MARQUETTE, Mich.—The inaugural Blueberry Classic golf outing is scheduled Friday, July 29, at the Northern Michigan University Golf Course in Chocolay Township. It is designed to raise scholarship funds for NMU students who encounter unforeseen financial challenges.

An NMU Student Flexible Aid Fund created by the event will be a resource to which students can apply for help in covering costs such as auto repairs, medical bills, child care and course expenses not covered by financial aid.

“Each year, a number of NMU students are distracted by situations that place added demands on their already limited finances,” said Phyllis Wong, event co-chair. “A golf outing seemed like a fun, relaxing way to generate support that can help students navigate through these temporary hardships and ensure their continued academic success. But this is no ordinary golf outing.”

Designed to attract all types of golfers—social, competitive, intermediate and novice—the Blueberry Classic will feature 18 traditional and not-so-traditional holes. Registration begins at 11 a.m. and four-person teams will tee off at noon in a scramble format. Participants are encouraged to arrive early to receive playing tips from local “experts” and stay late to enjoy chair massages and a golf cart regatta. Lunch, snacks on holes and end-of-day appetizers and beverages will be provided. 

The event is a new addition to activities held as part of the annual downtown Marquette Blueberry Festival. It will also raise awareness of how the NMU Golf Course, donated to the university in 2009, benefits students on multiple levels.

“Beyond providing employment opportunities, the course has become a learning laboratory,” said Joanne Roy, event co-chair. “Students are gaining practical experience in everything from water quality research to developing marketing and advertising strategies. There is also an emphasis on sustainability, with efforts to incorporate soy biobased products and to conserve water and electricity. Net profits from the course already go toward student scholarships. This summer golf event is another way that we can assist students financially.”

Registration for the Blueberry Classic is $75 per person and requested by July 15. Additional information and registration forms are available at www.nmu.edu/BlueberryClassic. Questions can be emailed to bclassic@nmu.edu.