The Scholars’ Cup at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club experienced another record-breaking year in 2024. Thanks to your generosity and the support of sponsors from the community, the Cup’s Community Impact Fund grew by almost $220,000.

During May, Quail members personally awarded scholarship certificates to 13 high school seniors. Eighteen existing Scholars successfully renewed a scholarship for the 2025-26 academic year. The 31 scholarships totaled $141,500.

The Scholars’ Cup originated when long time Quail member, Wayne Sargent, wanted to leave a modest educational legacy. He pledged $1,000 per year for five years to award two annual scholarships. He encouraged his fellow members to compete in an annual golf tournament to raise additional scholarship funds. The first scholarship was awarded in 2009.

Since then, the program has awarded 153 scholarships valued at over $600,000 to 89 students from throughout Monterey County. Many of the recipients are the first member of their family to attend college.

The qualification criteria for students are financial need, academic performance, leadership and community service and involvement in golf. The scholarship funds are donated by members of Quail and community sponsors who participate in a two-day golf tournament every November.

The Scholars’ Cup funds a student through the First Tee Pay It Forward Scholarship & Mentoring Program at California State University Monterey Bay. Support of technical and vocational education was added in 2022 with an annual grant to Rancho Cielo Youth Campus in Salinas.

The impact that the Scholarship Program has had on the recipients is life changing. Here is what the scholars are saying:

• “This scholarship is making my education possible and is so worthwhile. Hope you continue so other students can do what is needed to make change in the world.” Marcus, University of Pennsylvania

• “Thank you to everyone who support this scholarship. Without it I probably would be struggling financially. Now it is helping me accomplish my educational goals.” Ana, Hartnell College

• “Thank you for supporting me during my entire academic path. It helped me a lot and I am beyond blessed to have you supporting me this entire way.” Yamilet, graduate of UC Merced

The 2025 Scholars’ Cup tournament will be held November 7-9. Donations to the Scholars’ Cup are tax deductible and can be made throughout the year at Community Foundation for Monterey County www.cfmco.org.