EGG HARBOR CITY - For Tatiana Shukovsky, a Stockton University economics major from Estell Manor, the scholarships she received from the university’s foundation last spring were life changing.
“This past January, I had to invest thousands of dollars into a new pair of hearing aids, which wiped out my savings meant for tuition,” she shared with attendees of the Stockton University Foundation’s Golf Classic. “When I found out I was awarded two scholarships, I was beyond elated. The funds covered much of my tuition this year, lifting a huge burden off my family.”
Shukovsky’s story underscored the true impact of the annual Golf Classic held Thursday, Sept. 19 at Renault Winery and Resort. The event brought together alumni, community members and supporters, all committed to helping students like Shukovsky succeed.
This year’s Golf Classic introduced a new format with a morning “Early Bird Flight” and an “Afternoon Aces Flight.” Both groups came together at lunch for the Putt for Prizes contest, Tito’s Spirit Grab and a 50/50 raffle. With 175 golfers participating, the event raised more than $95,000 to support scholarships and initiatives that help students overcome challenges and complete their degrees.
“The Golf Classic is more than just a tradition, it’s a lifeline for our students,” said Dan Nugent, Stockton’s vice president of Advancement and the executive director of the Foundation. “This year’s new format and venue brought renewed energy to the event, and we’re deeply grateful for the community’s generosity.”
Golfers of all skill levels competed in Men's and Women's Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive and three Hole-in-One Challenges. Proceeds from the event contribute to more than $1 million in scholarships awarded annually, as well as vital student initiatives supported by the Stockton Fund and the Stockton University Foundation.
Sponsors of the Golf Classic include Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters and Local 255; Fiduciary Trust International; Glenn Insurance Inc.; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 351; Marathon Engineering & Environmental Services Inc.; Pennoni; Atlantic County Utilities Authority; Chartwells Higher Education; Local Union 322 Plumbers & Pipefitters; Pepsi; SOSH Architects; and Tito's Handmade Vodka.
For more information on how to support the Stockton University Foundation, visit stockton.edu/foundation.