January 13, 2025 – KOHLER, WI – The Kohler Co. today announced a multi-year grant to the Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship Fund, underscoring the company’s commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion through education and professional development in the golf industry.
The grant, spanning 2024 through 2029, will provide annual donations to support scholarships and related services through the Sifford Scholarship Fund. The Kohler Co. has pledged an initial donation and will make annual contributions based on green fees at its world-renowned Whistling Straits golf course, donating $1 for every green fee collected.
Further strengthening its commitment to the next generation of golf professionals, Kohler will launch a paid internship program in 2025. These internships at Kohler’s Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits golf courses will be offered to Sifford Scholars pursuing PGA of America-accredited Professional Golf Management programs. The program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience, industry exposure, and mentorship opportunities.
This initiative reflects Kohler’s dedication to fostering meaningful change and creating pathways for success in the golf industry, aligned with the values and legacy of Dr. Charles L. Sifford.
“Our company has a proud history of social investment programs focused on education to advance equal opportunity and economic growth throughout society,” said Dirk Willis, Vice President – Golf & Real Estate of KOHLER Hospitality. “We are delighted to support the Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship Fund in its celebrated work to promote the humanitarian values that defined Charlie Sifford’s life through higher education and leadership.”
Charles Sifford Jr., a representative of the Scholarship Committee, shared his gratitude for the partnership. ”The Charlie Sifford Scholarship Committee is extremely grateful for Kohler Co.’s generous investment in our mission. This extraordinary gift allows us to provide critical support to young leaders who embody the values embedded in the life and legacy of my pioneer father.”
About Kohler Co.
For 150 years, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in design and innovation, dedicated to delivering gracious living through kitchen and bath products, luxury cabinetry, tile and lighting, energy solutions, and hospitality experiences. Its championship golf courses, including Whistling Straits, hosted the 43rd Ryder Cup in 2021. Privately held since its founding in 1873, Kohler is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin, and develops solutions for pressing global issues such as clean water and sanitation in underserved communities.
About the Cobbs Creek Foundation
The Cobbs Creek Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2018, is dedicated to restoring the historic Cobbs Creek Golf Course in Philadelphia, PA. Through partnerships with schools and local organizations, the Foundation is creating a state-of-the-art campus that supports youth development in academics, athletics, and social-emotional growth. To learn more, visit www.cobbscreek.org.
About the Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship Fund
Cobbs Creek Foundation serves as the fiscal sponsor of the Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship Fund, named for the trailblazing golfer who broke racial barriers in professional golf. Cobbs Creek Golf Course, historically inclusive of Black and women golfers, was Charlie Sifford’s home course during his time in Philadelphia. To learn more, visit www.siffordscholars.com.