The 2024 Community Impact Award has been awarded to Kevin Reardon, PGA! Kevin currently serves as the Golf Director at Providence Country Club in Charlotte, NC. 

Kevin is deeply committed not only to his golf facility but also to his community. In 2022, he and his wife founded the ...OliviaStrong Foundation to fight childhood cancer—a cause that is profoundly personal to him as a cancer dad. Through their efforts, they have raised nearly $450,000, supporting organizations such as St. Jude, Make-A-Wish, and Hemby Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. Kevin’s dedication has inspired many within the golf industry, including the McConnell Golf Family of Professionals, who have contributed through golf marathons and other fundraising initiatives to support childhood cancer awareness. Beyond fundraising, Kevin is passionate about educating the community on the realities of childhood cancer and advocating for better opportunities for those affected. His unwavering efforts continue to make a meaningful impact both on and off the golf course.

Congratulations, Kevin! Thank you for everything you do for the Carolinas section and the community!

The 2024 Patriot Award has been awarded to Angel Diaz, PGA! Angel serves as the Director of Instruction at Project Golf in Myrtle Beach, SC. 

As a U.S. Navy Veteran, Angel is dedicated to growing the game and removing barriers to golf through PGA HOPE. His work has had a profound impact ...on veterans, particularly in his Myrtle Beach community. Angel has led over 21 six-week PGA HOPE sessions, graduating more than 500 veterans, while training and managing a team of 17 instructors and 20 ambassadors. He also crafted the PGA HOPE curriculum and spearheaded the initiative to have May 9th declared PGA HOPE Day in South Carolina by the Lieutenant Governor. As a mentor, Angel shares his expertise with other PGA professionals looking to start their own programs. His dedication truly embodies the spirit of the PGA of America Patriot Award.

Congratulations, Angel! Thank you for everything you do for the Carolinas section and our country’s military!

The 2024 Assistant Golf Professional of the Year has been awarded to Cynthia Graham, PGA! Cynthia currently serves as the Assistant Golf Professional at The Dunes Golf and Beach Club. 

Cynthia joined The Dunes Golf and Beach Club in 1990, when few women were in the PGA of America. Over ...the years, she has taken on various roles, from managing merchandise to welcoming guests with a personal touch. Her long tenure has fostered lasting friendships with returning visitors. Beyond her club, Cynthia has been a trailblazer, serving as the first female on the CPGA Board of Directors and contributing to multiple committees. Passionate about growing the game, she leads junior and women’s clinics. She hopes her dedication inspires others to recognize the value of female professionals in the industry.

Congratulations, Cynthia! Thank you for everything you do for the Carolinas section!

The 2024 Merchandiser of the Year - Public has been awarded to Casey Cook, PGA! Casey currently serves as the Director of Retail Operations at East Coast Golf Management. 

Casey Cook believes in a two-fold philosophy, combining superior products and hiring high energy and professional ...staff trained by vendors, giving the ultimate golf experience placing the course at the forefront of the market. He is a dedicated retail professional with a passion for enhancing the golfing experience through strategic merchandising and exceptional customer service. Working alongside East Coast Golf Management, the team works together with a keen focus on offering a diverse selection of high-quality products. Casey ensures that the merchandise aligns with seasonal trends, customer needs, and the overall branding of the facility. By collaborating with top vendors and investing in high-energy staff, Casey ensures that team members receive professional training to effectively promote, display, and sell merchandise while adapting to seasonal and holiday sales trends. Through this philosophy of combining superior products with expert staff training, Casey continues to elevate the golf retail experience.

Congratulations, Casey! Thank you for everything you do for the Carolinas section!