Scholarship Spotlight: Meredith Speer
Teeing Up Success: Meredith Speer's Journey in PGA Golf Management
Currently in her second year at Sam Houston State University, Meredith Speer is paving the way not only for herself, but for all women in the golf industry. Thanks to the support of the George Hannon Scholarship, Meredith is able to pursue a degree in PGA Golf Management and get closer to her dream of becoming a PGA of America Member.
Meredith Speer first began participating in the STPGA Junior Golf Program in 2016. During her time in the program she had 9 first-place finishes, as well as over 60 top-five finishes at tournaments all across Southern Texas.
“Growing up I was always playing in the STPGA junior golf tournaments and playing in those tournaments truly fostered the love I now have for the game of golf,” reflects Meredith Speer, a native of Cedar Park, Texas.
Through the STPGA, Meredith not only competed in tournaments, but also formed valuable connections and took lessons from PGA of America Members, including J.L. Lewis and Jennifer MacCurrach. Their guidance taught her the importance of making others feel seen and valued, and how a strong sense of self can lead to success. Inspired by their leadership, Meredith developed a passion for becoming a PGA Member herself.
“We all go through direct life-changing experiences,” Meredith recalls, “but there are also the kinds of experiences that happen around you. These experiences, if you're lucky enough to witness them, also shape the kind of person you choose to become. Through observation, I have had extraordinary experiences by witnessing some amazing people and learning from their actions.”
Meredith's journey into her future career has also afforded her valuable internship experiences at Cimarron Hills Country Club, Great Hills Country Club, and the University of Texas Golf Club. These opportunities have allowed her to acquire essential skills for her career and further expand her network of relationships with PGA Members.
For Meredith, being able to have learned from incredible LPGA and PGA Members has impacted her life in a bigger way than she would have imagined. Now being a PGA Golf Management student, she is on her way to following in the footsteps of those golf professionals who have deeply impacted her life.
Under the guidance of Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGA master professional, STPGA Vice President, and one of only 373 Master Professionals, Meredith has a unique opportunity to learn from the best, and make her mark in the golf industry.
“When I graduate, I plan to make an impact in my community by being a role model for young children. Through the game of golf, I hope to teach them the life skills I've learned and inspire them to reach their full potential.”
To learn more about the PGA REACH Southern Texas Scholarship Program, Click Here.
