The Congaree Foundation welcomed the 2024 Class of Congaree Global Golf Initiative (CGGI) this summer. In the CGGI’s eighth year, the initiative hosted its largest class ever with 56 talented and deserving young people.
This year’s class saw participants join from 14 states and 13 countries including Argentina, Canada, Ireland, Kenya, Latvia, Paraguay, Scotland, South Africa, Trinidad & Tobago, UAE, and Venezuela. Participants from North and South America were hosted at Congaree Golf Club, while participants from Europe, Africa, and Asia were hosted at Archerfield Links in Scotland.
The additional week of programming in Scotland breaks down transportation barriers for international students, allowing an additional 16 students from 12 countries to attend, this year.
Students begin their journey with CGGI during a weeklong camp where they are introduced to the Congaree team of academic and athletic advisors who work with each student to develop personalized plans to identify and realize their dreams for college, on and off the course.
The experience broadened horizons for Gordon Sillett, a student from Limerick, Ireland.
“CGGI is the greatest week I’ve ever had in my life,” Gordon said. “This experience has opened up a lot of possibilities for me that I didn’t think could be possible”.
Throughout the week, students gain insight into the college recruitment and application processes, while learning test-taking strategies, resume building and communication skills.
These elements of the camp were particularly meaningful to Adeline Bokkes from Tustin, CA.
“This experience opened a lot of doors I thought were closed regarding my future,” Adeline said. “I feel a lot more prepared for applying to college and I feel a lot more confident in my abilities”.
The camp week is just the start of each student’s time with CGGI, as each student receives ongoing support throughout their college and early careers. Students have access to a network of now 230 fellow students, partners who share Congaree’s vision, and Congaree Ambassadors who serve as mentors and embrace Congaree’s philanthropic mission.
Tatyana Smith from Pikeville, MD summed up the impact that the larger CGGI program has had for her.
“I feel more confident and excited about my future,” Tatyana said. “CGGI has really helped ease the anxiety of the college process and provides stability at a time when things can get complicated.”
You can learn more about the Congaree Foundation and how to support its mission: https://www.congareefoundation.org/how-to-help/
