Eight Dallas ISD Seniors Receive Deloitte / NTPGA Fairway to Success Scholarships

Molly Rawlins • June 6, 2023

> Educational program tops $2.2 million in awards

> Four-year University of North Texas at Dallas scholarship awarded

> Four-year University of Texas at Arlington scholarship awarded

DALLAS, TX – Today, Deloitte, the Northern Texas PGA (NTPGA) and United Way celebrated the eight recipients of this year’s Deloitte/NTPGA Fairway to Success scholarships, a program that has now awarded more than $2.2 million to local students.

 

Cithlaly Crispin, Shane Davis, Doris Gradiz, Rachelle Gutierrez, Jose Loredo Quintana and Emily Silva each received a $20,000 college scholarship.

 

In collaboration with the University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas), a full, four-year scholarship to the university was awarded to Eh Tu Gae.

 

UNT Dallas President Bob Mong said the university is proud to be a part of the Fairway to Success program for another year. “Our growing urban university is built on the belief that everyone should have access to education, and that’s what this program is all about,” Mong stated.

 

Additionally, in collaboration with the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), a full, four-year scholarship was awarded to Joshua Puga.

 

“The University of Texas at Arlington is honored to partner with the Fairway to Success program. The leadership skills developed, the business acumen gained, the esprit de corps developed, and the soft skills participants hone are beyond measure in their lifelong learning. Students are equipped to carve out their own space as they follow their career pathways and make their dreams a reality,” said Anna Michele Bobadilla, University of Texas at Arlington, Senior Associate VP Outreach & Community Engagement.

 

Established in 2007, the Fairway to Success program annually awards scholarships to students based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community involvement and financial need. The program spans four DISD high schools – W.W. Samuell, Thomas Jefferson, Lincoln and David W. Carter – and includes introducing students to golf and the life lessons of discipline, honor and integrity that are central to the game.


“Deloitte is proud to continue to support the Fairway to Success program. We see firsthand the benefits of sponsoring and mentoring young people in the community and offer our enthusiastic support to this year’s scholarship recipients,” said Dan Berner, North Texas Managing Partner, Deloitte LLP. “I’m proud of the work our professionals have done to support these students this year. It’s our hope at Deloitte that the students continue to succeed and apply the skills they’ve learned – both in the classroom and on the golf course – to their future professional endeavors.”


During the 2022-2023 school year, 105 DISD students took part in a virtual six-week college prep program led by Deloitte professionals as well as an after-school golf program. Students learned the basics of golf from PGA professionals, and graduating seniors who qualified by participating in the program had the chance to apply for the scholarships.

 

Fairway to Success also includes a mentorship component to support the scholarship recipients throughout their college careers. Scholarship recipients interact with Deloitte mentors who share their insights gained from working in a professional services environment. Mentors also help students explore potential career opportunities in the business and STEM-focused fields of study.

 

Since the program’s inception, 88 DISD students have received scholarships, now topping $2.2 million – mostly funded through donations from Deloitte partners, principals, managing directors and professionals in North Texas.

 

The NTPGA also employs two Fairway to Success recipients as interns each summer, furthering the recipients’ golf education that began on their high school campuses through Fairway to Success.

 

The 2023 Deloitte / NTPGA Fairway to Success scholarship recipients are:


Cithlaly Crispin – Thomas Jefferson High School

 

Cithlaly is a 2023 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, ranked 2nd in the class, and a graduate from Brookhaven College with an associate's degree. This coming fall, Cithlaly will head to the University of North Texas at Denton to study media arts. While at Thomas Jefferson, Cithlaly was captain of the mock trial team, captain of the academic decathlon, president of Academic Success Program Ambassadors, a member of the National Honor Society, and a member of the Spanish Honor Society. On the journey off to UNT, meeting new people, learning new cultures, and portraying stories through filmmaking are the most exciting factors during the first year.

 

Shane Davis – David W. Carter High School

 

Shane is a 2023 graduate of Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center and will be heading to the University of Memphis this fall. At Memphis, Shane will be looking to study biology with a focus on sports medicine, a passion he wants to pursue because of the number of times he has injured himself while playing sports! As athletics is not offered at Yvonne, Davis, played varsity soccer and participated in cross country for Carter. He was part of a club soccer team and enjoys reading, online chess, and violin. He is looking forward to new experiences, meeting new people, and joining different clubs in Memphis.

 

 

Doris Gradiz – Thomas Jefferson High School

 

Doris is a 2023 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, ranked 7th in her class, as well as a graduate of Brookhaven College with an associate's degree. This upcoming fall, Doris will be attending the University of Texas at Austin with plans to major in education with a focus in history. While at Thomas Jefferson, Doris was part of chess, theater, modern band, the Academic Success Program, and mock trial. As she looks towards her time in Austin, she is excited to start a new chapter in her life and help as many people that come from the same background as her.

 

Rachelle Gutierrez – W.W. Samuell High School

 

Rachelle is a 2023 graduate of W.W. Samuell High School, ranked 4th in her class,  and also received her associate's degree from Eastfield College. This fall, she will head to the University of Texas at Arlington to pursue a degree in interior architecture. She was part of her high school soccer team for all four years while being on the A-honor roll for two years straight. Rachelle has plenty of accomplishments and has done all of this while being the primary caretaker for her younger brother. At UTA, she is looking forward to building connections and establishing a pathway for her family's future.

 

Jose Loredo Quintana – W.W. Samuell High School

 

Jose is a 2023 graduate of W.W. Samuell High School, ranked 12th in his class, and also received his associate's degree from Eastfield College. He will head to the University of Texas at Arlington to pursue a degree in computer science this upcoming fall. Jose is looking forward to getting involved on campus and interacting with other students. He is interested in becoming a member of Eta Kappa Nu, which is an honor society for computer and electrical engineers.


Emily Silva – W.W. Samuell High School

 

Emily is a 2023 graduate of W.W. Samuell High School and also received her associate's degree from Eastfield College. She will be pursuing a degree in studio art at the University of Texas at San Antonio this fall. Emily has a passion for art and wants to help others express themselves through it. She is looking forward to pushing her limits and fully expressing herself at UTSA this upcoming fall.

 

Eh Tu Gae – Lincoln High School (UNT-D Recipient)

 

Eh Tu Gae is a 2023 graduate of Lincoln High School and is ranked 9th in his class. This fall, he will continue his education at the University of North Texas at Dallas where he plans to study criminal justice as well as be a part of the Army Reserves. During his time at Lincoln, he participated in film contests, was the captain of the soccer team, kicker for the football team, and a member of JROTC. He is looking forward to continuing his studies along with giving back to his community and being a great role model to his younger siblings.


Joshua Puga – David W. Carter High School (UTA Recipient)

 

Joshua Puga is a 2023 graduate of David W. Carter High School and will be headed to the University of Texas at Arlington. At UTA, Joshua will be pursuing graphic design as he enjoys drawing and being creative.  Joshua transferred to Carter his senior year and the biggest lesson he learned from that transition was to ask for help when he needed it. During his time at Carter, he was involved in varsity golf, student council, and was a member of the Ewing Automotive NTPGA Junior Tour. He is looking forward to inspiring others, meeting new people on campus, and learning new things.

Bingaman, Shields Earn First Match Play Victories at the Duel in the Desert at Lajitas Golf Resort

By Margaret Miller • December 9, 2025
LAJITAS, Texas (December 9) – Brandon Bingaman, PGA assistant professional at Gleneagles Country Club, won the Duel in the Desert at Lajitas Golf Resort to claim the 2025 Yamaha Golf-Car Company | Srixon and Nike Match Play Championship Open Division title. Rob Shields, PGA member at The Winsford Group, claimed the Senior Division title. The No. 2-seeded Bingaman battled No. 12 Jon Antunes, PGA director of instruction at Heart of Texas Golf Academy, in a 36-hole final match for the title and $10,000. Both players began their run to the championship match back in October at White Bluff Resort, where they battled their way through the 32-player Match Play Championship bracket. “It’s incredible out here,” said Bingaman. “Jon is awesome; we couldn’t have had more fun. It’s hard, because on one hand you want to win and it's stressful, but on the other hand we were just two guys enjoying playing golf.” After playing 18 holes on Monday, their match stood at 2UP in favor of Bingaman. He continued his charge with birdies on holes 2, 3, 4, 5 and 8, extending his lead to 7UP. Antunes quickly answered back with a long putt on the 9th hole to cut into Bingaman's lead. But, Bingaman drained a birdie putt on hole 13 to end the match. He claimed his first Match Play title 7&5. Bingaman made a putter switch in between the 36-hole match. “I brought two putters with me. I’ve been flipping back and forth recently between a L.A.B Putter and a Scottie Cameron, which did me well last week. Going into this weekend, I had a good feeling [about the latter], and good feelings turned into good playing.” This is the first year that Bingaman has made it to the final match. Antunes has won the title twice, previously in 2021 and 2022. “This was my first time qualifying for [Duel in the Desert], and I was super excited because I’ve heard nothing but great things about Lajitas Golf Resort,” said Bingaman. In the Senior Division, Rob Shields, PGA Member of the Winsford Group, started the day with a 1UP lead over Billy Harris. Harris birdied the 2nd hole to tie the match, and on the next hole, he went 1UP. Shields and Harris battled back and forth on holes 4, 5, 6 and 7 before Shields won holes 8, 9 and 10. His 3UP lead was enough to take the victory on hole 16, 3&2. “I think my putting was good. I hit the fairways today, which is good because if not, you’re playing in the trees, or desert; but, it was fun. I had a good time,” said Shields. He continued by praising his opponent and friend, Billy Harris, “I’ve known Billy for a long time. He’s a good guy.” Shields earned $5,000 for his victory today and his first match play title. This year was the fourth year that the Open Division championship match was conducted in Lajitas and the second year that the Senior Division joined them. “This place is a hidden gem. It’s a great golf course, lots and lots of fun. It was a joy being out here. The elevation changes are awesome,” said Shields about Lajitas Golf Resort. The Yamaha Golf-Car Company | Srixon and Nike Match Play Championship was presented by Adventures In Golf, Lajitas Golf Resort, PGA TOUR, THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson, TPx Communications and XXIO.
Cameron Doan GY

Northern Texas PGA Announces 2025 Section Award Winners

By Molly Rawlins • November 21, 2025
2025 NTPGA Award Winners

Team NTPGA Victorious at Historic 45th Texas Joe Black Cup Matches

November 18, 2025
HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 18, 2025) – The historic 45th Joe Black Cup has concluded, and we proudly congratulate Team NTPGA on securing the victory at BraeBurn Country Club with a final score of 15.5–8.5 over Team STPGA. Team NTPGA established early momentum during Day One, delivering an impressive performance in the Four-Ball and Foursomes matches, where they earned 9.5 points to build a commanding lead. Their strong play continued into the Singles matches, where they successfully held off a determined rally from Team STPGA. Throughout Tuesday’s competition, spectators were treated to a dynamic and engaging battle, with the leaderboard frequently shifting between red and blue as both teams exchanged critical points to tie the session 6-6. This year’s event was elevated by a truly memorable “Evening of Honor,” during which we welcomed and celebrated 29 Past Captains. Their presence underscored the tradition, legacy, and camaraderie that define the Texas Joe Black Cup Matches. The evening served as a powerful reminder of the event’s rich history and the influential leaders who have helped shape its enduring significance. We extend heartfelt congratulations to Team NTPGA for their outstanding performance and to both teams for exemplifying sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and pride in their respective sections. The 45th Joe Black Cup will long be remembered as a fitting tribute to the heritage of golf in Texas, Mr. Joe Black, and the individuals who continue to elevate the game. After 45 years of competition, the Northern Texas PGA now holds a 22–21–2 lead over the Southern Texas PGA in the storied history of the Joe Black Cup Matches. The 46th playing will return to Midland Country Club on November 16–17, 2026, where Team STPGA will look to reclaim the cup and bring it back to Southern Texas. A special thank you to Club Car, Srixon, Cleveland Golf, Peter Millar, and Winston Collection for their outstanding partnership and support in creating a world-class atmosphere befitting this historic 45th edition of the Matches. To view the final results, click here .

Dillard Earns $25,000 at Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Shootout at The Oaks

By Molly Rawlins • November 9, 2025
GREENVILLE, Texas (November 9) – Spencer Dillard, PGA head professional at Preston Trail Golf Club, claimed the Jerry J. Ransom Northern Texas PGA Shootout at The Oaks title, taking home $25,000 for the shootout win. It took two playoff holes for Dillard to best runner-up Matt Lohmeyer, PGA director of instruction at SLICGOLF, with Dillard making par on the second playoff hole while Lohmeyer made bogey after his tee shot found its way into the creek. “Playing hole nine a few times was hard,” commented Dillard. “[The shootout] is different than stroke play golf. It was like match play. You kind of saw what your opponents were in position for and what they were going to do, just trying to outlast them to the finish line. I was pretty comfortable in the shootout portion. Having Mark [Harrison] and Randy [Smith] there with the mics commenting and having some good banter kept us all relaxed. It is awesome to win that kind of money. Quite life-changing for those of us who get the chance to play for it. Thanks, Mr. Ransom, for everything you do for the Section.” Longtime NTPGA Foundation supporter Jerry J. Ransom welcomed 70 Northern Texas PGA Members and Associates to The Oaks Country Club for the second annual Shootout. The event was created last year as a way to recognize the PGA Professionals across the Section who dedicate their time and energy to growing the game through the NTPGA Foundation’s initiatives. The event was developed by Ransom in collaboration with NTPGA CEO Mark Harrison as a way to thank PGA Professionals across the Northern Texas Section while also providing exposure to The Oaks Country Club. The Oaks is a top-five nine-hole course in Texas according to the Dallas Morning News golf course rankings. The format for the event features a 9-hole qualifier, with the top three finishers and one randomly selected participant moving on to the afternoon shootout. Darren Malicki, PGA Associate at Cascades Country Club, was the first qualifier after finishing 3-under-par. Lohmeyer was the next to advance at 2-under, and finally Dillard at 1-under. Andrew Martin, PGA Associate at Tanglewood Golf Course, was the random drawing winner. The nine-hole Shootout portion of the event was played in three stages of three holes each, with one professional eliminated after every stage. After the first three holes, Martin was eliminated and landed a prize of $2,500. The scores were then reset to even par and the second three holes saw Darren Malicki bow out, but still earned $7,500. The scores again reset to even par for the final three-hole segment, where Dillard and Lohmeyer battled it out in five. The Oaks Country Club 9 Holes Par 36 3,355 yards View the final results HERE