Herman Sani (right) is seen talking with Gene Sarazen in August, 1950.  Sani served as IGA President in 1929.

The recipients of the 2025 Herman Sani Scholarships, presented by the Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) have been announced. Lauren Nuss, of New Hampton, Chloe Bolte, of Sumner, Tomas Rascon, of Burlington, and Emersen Motl, of Ames, will receive a four-year scholarship of $2,000 per year ($8,000 total).

Those individuals will be recognized at the Herman Sani Golf Tournament and Dinner held at Hyperion Field Club, in August.

Lauren Nuss, daughter of Marty and Carolyn Nuss , is a graduate of New Hampton High School and will be attending University of Northern Iowa to study Biochemistry on a pre-pharmacy track and play golf for the Panters.

“I am very grateful and honored to receive the 2025 Herman Sani Scholarship,” she said. “This esteemed scholarship will help me to continue my academic and golf career at the University of Northern Iowa. I am fortunate to represent the Iowa Golf Association and Mr. Sani through this scholarship.”

Chloe Bolte, daughter of Ben and Sarah Bolte, is a graduate from Sumner-Fredericksburg High School and will attend Missouri State University. Chloe plans to major Civil Engineering and Physics and will play golf in college.

“I am truly honored and grateful to be selected as a recipient of the Herman Sani Scholarship,” she said. “I’ve always admired the accomplishments and character of past recipients, many of whom have served as role models and inspired me to work hard and stay committed. Being recognized alongside them is incredibly meaningful, and I’m motivated to live up to the standard they’ve set. Thank you for your support and for believing in my potential.”

Tomas Rascon, the son of Stacey and Jim Stevens and Matt & Lindsey Rascon, is a graduate of Burlington High School and will attend Southern Illinois University Edwardsville to study Accounting and play golf.

“It is both an honor and a privilege to be a recipient of such a prestigious award and scholarship,” he said. “Golf has been an integral part of my life for as long as I can remember and has taught me self-discipline, tenacity, patience, and perseverance which will help me to succeed in life, both on and off the course. I will continue to strive to represent God, my family, my community, Iowa golf, SIUE, and Herman Sani himself with dignity, integrity, and humility.”

Emersen Motl, the daughter of Jill and Michael Motl, is a graduate of Ames High School and plans to study Professional Golf Management at the University of Nebraska (Lincoln).

“I am extremely honored to be a Herman Sani Scholarship recipient,” she said. “Golf is my passion, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to make a career in the industry by attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to study PGA Golf Management. This financial aid will help support my dream of contributing to the game of golf and advancing it in any way that I can. I am incredibly thankful to represent the amazing values exemplified by Mr. Sani and the Iowa Golf Association.”

The Herman Sani Scholarship Program was established in 1958. Herman Sani had a passion for golf and young people. Sani was the first director of the Iowa Golf Association and served the organization for over 30 years. This scholarship was created in his memory with the purpose to assist Iowa students to further their education. As of 2025, 207 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. 

Most of the scholarship money comes from the generous donations by individuals and corporate sponsors. Since 2013 the Coppola family of Norwalk has contributed $250,000 to the Herman Sani Scholarship Fund. The Iowa Golf Association and point events from around the state also make significant contributions to the fund. For more information about the scholarship visit our website at www.iowagolf.org/scholarships. 

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) congratulates the 2025 recipients of the Ann Griffel (above right) Scholarship Award: Paige Franzen, Hope Faber, Malinda Voortmann, Lydia Krueger and Lauren Nuss. Each recipient will be awarded a one-year scholarship of $2,000. Since 1963, the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award has been helping students further their education. A total of 268 students have earned the honor of receiving this prestigious scholarship.

🎓 Paige Franzen
High School: Nashua-Plainfield High School
College: Coe College
Major: Nursing
Plans to play college golf
Parents: Philip & Jamee Franzen

“To me, receiving this scholarship means that I am one step closer to achieving my dreams of becoming a nurse. Additionally, I will be continuing my golf career at Coe College and will continue to grow the game for those around me. I am truly honored to be a recipient of the Ann Griffel Scholarship.” – Paige Franzen

🎓 Hope Faber
High School: Sioux Center High School
College: Dordt University
Major: Elementary Education
Plans to play college golf
Parents: Michael & Karri Faber

“Receiving this scholarship is a huge honor. This scholarship motivates me to continue striving for excellence both on the course and in the classroom. The game of golf will always be a huge part of my life and has taught me many lessons thus far. I hope all younger girls can experience this game in the same way that I have.” – Hope Faber

🎓 Malinda Voortmann
High School: Clear Lake High School
College: Iowa State University
Majors: Computer Science & Business
Parents: Jeremy & Kathleen Voortmann

“Receiving the Ann Griffel Scholarship is an incredible honor. I have always loved golf, from playing with my family growing up to competing on my high school golf team. This game has taught me valuable lessons and has allowed me to connect with many people. Knowing this scholarship carries on Ann Griffel’s legacy of supporting women in golf makes it even more meaningful. I’m so grateful to the Iowa Golf Association Foundation for investing in my future and encouraging girls like me to continue growing through the game.” – Malinda Voortmann

🎓 Lydia Krueger
High School: Norwalk High School
College: Iowa State University
Major: Graphic Design
Parents: Aaron & Tonya Krueger

“I am honored to be chosen as a recipient for this scholarship. Golf has been a very important and influential part of my life and it is a privilege to represent such a wonderful sport and organization.” – Lydia Krueger

🎓 Lauren Nuss
High School: New Hampton High School
College: University of Northern Iowa
Major: Biochemistry (Pre-Pharmacy Track)
Plans to play college golf
Parents: Marty & Carolyn Nuss

“I am truly honored to receive the Ann Griffel Scholarship. I want to inspire the future generation to pick up golf, as it plays a significant role in my life. Additionally, I am grateful to be chosen for this scholarship to help fund my studies and golf career.” – Lauren Nuss

The Ann Griffel Scholarship Award was established in 1963 as just one $350 scholarship awarded by the Iowa Women’s Golf Association (IWGA). The award has evolved into a $2,000 scholarship awarded to multiple high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether it be a college, university or trade school.

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) was established to preserve the game and develop more programs to promote the future of golf in Iowa. The IGAF awards the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award annually. This scholarship was named after the long-time IWGA President, Ann Griffel, who started the Girls’ State Junior, Forever 39 Match Play, State Wife-Husband and the Senior Women’s Championships in her 23-year term.

Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving back. Today, December 2, you’ll have the chance to join people around the world and support a cause close to your heart. This Giving Tuesday, help the Iowa Golf Association Foundation give the gift of golf and education to a junior golfer in the State of Iowa by supporting the Iowa Golf Association Foundation’s Youth on Course and/or Scholarship Programs.

At its most basic level, Youth on Course is a program that subsidizes rounds of golf for juniors at participating courses. In 2018 Iowa became the 21st state to offer Youth on Course.  It has now extended to all 50 states.

The concept is this: A junior boy or girl age 6 to 18 can join Youth on Course for a yearly fee.  That gets them access to any participating Youth on Course facility (there are over 1,400 nationally) to play a round of golf for $5 or less.  Then the participating course receives an additional subsidy ($) for that round. To donate towards Youth on Course in Iowa visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E334279&id=14

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation also serves as host for two college scholarship programs – The Herman Sani Scholarship & the Ann Griffel Scholarship.

The Ann Griffel Scholarship was named after the long time IWGA President, Ann Griffel. Ann was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2006 to honor her contributions to the game. Since 1963, over 250 students have received this scholarship. The IGAF awards $2,000 Ann Griffel Scholarships to Iowa high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether a college, university or trade school.

The Herman Sani Scholarship was established in 1958 in memory of Herman Sani who had a passion for golf and for young people. Over 200 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. Each recipient receives $8,000 ($2,000 per year) over a consecutive four-year period.

To donate and read more about each scholarship program visit https://iowagolf.org/scholarships/

Herman Sani (right) is seen talking with Gene Sarazen in August, 1950.  Sani served as IGA President in 1929.

The recipients of the 2024 Herman Sani Scholarships, presented by the Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) have been announced. Crew Klingner, of Williamsburg, Drew DeGabriele, of Mason City, Hannah Pettitt, of Urbandale, Makenna Carlson, of Story City, will receive a four-year scholarship of $2,000 per year ($8,000 total).

Those individuals will be recognized at the Herman Sani Golf Tournament and Dinner held at Echo Valley Country Club, in August.

Crew Klingner, son of Mike and Ericka Klingner, is a graduate of Williamsburg Community High School and will be attending Central College to study Engineering.

“It is truly an honor to be a Sani scholar,” he said. “This prestigious scholarship will help me continue my academic and golf careers at Central College. I’m grateful to be in this position to carry on Mr. Sani’s legacy and give back to the game that has done so much for me.”

Drew DeGabriele, son of Bryan and Sethanne DeGabriele, is a graduate from Mason City High School and will attend North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) for two years and then transfer to a 4-year university to complete my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Drew plans to major in either sports statistics or math education and coaching.

“As a 2024 Herman Sani Scholar, it means a great deal to me that I will get to further my education in hopes of serving as a leader and making a lasting impact on my community while also pursuing my professional goals,” he said. “I am thankful for the opportunity to represent the values and passion for golf that Mr. Sani and the scholarship program have exemplified.”

Hannah Pettitt, the daughter of Nate and Sarah Pettitt, is a graduate of Waukee Northwest High School and will attend South Dakota State University to study Biochemistry.

“I am very grateful and honored to be a recipient of the Herman Sani Scholarship,” she said. “As I attend South Dakota State next year this additional financial support will help me accomplish my ambitious goals in the classroom and on the course. I am excited to represent the Iowa Golf Association and Mr. Sani through this impressive scholarship.”

Makenna Carlson, the daughter of Michaela and Shane Carlson, is a graduate of Roland-Story High School and plans to study Professional Golf Management at the University of Nebraska (Lincoln).

“I am deeply honored to receive the Herman Sani Scholarship,” she said. “Growing up in the world of golf, I have been fortunate to learn from some of the best in the game. My passion for golf has always been clear — I’ve long envisioned it as my career. The opportunity provided by the University of Nebraska Lincoln for golfers like myself is truly incredible. I am eager to share my enthusiasm for the game and educate others about its remarkable aspects and his scholarship will help make this dream a reality.”

The Herman Sani Scholarship Program was established in 1958. Herman Sani had a passion for golf and young people. Sani was the first director of the Iowa Golf Association and served the organization for over 30 years. This scholarship was created in his memory with the purpose to assist Iowa students to further their education. As of 2024, 203 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. 

Most of the scholarship money comes from the generous donations by individuals and corporate sponsors. Since 2013 the Coppola family of Norwalk has contributed $250,000 to the Herman Sani Scholarship Fund. The Iowa Golf Association and point events from around the state also make significant contributions to the fund. For more information about the scholarship visit our website at www.iowagolf.org/scholarships. 

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) congratulates the 2024 recipients of the Ann Griffel (above right) Scholarship Award: Isabella Pettersen, Brenna Bodensteiner, Olivia Axmear, Avery Lichter, and Malaina Elliott. Each recipient will be awarded a one-year scholarship of $2,000. Since 1963, the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award has been helping students further their education. A total of 263 students have earned the honor of receiving this prestigious scholarship.

Isabella Pettersen, of North Liberty, is the daughter of Mike and Debbi Pettersen and plans to attend the University of Northern Iowa to major in business.

“Receiving this scholarship reinforces my commitment to persevering and growing the game of golf, especially for underrepresented athletes,” she said. “I am truly honored and humbled to be chosen for this scholarship.”

Brenna Bodensteiner, of Waverly, is the daughter of Greg and Amy Bodensteiner. She plans to play basketball and golf at Wartburg College while majoring in kinesiology.

“To me, receiving this scholarship means I am honored to be selected as a leader in the next generation of golf,” she said. “The sport of golf is so mentally challenging and difficult. However, it is also extremely fun. I want next generations to have the opportunity to experience the game the same way I have. Additionally, I am thankful to receive money to help me pay for my education and continue golf career.”

Olivia Axmear, of Nevada, is the daughter of Elaine and Will Axmear. She will attend the University of Dubuque and major in human health science.

“Receiving this scholarship is a huge honor,” she said. “The sport of golf has become such a huge part of my life and I am grateful that I was chosen to represent this scholarship and organization. I hope to continue to inspire younger girls to join the game of golf so they can experience the same impact the sport has had for me.”

Avery Lichter, of Algona, is the daughter of Thad and Mindy Lichter and plans to attend Iowa State University to study Landscape Architecture

“Receiving this scholarship is such a great honor and signifies a tremendous opportunity for personal and academic growth,” she said. “It represents not only financial support but also a vote of confidence in my potential to make a meaningful impact within my studies at Iowa State.”

Malaina Elliott, of Dallas Center, is the daughter of Mindy and Jason Elliott. She plan to attend the University of Iowa to major in English with a minors in sports studies and Spanish.

“Receiving this scholarship is an honor, as it honors a woman who has made a great impact on not only golf but also women’s sports,” she said. “With that being said this scholarship is amazing as it allows me to continue my educational pursuits and goals of becoming an advocate for female athletes while also honoring a remarkable female athlete.”

The Ann Griffel Scholarship Award was established in 1963 as just one $350 scholarship awarded by the Iowa Women’s Golf Association (IWGA). The award has evolved into a $2,000 scholarship awarded to multiple high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether it be a college, university or trade school.

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) was established to preserve the game and develop more programs to promote the future of golf in Iowa. The IGAF awards the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award annually. This scholarship was named after the long-time IWGA President, Ann Griffel, who started the Girls’ State Junior, Forever 39 Match Play, State Wife-Husband and the Senior Women’s Championships in her 23-year term.

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) congratulates the 2023 recipients of the Ann Griffel (above right) Scholarship Award: Alexa Poppen, Emma Stock, Laura Klaessy, Maura Peters and Addison Berg. Each recipient will be awarded a one-year scholarship of $2,000. Since 1963, the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award has been helping students further their education. A total of 258 students have earned the honor of receiving this prestigious scholarship.

Alexa Poppen, of West Branch, is the daughter of Kami and Dave Poppen and plans to attend the University of Iowa to major in Management and Finance.

“I am grateful to have received this scholarship. I believe golf is a great way to connect with others and I look forward to playing the game for many years,” she said.

Emma Smock, of Oelwein, is the daughter of Todd and Deena Smock and will attend Wartburg College on the Pre-Physical Therapy track.

“I am very thankful and honored to receive this scholarship. The game of golf has taught me to be patient and relax in more than just golf but my everyday life in general. Having a few setbacks but finishing strong is another thing that golf has brought me. I have gained much knowledge and mental toughness for anything brought my way,” she said.

Laura Klaessy, of Grimes, is the daughter of John and Sara Klaessy and will study Elementary Education at Simpson College.

“Ann Griffel was an inspiration to many young women golfers, and it is a great honor for me to be a recipient of the Ann Griffel Scholarship. Golf has taught me to become mentally tough and become a student of the game and was an important part of my high school career. I look forward to continuing to play the game at Simpson College next fall,” she said.

Maura Peters, of Bettendorf, is the daughter of Benjamin and Jennifer Peters. She will be attending the University of Iowa to play on the women’s golf team and study biomedical engineering.

“I am so grateful to have been chosen as one of the 2023 Ann Griffel Scholarship recipients. The game of golf has helped mold me into the person I am today, teaching me all sorts of valuable lessons. I learned to problem solve, manage my emotions, be patient and most importantly, positive. I am so happy to have chosen a sport and hobby that has allowed me to form so many new relationships and friendships, and I cannot wait to immerse myself in this incredible game for the rest of my life,” she said.

Addison Berg, of Swisher, is the daughter of Aaron and Deana Berg. She will be attending the University of Northern Iowa with an undecided major at this time. She will also be a member of the golf team.

“Golf has been important to me from an early age. It has taught me so many important lessons such a as mental toughness. Golf is so unique because your always competing with yourself. You have to be able to put bad shots behind you, and you can’t play defense. You just have to go out and play the best you can every time,” she said.

The Ann Griffel Scholarship Award was established in 1963 as just one $350 scholarship awarded by the Iowa Women’s Golf Association (IWGA). The award has evolved into a $2,000 scholarship awarded to multiple high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether it be a college, university or trade school.

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) was established to preserve the game and develop more programs to promote the future of golf in Iowa. The IGAF awards the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award annually. This scholarship was named after the long-time IWGA President, Ann Griffel, who started the Girls’ State Junior, Forever 39 Match Play, State Wife-Husband and the Senior Women’s Championships in her 23-year term.

Herman Sani (right) is seen talking with Gene Sarazen in August, 1950.  Sani served as IGA President in 1929.

The recipients of the 2023 Herman Sani Scholarships, presented by the Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) have been announced. Brody Gilkison, of Cedar Rapids, Colby Carlson, of Des Moines, Isabella Boyle, of Sioux City, and Jackson Overton, of Indianola, will receive a four-year scholarship of $2,000 per year ($8,000 total).

Those individuals will be recognized at the Herman Sani Golf Tournament and Dinner held at Hyperion Field Club, Johnston, in August.

Brody Gilkison, son of Charles and Kyra Gilkison, is a graduate of John F. Kennedy Senior High School and will be attending Yale University in the fall as an Ethics, Politics, and Economics major.

“I am honored to receive the Herman Sani Scholarship,” he said.  “Giving back to the game that has given us so much is very important to me, so to be chosen as a scholarship recipient is very humbling and motivates me to continue to share my passion for golf as well as carrying on Mr. Sani’s legacy.”

Colby Carlson, son of Jamie and Kevin Carlson, is a graduate of Waukee Northwest High School and plans to double major in Professional Golf Management and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“I am humbled and honored to be selected for the Herman Sani Scholarship,” he said. “From a young age, golf has always been a big part of my life. There have been many highs and many hard lessons learned. To be selected as a Herman Sani scholar is another incredible high that this game of golf has provided me. I am very grateful for the people that make these opportunities possible. This scholarship aid will allow me to focus more on my schoolwork with the goal to work in the golf industry, I hope to be able to repay and give back what the game of golf has given me.”

Isabella Boyle, daughter of Keri and Dustin Boyle, is a graduate of East High School and will be attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the PGA Golf Management program.

“I am honored to be a recipient of the Herman Sani Scholarship,” she said. “With the aid of this scholarship I will be able to cover additional tuition costs for my program, and focus solely on golf. I am excited to see where UNL and the PGA Golf Management Program will take me. It is a great opportunity to be selected for this prestigious scholarship and I look forward to seeing where I end up in the golf industry.”

Jackson Overton, son of Derek and Jennifer Overton, is a graduate of Indianola High School and will be attending Loyola University Chicago in the fall.

“It’s an honor to receive the Herman Sani Scholarship Award,” he said. “This scholarship will benefit my academic and athletic career at Loyola University Chicago. For as long as I can remember golf has been a huge part of my life, this wonderful game has taught me many life lessons and built countless relationships. As a Sani Scholar, I look forward to a future closely tied to the game of golf, where I can positively impact people around me in the same ways the game has done for me.”

The Herman Sani Scholarship Program was established in 1958. Herman Sani had a passion for golf and young people. Sani was the first director of the Iowa Golf Association and served the organization for over 30 years. This scholarship was created in his memory with the purpose to assist Iowa students to further their education. As of 2023, 199 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. 

Most of the scholarship money comes from the generous donations by individuals and corporate sponsors. Since 2013 the Coppola family of Norwalk has contributed $250,000 to the Herman Sani Scholarship Fund. The Iowa Golf Association and point events from around the state also make significant contributions to the fund. For more information about the scholarship visit our website at www.iowagolf.org/scholarships. 

Giving Tuesday is a global day of giving back. Today, November 29, you’ll have the chance to join people around the world and support a cause close to your heart. This Giving Tuesday, help the Iowa Golf Association Foundation give the gift of golf and education to a junior golfer in the State of Iowa by supporting the Iowa Golf Association Foundation’s Youth on Course and/or Scholarship Programs.

At its most basic level, Youth on Course is a program that subsidizes rounds of golf for juniors at participating courses. In 2018 Iowa became the 21st state to offer Youth on Course.  It has now extended to all 50 states.

The concept is this: A junior boy or girl age 6 to 18 can join Youth on Course for a $15 yearly fee.  That gets them access to any participating Youth on Course facility (there are over 1,400 nationally) to play a round of golf for $5 or less.  Then the participating course receives an additional subsidy ($) for that round. To donate towards Youth on Course in Iowa visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E334279&id=14

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation also serves as host for two college scholarship programs – The Herman Sani Scholarship & the Ann Griffel Scholarship.

The Ann Griffel Scholarship was named after the long time IWGA President, Ann Griffel. Ann was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2006 to honor her contributions to the game. Since 1963, 263 students have received this scholarship. The IGAF awards $2,000 Ann Griffel Scholarships to Iowa high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether a college, university or trade school.

The Herman Sani Scholarship was established in 1958 in memory of Herman Sani who had a passion for golf and for young people. As of 2021, 199 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. Each recipient receives $8,000 ($2,000 per year) over a consecutive four-year period.

To donate and read more about each scholarship program visit https://iowagolf.org/scholarships/

Golf is a game of a lifetime. It takes us to beautiful places, provides us with exercise, helps instill values such as honesty, integrity, respect and sportsmanship – things that have served us all well in the game of life. As you think about making a donation, I ask that you reflect on what golf has done for you, where it has taken you, who you have met through the game, and how much you would like for a young boy or girl to have that same experience and opportunity.

The creation of Golf House Iowa will provide a permanent home to preserve, promote, and protect the game of golf in our great state. We plan to include the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, a space for educating golfers, areas to promote and teach the game, and office space for the Iowa Golf Association, IGA Foundation, Iowa Golf Course Superintendents Association and First Tee – Central Iowa.

For more information and to donate towards Golf House Iowa visit https://iowagolf.org/golfhouseiowa/

Herman Sani (right) is seen talking with Gene Sarazen in August, 1950.  Sani served as IGA President in 1929.

The recipients of the 2022 Herman Sani Scholarships, presented by the Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) have been announced. Nora Carlson, of Humboldt, John Cahalan, of West Des Moines, Derek Peng, of Ames and Ashton Martens, of Grundy Center, will receive a four-year scholarship of $2,000 per year ($8,000 total). Those individuals will be recognized at the Herman Sani Golf Tournament and Dinner held at Echo Valley Country Club, Norwalk, in August.

Nora Carlson, the daughter of Tom and Sara Carlson, is a graduate of Humboldt High School and will be attending Iowa State University in the fall to study Kinesiology on an Occupational Therapy track.

“I am honored and humbled to receive the Herman Sani Scholarship. I am grateful to everyone who makes this scholarship possible. This scholarship aids financially helping me focus more on my coursework. I am thankful for the opportunities given to me through the game of golf and for the lessons which I have learned through the game. I hope to always be a representative of characteristics which embody the game of golf and the core values of the Herman Sani Scholarship; honesty, humility, and perseverance.”

John Cahalan, the son of Steve and Gabrielle Cahalan, is a graduate of Dowling Catholic High School and has been accepted to the University of Iowa, SMU, Luther and St. Olaf College and plans to double major in Business Administration and Music Performance.  

“To be selected as a Herman Sani Scholar is an incredible honor. It was impactful to see how many successful people have been chosen, whether it be a success in golf or a career. I am pretty blessed to be included in this remarkable history. Being a Sani Scholar will always tie me back to the great game of golf, a game that has led to lifelong friendships and memories are just as important as any accomplishments or successes. I am very thankful to be selected and am looking forward to hopefully adding to the incredible legacy of Herman Sani.”

Derek Peng, the son of Edward and Natalia Peng, is a graduate of Ames High School and has been accepted to Georgetown University, UNC Chapel Hill, Wake Forest University, NC State University, Iowa State University and the University of Iowa and plans to study economics or mechanical engineering. 

“Golf has been a huge part of my life since a very young age. Besides the challenge and the fun, I’ve learned that golf is a wonderful opportunity to have a positive impact in my community. I’m honored to receive the Herman Sani Scholarship and look forward to continuing to share my passions with the people around me.”

Ashton Martens, the son of Steven and Patti Martens, is a graduate of Grundy Center and will be attending Upper Iowa University in the fall to play golf and study business or marketing. 

“To be selected as a Herman Sani Scholar is truly a dream come true. Golf has always played a very important role in my life and will continue to play a role in my future. The game itself has taught me many life lessons, on and off the course. This scholarship will help me pursue my Marketing degree while playing golf at Upper Iowa University over the next four years. I am truly honored and blessed to be selected as a recipient of such a prestigious scholarship.”

The Herman Sani Scholarship Program was established in 1958. Herman Sani had a passion for golf and young people. Sani was the first director of the Iowa Golf Association and served the organization for over 30 years. This scholarship was created in his memory with the purpose to assist Iowa students to further their education. As of 2022, 195 college-bound students have been awarded this four-year scholarship. 

Most of the scholarship money comes from the generous donations by individuals and corporate sponsors. Since 2013 the Coppola family of Norwalk has contributed $250,000 to the Herman Sani Scholarship Fund. The Iowa Golf Association and point events from around the state also make significant contributions to the fund. For more information about the scholarship visit our website at www.iowagolf.org/scholarships. 

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) is excited to announce the 2022 recipients of the Ann Griffel (pictured above right with Jacque Fladoos) Scholarship Award. Nora Carlson, Madison Craig, Alexa Garvin, Amber Henson and Emma Davidson are receiving a one-year scholarship of $2,000.

Since 1963, the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award has been helping students further their education. A total of 253 students have earned the honor of receiving this prestigious scholarship.

Nora Carlson, of Humboldt, is the daughter of Tom and Sara Carlson and will be attending Iowa State University in the fall to study Kinesiology on an Occupational Therapy track.

“To me, the game of golf has meant demonstrating solid time management, strong work ethic and commitment; strengthening my mental toughness; and forming relationships and memories,” Carlson shared. “The game of golf has helped me build strong good habits or virtues. Becoming a better golfer doesn’t happen overnight. For the past eight years, I have worked to use my time wisely and effectively so that I give myself the best opportunity for success.”

Madison Craig, of Solon, is the daughter of Ray and Beth Craig and will be attending Central College in the fall to study Biology on the Pre-Med Track.

“The game of golf has enabled me to further refine my ability to focus and ability to remain calm even in difficult situations on the golf course. These are all important skills that I will be able to use in my future as a college student or working as a doctor,” said Craig. “Golf has been a very enjoyable and rewarding sport for me. I am certain golf will play a vital role in my future, especially as a medical professional. I’m sure there will be many opportunities to make acquaintances or even collaborate with colleagues over a game of golf.”

Amber Henson, of Marshalltown, is the daughter of Mark and Andrea Henson and will be attending Drake University in the fall to study Finance and Data Analytics.

“Golf has been part of my life very early on and over the years has taught me many things,” Henson said. “My dad has always said that ‘the biggest distance in golf is between my ears’. Golf has taught me to control my emotions, think logically, to practice diligently, to move on past adverse situations and most importantly, to acknowledge when others have done well.”

Alexa Garvin, of Wilton, is the daughter of Gregg and Kelly Garvin and will be attending St. Ambrose University in the fall for Nursing. Garvin earned her CNA verification this summer.

“Golf has taught me the importance of patience, critical thinking, determination and controlling my emotions. It allows me to compete as an individual and as part of a team,” Garvin shared. “Golf unifies by bringing people together from all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. I find a sense of peace from external distractions in my life while on the course.”

Emma Davidson, of Northwood, is the daughter of Ron and Michelle Davidson and will be attending Iowa State University in the fall to double major in Agronomy and Seed Science.

“In sports the toughest competitor anyone faces is themselves,” stated Davidson. “It is hard to stay positive when things are not going the way they should. Through golf I have been able to learn how to stay mentally tough and positive to finish a round to the best of my ability. I am a person who wants results right away, but I have learned it takes time. It took several hours a day to improve my game. I could not give up on myself, I had to keep pushing through. It takes time and hard work to achieve success, so stay patient and stay diligent.”

The Ann Griffel Scholarship Award was established in 1963 as just one $350 scholarship awarded by the Iowa Women’s Golf Association (IWGA). The award has evolved into a $2,000 scholarship awarded to multiple high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether it be a college, university or trade school.

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) was established to preserve the game and develop more programs to promote the future of golf in Iowa. The IGAF awards the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award annually. This scholarship was named after the long-time IWGA President, Ann Griffel, who started the Girls’ State Junior, Forever 39 Match Play, State Wife-Husband and the Senior Women’s Championships in her 23-year term.