For the second year in a row, the Evans Scholarship is on the list of collegiate financial awards earned by the CRC graduating class. This year, not one but THREE students will be attending college on this prestigious four-year tuition and housing scholarship. Seniors Mickey, Dakotah, and Bintou all earned the scholarship through their participation in the Western Golf Association (WGA) Caddie Academy. They join 2025 CRC alum, Chris Pacheco Posadas, who earned the scholarship last year and is currently completing his freshman year at the University of Notre Dame.
The trio became part of the first class of female students to participate in the WGA Caddie Academy in the state of Ohio during the summer between their freshman and sophomore year. They were chosen for their promise in the areas of academics, leadership, and character. Participation required a school recommendation, working as a caddie at either Scioto Country Club or Muirfield Village Golf Club, and living together for seven weeks each summer on Ohio State’s campus with college students enrolled in the Evans Scholars program. In addition to providing a path to eligibility for the Evans Scholarship, the Caddie Academy includes test prep, field trips, guest speakers, and more. The program teaches students invaluable skills such as accountability, networking, and self-reliance with the goal of creating life-changing opportunities through golf.
(Beginning 2nd from left) Mickey, Dakotah, and Bintou walk the course at Scioto Country Club
(Left to right) Mickey, Bintou, CRC President Joe Patrick, and Dakotah at an Evans Scholars event
Their experience on the golf course has given these young women a great sense a pride. “Being trailblazers in the Caddie Academy feels powerful,” said Mickey. “As a young woman of color stepping into a male-dominated field, I feel like I’m making history and giving future young women in Ohio the courage to do the same.” The experience, although rewarding, did not come without sacrifice, as Dakotah noted. “I learned to be proud of my hard work. I spent my summers in high school working instead of taking vacations, I missed events with family and friends,” she said. “I learned how to be independent and responsible. It pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way.”
The payoff – a four-year tuition and housing scholarship – was definitely worth it. “When I found out I got the Evans Scholarship I cried,” said Mickey. “I was so overwhelmed and joyful at the same time.”
For any young women considering the Evans Scholars program, Dakotah has some excellent advice. “Take the opportunity, even if it feels challenging or unfamiliar,” she shared. “You grow so much every day by showing up, working hard, and trusting yourself. The program asks a lot from you, but it gives back even more. It opens doors, builds confidence, and shows you what you’re capable of.”
Although they still have a few days to make their final college decisions, Mickey plans to head north to attend John Carroll University while Dakotah and Bintou intend to enroll at The Ohio State University.