The mission of the sessions was to assist the chapter in designing a roadmap of activities for the coming months and year

I had the opportunity to recently host strategic planning sessions with the Board of Directors from both the GCSA of Northern California and the GCSA of Southern California.  The mission of these sessions was to assist the chapter in designing a roadmap of activities for the coming months and year. 

The GCSA of Northern California met on February 15 at Metropolitan Golf Links in Oakland, CA.  Board members in attendance included President Jay Neunsinger, Vice President Steven Spatafore, Secretary/Treasurer Mike Adkins, Adam Levinsohn, Brian Boyer, Brian Daum and Chapter Executive Marc Connerly. 

We discussed the Mission and Vision Statements of GCSANC (no changes were made), developed a SCOR analysis (Strengths, Challenges, Risks & Opportunities) and then developed action items including laying the groundwork for renewed participation in Rounds 4 Research, increasing attendance at GCSANC member events and increased participation in advocacy related initiatives in Northern California and at the State level.  

The GCSA of Southern California met on February 16 at Santa Ana Country Club in Santa Ana, CA.  Board members in attendance included President Dan Cruse, Vice President Jason Fuertes, Bob Vaughey, Don Ebarb and Chapter Executive Marc Connerly. 

We reviewed the Mission and Vision Statements and overhauled the Vision Statement to make it more relevant with the future of the association (Turfgrass professionals dedicated to providing a creative and inclusive organization serving the best interests of the golf industry in Southern California).  Following the discussion, we developed a SCOR analysis and three action items including the creation of an Affiliates breakfast/lunch to better understand the needs of our sponsor members, increasing meeting attendance and making some modifications to an already successful Duff Shaw Classic. 

Thank you to both Boards for participating in the session and I believe they will assist the chapters in moving forward.  A special thanks goes out to Gary Ingram and Shelley Hara at Metro and GCSASC President Dan Cruse for hosting the sessions and providing great hospitality. 

Strategic Planning and Board Orientation are free services offered to GCSAA Chapters through our Chapter Outreach Department.  If your chapter is interested in hosting a session, please contact your Regional Field Representative for more information.