April 31, 2026 | Alumni Spotlight
Graduation season is a favorite among our staff as we get to announce scholarship recipients and share their exciting post-secondary education plans. (Stay tuned for a post about that later this month.) We also have the pleasure of catching up with alumni, like Kate Nyers, who are transitioning from college to careers.
We recently sat down with Kate, a First Tee – Greater Charleston scholar and collegiate golfer set to graduate from Belmont Abbey this month, to learn more about how First Tee and playing golf prepared her for life beyond the golf course. Here’s what she had to say…
How did you get into golf?
I got into golf through my dad. He introduced me to the game when I was around 8 years old, and shortly after, I began participating in First Tee.
What was your favorite part about being in First Tee programs?
What I appreciated most was that it was never just about golf. While I loved learning the game and improving my skills, the real impact came from the environment. It was such a positive and encouraging space, where I felt both supported and challenged. The coaches invested in us as people, teaching confidence, respect, integrity, and teamwork in ways that naturally carried over into everyday life. Those lessons have stayed with me far beyond the course, and that’s what made the experience so meaningful.
Can you share a favorite moment?
One memory that really stands out to me was when my class had the opportunity to meet professional golfer Russell Henley. He joined our class for the day and helped us with our putting. Something I still remember to this day is his advice to always get the ball to the hole. Since then, it’s been exciting to watch him excel on the PGA Tour and see how successful he has become.
Do you have a favorite core value?
Honesty is my favorite core value of First Tee. [My coaches] taught the importance of being truthful, taking responsibility for your actions, and doing the right thing even when no one is watching. I love that honesty helps to build trust and respect in all areas of life, not just in sports.
What was the most meaningful thing you learned on the golf course?
My biggest takeaway from First Tee was confidence. When I first joined, I was a shy girl who was hesitant to try new things and step outside my comfort zone. Through the program, I learned important life skills, such as how to introduce myself properly and build meaningful connections with both my peers and coaches. Those experiences helped me become more comfortable speaking up, taking on new opportunities, and believing in myself, which are skills that still benefit me today.
First Tee curriculum pushes participants to build a go-to team as they set goals for themselves. Can you tell us about your experience building a go-to team?
First Tee provided a strong support system that extended far beyond the program itself. Through building my go-to team, I formed relationships with mentors and peers I still rely on today, and I’ve stayed connected with them even after completing the program. They continue to offer guidance and encouragement, which played a major role in helping me secure an internship this past summer and showed me how genuinely invested First Tee is in the long-term success of its participants.
What are you up to now?
I am graduating this month from Belmont Abbey College with a major in marketing and minors in social media and digital marketing.
(Congratulations, Kate! We hope you are as proud of your accomplishments as we are.)
What’s next?
I am currently pursuing a marketing position in the Charleston Area. I am focused on finding a role that aligns with my skills while allowing me to continue to gain experience and grow professionally.
What would you tell someone who is on the fence about getting involved as a program participant, volunteer, or donor?
I would tell them that First Tee is about so much more than just golf; it’s about building confidence, character, and skills that genuinely change lives. As a participant, you gain mentorship and values that stick with you far beyond the course. As a volunteer, you get to directly shape young people’s futures and be part of something bigger than yourself. And as a donor, you’re investing in real, lasting impact within your community. No matter how you get involved, First Tee leaves a lasting impact on both the people you serve and yourself. I can’t wait to remain part of this program and see how it continues to grow and impact youth in the Charleston community.
(Kate’s words are so kind and compelling that she’s already helped us recruit a few volunteers, including her dad who will be coaching at Patriots Point Links this year. Thank you, Kate! Your future in marketing is sure to be bright!!)