Chippewa Valley Times

The recent U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills in Wisconsin showcased the strong collaboration between the championship golf course and the University of Wisconsin-Stout's golf enterprise management program. The tournament, which drew top golfers from 30 countries, relied on UW-Stout alumni and students for behind-the-scenes roles.

Kris Schoonover, a professor emeritus who played a significant role in developing the connection between Erin Hills and UW-Stout, expressed her satisfaction with the event: “I really enjoyed that everybody, meaning the world, had their eyes on Erin Hills and saw what we see each day.” Approximately 45,000 attendees visited Erin Hills during the tournament.

Maja Stark from Sweden emerged victorious after four days of competition held from May 29 to June 1. Schoonover has been involved with both UW-Stout and Erin Hills since 2006 and was recently promoted to co-general manager at the course. Several former students now work alongside her at Erin Hills.

Sam Ohnesorge, a 2016 UW-Stout graduate and director of food and beverage at Erin Hills, commented on hosting such a high-profile event: “There’s a buzz and an excitement around the property...You see all hands on deck.” During the tournament, Ohnesorge managed food operations across three locations serving hundreds daily.

Robert Leist, another UW-Stout alumnus working as director of lodging and golf at Erin Hills, oversaw competitors’ practice areas. He noted the challenge but also fulfillment in managing major championships: “You know what you’re signing up for when you get a major championship...the enjoyment comes when the job’s done.”

UW-Stout sophomore Calvin Neff interned during the Open. His tasks included assisting with practice range operations. Neff valued these experiences as part of his education: “I definitely had some good experiences,” he said.

Andrew Delong, Director of UW-Stout’s GEM Program, emphasized real-world learning opportunities provided by partnerships with courses like Erin Hills: “These opportunities culminate in a deep understanding of gracious hospitality and guest-focused service.”

Both Ohnesorge and Leist credited their careers to UW-Stout’s applied-learning approach through internships. Leist mentioned how essential it is for students to engage outside their comfort zones early on.

Reflecting on her career transition from teaching to co-managing at Erin Hills while mentoring former students now colleagues, Schoonover remarked on their passion: "They were very passionate about the work that they did."

Schoonover plans to continue fostering relationships between UW-Stout students and Erin Hills for future opportunities: “Our hope is to continue to open doors for UW-Stout students...to use these two as mentors.”