Caption: Crystal Sutton, Morning Pointe of Athens executive director, with the Golf Tournament banner
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For Crystal Sutton, executive director at Morning Pointe of Athens Assisted Living, organizing the annual Mastering Memory Care Golf Tournament isn’t just about a day on the greens—it’s about watching lives transform.
“This tournament brings our whole community together,” said Sutton. “It’s about giving opportunities to nursing students right here in our hometown and ensuring that seniors tomorrow have the compassionate care they deserve.”
Golfers Tee Off to Support the Next Generation of Nurses
Now in its seventh year, the tournament is set to return on Tuesday, June 25, at Springbrook Golf & Country Club in nearby Niota. Dozens of local golfers and businesses have already begun signing up to play—and to give.
The tournament benefits the Morning Pointe Foundation, a nonprofit that provides clinical scholarships for nursing students and funds caregiver education at partner schools. Over the years, thanks to tournaments like this one, more than 146 scholarships have been awarded—many to local students at TCAT Athens, Tennessee Wesleyan University, and Cleveland State.
“I have seen the impact these scholarships have made over the years because of this tournament,” said Miranda Perez, executive director of the Morning Pointe Foundation. “With the cost of education rising and the worldwide nursing shortage, supporting students right here at home is addressing a true need. Thank you to everyone who has contributed in the past and those who are joining us this year. If you love golf, or if you love to support deserving students… or both, join us for this tournament.”
Breaking Records and Building Futures
Last year’s tournament raised a record-breaking $18,800—and organizers hope to beat that number this summer.
The event will begin with registration and breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m. and a luncheon and awards banquet at 1 p.m. There are still openings for golfers, sponsors, and prize donors.
“We’re not just putting on a golf tournament,” Sutton added. “We’re growing a new generation of caregivers—right here in McMinn County.”
To register or support the cause, contact Crystal Sutton at 423-836-3317 or Athens-ed@morningpointe.com.
About Morning Pointe
The Morning Pointe Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Morning Pointe Senior Living. Founded in 1997 by Tennessee healthcare entrepreneurs Greg A. Vital and Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living operates 41 assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in five southeastern states, including several in the Chattanooga and Knoxville areas. For more information, visit morningpointe.com.
