The Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund
FAQ’s
Is the Ouimet Fund a tax-exempt organization?
Yes, The Fund is an official 501 c (3) non-profit organization, and is considered "The Golf Charity of Massachusetts™", and has been since its inception in 1949. The tax ID # is 04-2234126
How much is given out each year in need-based scholarships?
Since 1949, The Fund has awarded $23.5 Million dollars in need-based financial aid to over 4,800 college students from Massachusetts who have worked in the game of golf for at least two years. In 2011-2012, The Fund awarded $1.46 Million in need-based financial aid.
What is the expense ratio of the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund?
In FY 2011 the administrative expense ratio of the fund was a very respectable 8.6 %. When compared to other charities of similar size, the Ouimet Fund is on a par or better in terms of expense ratio. Any clubs or potential donors that wish to inquire further about The Fund's programs may click here for our most recent fiscal year audit or Form 990 or call 774.430.9090.
Who is the money raised by The Fund awarded to?
All Ouimet Scholarship candidates must have performed at least two years service to golf as caddies, or in pro shop or grounds crew operations at any course in Massachusetts. The candidate must plan to be a full-time student at an accredited institution of undergraduate higher education. Students may apply as seniors in High School or during their college career.
What is the difference between Ouimet Scholars and Ouimet Honorary Scholars?
The difference between Ouimet Scholars and Ouimet Honorary Scholars is very simple. Ouimet Scholars are those students who have gone through the review and interview process, have qualified, and have certified financial need. Ouimet Honorary Scholars have gone through the same rigorous interview process, have qualified, but DO NOT qualify to receive any financial award. Despite not receiving a monetary award the designation of Ouimet Scholar is a great honor and helps them tap into the vast network of fellow Ouimet Scholars currently in the work force.
How do potential Ouimet Scholars qualify to receive financial aid?
Potential Ouimet Scholars qualify for financial assistance through official financial data profiles (FAFSA/CSS Profile). These forms (the same used by colleges and universities), determine whether a student is eligible for financial aid, and how much financial aid is needed. Very few scholarship organizations have access to this information.
Where does the money for scholarships come from?
Money for the scholarships comes from many different programs and fundraising initiatives. First, the Bag Tag program is supported by the many golf clubs throughout the Commonwealth. This program is the backbone of the Ouimet Scholarship Fund, and helps to raise over 40% of The Fund's revenue per year, 100% of which goes towards scholarships which are given to club employees/former employees. The Golf Marathon is another major annual fundraiser, which has raised over $4 Million in its 19 years of existence. Another large source of funds is the Annual Banquet, which has honored some of the biggest names in golf for the past 15 years. The most recent Banquet honored Annika Sorenstam and had 1,500 attendees. One of our fastest growing initiatives is our Endowed Scholarships, which are established in the name of people or companies, and are a great way to permanently associate a person or group with golf, education, and the Ouimet Fund. Other major donors contribute through the Ouimet Society, which has over 150 Lifetime Members. These members gather every year to play in golf outings, which raise money for The Fund, and often times collectively create permanently Endowed Scholarships. The Fund is also supported by our Alumni and many other outside outings and fundraisers to which it is greatly appreciative. So many people are involved with the Ouimet Fund to help students achieve their goals.
What are the deadlines for application to become a Ouimet Scholar?
To request an application package complete this form or contact The Fund office at 774.430.9090 in midsummer to be put on an application mailing list for awards for the following school year. Application packages are mailed in from early summer up to mid November. Applicants must submit recommendations from a guidance counselor and three club officials, complete an essay, be interviewed, and submit official grade transcripts and various official (FAFSA & CSS/Profile) financial data.
Scholarship Schedule:
December 1:
Completed applications due
June 1:
Financial Aid due
July:
Completion of applicant evaluations
August:
Awards announced
What criteria are evaluated?
Applicants for the Ouimet Scholarship are evaluated through a number of different criteria. After submitting recommendations from a guidance counselor and three club officials, and an essay, they will then be invited for an interview with various members of our Board of Directors, volunteers and Staff. The interview focuses on criteria such as Leadership, Character, Knowledge of Francis Ouimet, Extracurricular Activities, and Service to and Love of the Game of Golf. Official grade transcripts are also required. We feel that this gives a great snapshot of each student, and helps to choose the most outstanding young men and women to become Ouimet Scholars. The FAFSA/CSS Profile is also evaluated to determine which scholars will receive financial aid, and which will become Honorary Scholars (No Cash Award).
Who comprises the Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors is a "who's who" of leaders from the local business world. They have come from all corners of business for one purpose: to help students who have provided services to golf achieve their goals of receiving a higher education.
Do the Board Members receive any compensation?
All Ouimet Fund Officers, Directors, Directors Ex-Officio, and Trustees are volunteers. Without their hard work and dedication to The Fund, many students would not be able to afford a higher education.
Can the public attend the Annual Meeting?
Yes, the public is invited to attend the Annual Meeting. For information on the date and time of the Annual Meeting, please contact The Fund at 774.430.9090.
Miscellaneous Facts
Below are some tables with miscellaneous scholarship facts:
Annual Ouimet Scholarship Awards
- 1949 - $4,604 Awarded
- 1950-1959 - $170,730 Awarded
- 1960-1969 - $676,559 Awarded
- 1970-1979 - $1,389,625 Awarded
- 1980-1989 - $2,884,650 Awarded
- 1990-1999 - $4,725,500 Awarded
- 2000-2009 - $10,714,909 Awarded
- 2010 - $1.460,000 Awarded
- 2011 - $1,460,000 Awarded
Total - $22.5 Million in Scholarship
2011-20121 Scholarship Profile
- $1.46 Million Total Scholarships
- 260 Financial Awardees
- 73 “Honorary” Scholars – No Cash Award
- $5,615 Average Cash Award
- 133 Clubs Represented by Scholars
- 133 Colleges Represented by Scholars
Scholars Golf Employment
- 52% Caddies
- 42% Pro Shop
- 6% Course Superintendent Operations
- 47 Women Scholars
- 13 Minority Scholars
Who comprises the staff for the Ouimet Fund?
Led by a strong Board of Directors, a small staff of 5 full-time employees manage the daily operations of the Ouimet Fund. The staff is made up of the Executive Director, Assistant Executive Director, Director of Scholarship and Finance, Director of Donor Systems, and Operations Coordinator. In addition to the full-time staff, the Ouimet Fund brings in one current Ouimet Scholar or graduating Alumnus of the program to intern for the summer months.