in this new chapter of leadership is a group of distinguished At-Large Directors whose expertise and vision will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the Colorado PGA West Chapter. These directors bring diverse perspectives, extensive industry knowledge, and a shared commitment to advancing the golf industry and enhancing the professional lives of PGA of America Golf Professionals. The newly appointed At-Large Directors are: Cody Hasten, PGA Head Professional at Haymaker Golf Course Jim Pratt, PGA General Manager at Aspen Glen Golf Club (beginning a new term) Continuing with their At-Large Director roles are: Loren Forney, PGA Member Trey Johnson, PGA Assistant Professional at Vail Golf Club Mark Matz, PGA Head Professional at Beaver Creek Golf Club Tim Tafoya, PGA Director of Golf at Tiarado Golf Course We would like to thank Luke Brosterhous, PGA, who served selflessly as West Chapter President before VanDyke. During his term, Luke was instrumental in raising the standards for education and the West Chapter Cup Matches. Luke will now slide into the Honorary President role on the Board. Their combined talents and dedication to the principles of the Colorado PGA will undoubtedly enrich the West Chapter's initiatives and programs, benefitting both members and the broader golfing community. "We are thrilled to welcome Steve VanDyke as our new West Chapter President and to introduce our esteemed At-Large Directors," said Cathy Matthews-Kane, PGA President of the Colorado PGA Section. "Under their leadership, we are confident that the West Chapter PGA will continue to thrive and uphold its legacy as a beacon of excellence for the members of the chapter. We are also excited to welcome Mr. VanDyke to the Section Board of Directors as West Chapter President." For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Steven Bartkowski CEO/Executive Director Colorado PGA Section PGA REACH Colorado Foundation 303.996.1593 sbartkowski@pgahq.com About the Colorado PGA West Chapter: The West Chapter of the Colorado PGA encompasses those Members and Associates that work west of the Continental Divide in the state of Colorado. The West Chapter is made up of approximately 100 Members and Associates with over 50 facilities being located in the Chapter. The West Chapter is governed by Officers elected by the Chapter Membership. The Core Purpose of the Chapter is to deliver the member programs and services of the Colorado PGA on the Western Slope. The West Chapter provides continuing education, pro-only, and pro-am tournaments.