Treasure Valley Golf Tournament Supports Oregon State University Scholarships, Draws Alumni, Athletes
The Treasure Valley Golf Tournament, an annual event organized by the Oregon State University Alumni Association, has raised over $2.1 million for student scholarships since its inception in 2008, according to the university’s financial reports. The 2023 edition, held on September 15 at the Boise Country Club, featured 250 participants, including former athletes and local business leaders, who contributed to the cause.
Event Origins and Purpose
Initiated by Oregon State University (OSU) alumni in the Treasure Valley region of Idaho, the tournament was designed to foster community engagement while supporting academic initiatives. “This event bridges our shared heritage as Beavers—Oregon State’s mascot—with our commitment to educational equity,” said Sarah Lin, chair of the tournament’s organizing committee, in a press release. The funds directly benefit the OSU Foundation’s need-based scholarship program, which has awarded over 1,200 grants since 2010.
Tournament Structure and Participation
The 18-hole charity match follows a scramble format, with proceeds covering green fees, meal packages, and raffle prizes. This year’s event included a silent auction featuring autographed sports memorabilia from OSU athletes, including a 1990s NFL draft pick and a 2016 NCAA championship basketball jersey. According to the Boise County Chamber of Commerce, the tournament generated $150,000 in local business revenue through vendor partnerships.
Impact on Student Success
Recipients of the scholarships, such as engineering major Marcus Rivera, credit the program with enabling their education. “Without this support, I wouldn’t have been able to afford tuition,” Rivera said in a 2022 interview with the OSU News. The university reports that 89% of scholarship recipients graduate within four years, outperforming the national average of 66% for similar programs.
Future Outlook
Organizers plan to expand the tournament’s reach in 2024 by introducing a virtual fundraising component and partnering with Idaho-based corporations. “We aim to make this event a regional cornerstone for educational philanthropy,” Lin added. The 2024 date is tentatively set for September 21, with registration opening in March 2024 through the OSU Alumni Association website.