Marriott Golf has given Laurie Bland its Marriott Golf Minority Scholarship, which is awarded to an outstanding student enrolled in the Golf Course Operations Program at Lake City Community College in Lake City, Fla.

Bland is the first individual majoring in golf course operations to receive the Marriott Golf Minority Scholarship. Currently a senior at LCCC, she is expected to graduate in May 2008 with a degree in golf course operations and a certificate in turf equipment management.

As part of the scholarship requirement, Bland completed a summer internship at Marriott Golf’s Doral Golf Resort & Spa in Miami, where she fulfilled the duties of an assistant superintendent in training on the Blue Monster Course.

She also participated in the Alonzo Mourning Charity Golf Tournament where she served as the grounds event coordinator and was responsible for scheduling, course set-up and supervising staff. Bland is a member of The Florida Turf Grass Association, The Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association and GCSAA.

"I am truly honored to be receiving the Marriott Golf Minority Scholarship," Bland said. "It is very rewarding to be recognized for all of my efforts, and I look forward to continuing my education and experience in the field to have a successful career within the golf industry."