GCSAA to Host Women's Leadership Academy in Lawrence
Thirty-five turfgrass professionals will convene in Lawrence this November to participate in the fourth annual leadership program.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Golf
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The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America has selected 35 turfgrass professionals to attend its 2026 Women's Leadership Academy. The event is scheduled to take place in Lawrence from November 10 to November 12, 2026.
Why it matters
The academy aims to dismantle industry barriers and enhance internal leadership skills among participants. By fostering professional growth for women, the organization seeks to increase inclusivity within the broader turfgrass field.
This year marks the fourth annual iteration of the program. The curriculum features insights from industry experts including Passion Graham, who brings 30 years of leadership expertise, and Lori LeBard, who contributes 20 years of experience.
The players
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
The organization serves as the primary professional association for turfgrass managers and is headquartered in Lawrence.
Passion Graham
A leadership expert who will share her 30 years of professional experience with academy participants.
Lori LeBard
An experienced leader in the field who will provide educational instruction based on her 20-year career.
The details
Participants will engage in a structured educational curriculum focused on self-discovery, understanding others, effective communication, and inspiring professional growth. The academy provides these women with dedicated opportunities to build a robust network to support long-term career development.
Timeline
The Women's Leadership Academy convenes in Lawrence from Nov. 10-12, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This event follows a pattern set by the GCSAA's ongoing workforce diversification initiatives. By institutionalizing this leadership academy, the organization is actively working to reshape the demographic profile of future course superintendents and industry leaders.
The academy strengthens the professional pipeline for women, potentially changing the competitive landscape for leadership roles within turfgrass management nationwide. Participants will return to their home clubs with enhanced communication tools intended to drive operational improvements and team development.
The takeaway
The GCSAA's investment in this cohort highlights the growing emphasis on soft-skill development as a requirement for modern turfgrass management. Professionals looking to advance their careers should prioritize leadership training as a core competency alongside technical agronomic skills.
Further reading
Learn more about local industry developments by visiting the Lawrence Golf section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Golfdom.
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