The Club Foundation—Scholarships and Grants

The Club Foundation, a subsidiary of CMAA, is the only 501(c)(3) organization focused solely on the club industry. The Club Foundation provides funding for professional development opportunities throughout the life cycle of a club manager's career, beginning at the university level and continuing through the executive level. Each year, through the generosity of so many donors, The Club Foundation is able to fulfill its mission to financially support the club management profession through education, research, and outreach initiatives. In 2023, 2,943 individuals and organizations donated well over ¼-Million Dollars to fuel the future of our industry. Since inception in 1988, more than $8.5 million in grants and scholarships has been given to CMAA members, CMAA Chapters, and the club industry.  

The Club Foundation has multiple scholarship programs. Here are the two most relevant to newer CMAA members: 

1. The James B. Singerling Scholarship: This scholarship was created in honor of CMAA’s long-time CEO, Jim Singerling, CCM, after 25 years of leadership. The purpose of this scholarship is to make it possible for recipients to attend the CMAA World Conference & Club Business Expo for the first time as a club industry professional by covering the cost of registration and up to $1,000 in travel-related expenses. 
   
   Who Should Apply?  
   Any Professional or Alumnus member who has not previously attended World Conference.
   
   Deadline
   October 1 

2. Willmoore H. Kendall Scholarship: In 2001, the Willmoore H. Kendall Scholarship Fund was established in memory of CMAA Past President Bill Kendall. This scholarship provides tuition support to assistant managers and aspiring managers interested in pursuing the Certified Club Manager (CCM) designation and covers the cost of any and all BMIs needed to qualify for the CCM designation.
   
   Who Should Apply?   
   • • a member of CMAA;
     • committed to a career in the club industry;
     • actively pursuing the CCM designation;
     • have at least one Business Management Institute (BMI) remaining to complete; and
     • nominated for the scholarship by their CMAA chapter. 

   Deadlines
   Application Due Date: October 1 (Chapter) 
   Application Due Date: November 1 (The Club Foundation)