Impact & Leadership
Industry Impact
My work in both NYSTA and LIGCSA reflects my deep commitment to data-driven turf management, sound public policy, and sustainable environmental practices. I’ve advocated for our industry at the state level, partnered with researchers and regulators, and led initiatives that deliver real-world value to superintendents and stakeholders alike. Whether it’s improving education, protecting access to key tools, or securing funding for strategic studies, I’m passionate about helping move our industry forward with integrity and vision.
New York State Turfgrass Association (NYSTA) Leadership
Since joining the NYSTA Board in 2019, I’ve served in a range of leadership roles, including President, Chair of Strategic Planning, and Co-Chair of Government Relations. I co-developed the New York Turfgrass Apprenticeship Program with SUNY Delhi and BLOOM Golf Partners—a fully state-approved initiative that covers all apprentice education costs and provides tax credits to participating employers. I also rebranded “Turfgrass Lobby Day” into “Turfgrass Advocacy Day” to better reflect our proactive, educational approach with legislators—helping double state funding for environmental stewardship. From securing a special pesticide label with DEC and university partners to testifying before the NYS Assembly, I’ve worked to ensure that decisions affecting our industry are grounded in science and practicality. I’m especially proud to have chaired NYSTA’s first full-scale Turfgrass Economic Impact & Environmental Survey in partnership with Cornell.
Industry Leadership: Long Island Golf Course Superintendents Association (LIGCSA)
As an active leader in the Long Island Golf Course Superintendents Association (LIGCSA), I’ve worked to support the turfgrass industry through policy advocacy, strategic planning, and member-focused initiatives.
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS CHAIR & VICE PRESIDENT
In my role as Government Affairs Chair—and now as Vice President—I’ve worked closely with NYSTA, LINAP (Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan), and regulatory agencies to ensure that golf’s interests are effectively represented. I played a key role in shaping region-specific fertilizer recommendations for lawns, landscapes, and golf courses, helping to prevent restrictive legislation through responsible, science-based alternatives.
WATER CONSERVATION & BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
I contributed to the development of Long Island’s Golf Course Water Conservation Best Management Practices—a collaborative framework that balances environmental protection with the agronomic realities of maintaining high-quality turf. These BMPs serve as a model for sustainable water use and regulatory transparency.
BUDGET REALIGNMENT & ORGANIZATIONAL STEWARDSHIP
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I led a strategic realignment of the LIGCSA budget, eliminating the operating deficit and restoring financial health. This allowed the association to maintain vital programming, education, and member services through an unprecedented period of uncertainty.
COMPENSATION SURVEY DEVELOPMENT
I helped spearhead the creation of an industry-wide compensation survey, giving superintendents and clubs the tools to benchmark salaries, advocate for fair wages, and promote long-term professional sustainability within the industry.
YOUTH OUTREACH & INDUSTRY PROMOTION
To promote awareness of golf course management as a career path, I hosted field trips at North Hempstead Country Club for high school students from Barry Tech and Salonica. These hands-on experiences helped introduce students to turf careers and led to successful summer internship placements for those interested in joining the industry.