My name is Kaile Batte, and I am a first-generation college student at Loyola University New Orleans. I was born into a blue-collar family that has made tremendous sacrifices to get me where I am today and open doors that may not have otherwise been available to me. I am deeply grateful to my parents, because their hard work is a big part of why I have these opportunities. I am also a collegiate golfer, and golf has shaped not only who I am but also who I hope to become. Through golf, I have learned discipline, perseverance, and how sport can connect people from different backgrounds. Golf has opened doors for me educationally that may not have been possible otherwise, and it has introduced me to people, relationships, and opportunities I may have never encountered in my everyday life. That is part of why golf is so important to me—it has changed my life, and I want to help it change the lives of others. I plan to use my unique talents by combining golf, entrepreneurship, and leadership to create opportunities for people who may not otherwise have access to the game, especially women. Through my own experience, I have seen that there are fewer opportunities for women golfers than there are for men, particularly in amateur competition. That reality has shaped my vision for the future. That is why I am studying marketing and advertising at Loyola University New Orleans. I want to build the knowledge and skills to start my own golf brand, create something meaningful within the industry, and ultimately use that success to help fund a women’s amateur tour. My long-term goal is to create more opportunities for women golfers to compete, gain exposure, and access the kind of doors golf can open. I hope to use golf, business, and the relationships the game creates not only to succeed personally, but also to help grow the game, support women in golf, and create opportunities that bring people together. I may not be the one finding the next cure for cancer, but I hope to create opportunities that open doors for others because helping someone access education and opportunity may empower them to make the world a better place. To me, empathy is not just understanding others; it is using your talents to build something that helps others move forward. If I can create opportunities that help even one person access a better future, then I have contributed to building a more understanding and hopeful world.

I enjoy playing golf because it is a game that is never the same and always a challenge. One day you can be on top, and the next you can be at the bottom. It has its highs and lows, and that is part of what makes it so rewarding. Golf demands discipline, challenges my mental game, and constantly pushes me to grow. It has taught me how to adjust, persevere, and keep going when things get hard. This past school year has been especially tough for me as a collegiate golfer. I did not qualify for one tournament due to a medical procedure over the summer that messed up my swing path. It made me question if I should even continue with the sport. But instead of giving up, I have worked even harder off the course to get my swing back so that next season I can come back even stronger. This summer, I plan to put my skills to the test by competing in tournaments. One real challenge I have faced as a female amateur golfer is the lack of competitive opportunities for women, especially compared to men. In my state, for example, there is the Gulf States PGA for men, but there is not an equivalent opportunity for women. What makes that especially frustrating is that as a junior, both boys and girls had opportunities through the junior Gulf States PGA. But as an adult amateur, those opportunities no longer exist in the same way for women. That gap has made it much harder to find meaningful events, including tournaments recognized by the World Amateur Golf Ranking. This summer, I have only found two tournaments to play in, and one requires traveling nine hours just to compete. Most of the tournaments listed for women are state-based, meaning you have to live in that state to play in them. For a female amateur golfer trying to develop through competition, that is a real challenge. Rather than discouraging me, this has made me more determined. It has also shaped a bigger vision I have for helping create more opportunities for women and girls in golf, because I have experienced firsthand where those gaps exist. That challenge has not weakened my passion for the game—it has strengthened both my commitment to compete and my desire to help grow the game for others. One day, I hope to create a tour made up of tournaments specifically for amateur women golfers, giving players more opportunities to compete, develop, and pursue the game at a high level.

1. Outside of golf and academics, I invest my time into creative entrepreneurship. I am currently working on designing my own golf brand, which should open doors for me to further my dreams of starting a junior women's golf league locally. 2. I am currently studying mass communications with a concentration in advertising and a minor in marketing. The reason I am studying this is that I can effectively market my golf brand and learn the tools of using AI and other software to reach audiences through social media. 3. I plan to give back by using golf as a vehicle to create opportunities for others. One of my biggest goals is to help expand access for junior girls in golf, especially in places where affordable, high-level competitive opportunities are limited. I hope to mentor younger players, support junior golf initiatives, and eventually help organize events that give girls more exposure and opportunity. During college, I also hope to give back through service, mentorship, and being involved in programs that support younger students and athletes. Beyond college, I want my impact to extend beyond my own career by building something that helps others pursue opportunities I know can be difficult to access. Giving back, to me, means creating pathways for others, not just succeeding individually. 4. Receiving this scholarship would have a meaningful impact on me academically, athletically, and personally. Financially, it would help ease the burden of educational expenses and allow me to focus more fully on balancing academics and the demands of collegiate golf. That support would create greater stability and allow me to invest more energy into performing at a high level in both the classroom and on the course. Athletically, it would support my ability to continue competing and developing without as much financial pressure tied to the costs that often come with being a student-athlete. Personally, the mentorship component is equally valuable to me. Learning from experienced mentors who understand both golf and life beyond college would provide guidance that could help shape my growth as both a player and a future leader. This scholarship would not only support me financially but also help strengthen the foundation for what I hope to contribute to the game long term. 5. One of the hardest moments of adversity I have faced has been this season. After coming back from a medical procedure, I was not able to play in a single tournament because I had to rebuild my swing and work my way back into form. What made it especially difficult was not a lack of belief in my ability but knowing I had the skill to compete and still not being able to produce the results I expected from myself. Not qualifying was heartbreaking. Golf is such a mental game, and this season brought a level of mental pressure I had never experienced before. I put pressure on myself because I know what I am capable of, and it was difficult carrying the weight of trying to return to that level while feeling like my game was not fully there yet. There were days I felt discouraged, days I questioned whether I would get my swing back, and days I wanted to give up entirely. It is hard to keep believing when your confidence feels shaken and the results are not matching the work you are putting in. But this experience forced me to grow. I had to learn how to manage pressure instead of letting it control me. I had to trust the process when I could not yet trust the scorecard. I kept practicing, kept rebuilding, and kept choosing not to quit, even when quitting felt easier. Now, after intense training, I am preparing to compete in high-level tournaments this summer as a women’s amateur, hopeful that my game is coming back and that the work I have put in will show. This experience taught me that resilience is not just physical endurance but mental toughness. It is staying committed under pressure, continuing through uncertainty, and refusing to let setbacks define you. This season challenged me deeply, but it also strengthened my perseverance, humility, and belief in myself in a way success alone never could.

My name is Kailey Batte, and my story begins on the golf course. While many kids spent their afternoons in front of a screen, I spent mine hitting golf balls until the sun disappeared. Golf has been more than just a sport to me. It has shaped my identity, taught me the value of hard work, and helped define the kind of future I want to create. That future is not only for myself but also for others who share similar passions and face similar challenges. I was raised in a family that prioritized purpose and sacrifice. My parents did everything they could to support my passion for golf. They drove countless hours to tournaments, invested in lessons, and stood beside me through both victories and setbacks. Their support gave me a chance to pursue my dreams, and that opportunity is something I will never take for granted. I also understand that not every young girl with talent and determination has that same level of support. This realization has become the foundation for my future goals. My passion for golf is deeply tied to my vision for the future. I plan to create and operate a women’s amateur golf tour that is affordable, inclusive, and recognized by national junior golf ranking systems. This tour will serve as a platform for young women to compete, grow, and be seen. I want to eliminate the financial and systemic barriers that prevent girls from pursuing their potential. This mission was born from personal experience, and it continues to fuel my education and long-term career goals. I am currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in digital marketing and entrepreneurship at the University of Mobile. I am also a member of the Women’s Golf Team. I chose this path because I believe that business and marketing are powerful tools that can bring my vision to life. I also plan to join the university’s Digital Marketing Club in my freshman year to gain practical experience, collaborate with peers, and learn from professionals in the field. These experiences will help me develop the tools I need to promote the golf tour, attract sponsors, and reach the young athletes who need it most. In addition to the golf tour, I plan to launch a golf gear and apparel brand designed specifically for female golfers. This line will reflect both functionality and individuality. A portion of the proceeds will go toward helping girls fund their tournament fees and travel costs. By combining my passion for golf with digital marketing and entrepreneurship, I will be able to build something that has both a social and economic impact. This mission is personal. I currently mentor young golfers through the Kelly Gibson Foundation and have seen how powerful encouragement and opportunity can be in shaping lives. Through my education, athletic journey, and entrepreneurial drive, I am committed to creating long-lasting change and giving others a chance to succeed. Receiving this scholarship would relieve financial stress and allow me to stay focused on my education and vision. More importantly, it would support a dream that reaches far beyond myself. I am committed to using my platform to open doors, uplift others, and create meaningful opportunities through golf. Thank you for taking the time to consider my story and my application.

My name is Kailey Batte, and I am a student-athlete at the University of Mobile. I currently compete on the Women’s Golf Team while pursuing a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in digital marketing and entrepreneurship. From a young age, golf has meant more to me than just a sport. It has shaped my character, taught me discipline, and helped me discover a deeper sense of purpose. What began as a passion has now become a clear vision for how I want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Throughout my journey, my parents made many sacrifices to support my golf aspirations. Their dedication allowed me to participate in tournaments and access training that helped me grow as both an athlete and a young woman. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities they gave me, and I also understand that not every young golfer has access to that same level of support. That understanding has become my motivation. My ultimate goal is to create a junior and amateur women’s golf tour that is affordable, well-organized, and recognized by national junior golf ranking systems. This tour will give girls and young women the chance to compete, develop their skills, and gain exposure, even if they come from underserved or under-resourced backgrounds. My academic path is designed to help me bring this vision to life. Through my studies in business and digital marketing, I am learning how to build and grow brands, connect with online communities, and manage real-world marketing campaigns. I also plan to join the Digital Marketing Club during my freshman year to gain practical experience, collaborate with peers, and learn from professionals who are already making an impact in the industry. These experiences will directly support my efforts to promote the golf tour, secure sponsorships, and reach the young athletes who need it most. In addition to organizing the tour, I plan to launch a golf gear and apparel brand focused on women’s style and performance. The line will offer high-quality gloves, tees, and accessories that reflect both function and personality. I also plan to donate a portion of the brand’s profits to help cover entry fees and travel costs for young women who want to participate in the tour. With the world increasingly connected through social media, I believe that strong digital marketing skills will be essential to building awareness and growing both the brand and the impact it can have. This mission is close to my heart. I currently mentor junior golfers through the Kelly Gibson Foundation and have seen firsthand how encouragement and opportunity can inspire young athletes. My education, athletic experience, and entrepreneurial mindset are preparing me to be someone who not only gives back but also creates something lasting that others can build on in the future. Receiving this scholarship would relieve financial pressure and allow me to focus fully on my education and goals. More importantly, it would support a vision that reaches far beyond myself. I am committed to using my talents and training to open doors, empower others, and make a positive difference through the game of golf. Thank you for considering my application.

Golf isn’t just something I play, it’s my life! Every moment I’m not in school or working, I’m on the course, at the range, or on the putting green, relentlessly working to perfect my swing and sharpen my skills. While many spend their free time relaxing or scrolling on their phones, I’m chasing every opportunity to improve shot by shot. This game fuels my passion and pushes me to be stronger, sharper, and more focused every day. Golf has taught me discipline, resilience, and mental toughness, qualities that define who I am both on and off the course. As a female golfer, I’ve faced challenges that have only strengthened my resolve. One of the toughest hurdles has been being underestimated because of my gender. Time and again, I’ve encountered doubt, especially from male players, about my abilities. I’ll never forget the day at my local country club when I chose to play from the tips, the furthest tees, and watched the men around me exchange surprised looks. Then, when I outdrove them, their disbelief turned into respect. That moment wasn’t just about distance; it was about breaking stereotypes and proving that my size or gender doesn’t define my power or potential. I channel those moments of doubt into fuel, pushing me harder every day. Aging out of junior tournaments opened my eyes to another challenge: the scarcity of competitive opportunities for female golfers locally. Women’s amateur events are few and far between, often requiring long drives and expensive travel. Meanwhile, male golfers in my community enjoy a wider range of accessible competitions and teams. It’s frustrating to see this gap, but it only makes me more determined to succeed and advocate for greater equality in the sport. Being a petite player also means I have to invest in custom-made clubs, a costly but necessary commitment to stay competitive. Every dollar spent on the right equipment is a step closer to performing at my best, and I’m proud to make that investment in myself. One of the biggest challenges has been the limited number of college golf programs for women in Louisiana. While there are several strong men’s teams in my state, women have far fewer options. That’s why I’m incredibly fortunate and excited to continue my golf journey at the University of Mobile, where I’ll join their women’s golf team and compete at the collegiate level. Leaving home to chase this dream hasn’t been easy, but it’s a choice I make every day with passion and purpose. Giving back to the golf community is also deeply important to me. I mentor junior golfers through the Kelly Gibson Foundation, sharing what I’ve learned and encouraging younger players, especially girls, to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. Helping others develop their skills and confidence reminds me that golf is more than just a game; it’s a way to build community and inspire the next generation. Despite all the obstacles, I refuse to let anything hold me back. Golf is my passion, my drive, and my future. The PrimePutt Scholarship would be more than financial support, it would be a powerful reminder that the hard work, sacrifices, and love I pour into this game are recognized and valued. I am committed to paving the way for more girls and women to find their place and voice in golf, just as I continue to find mine.

Golf has not only shaped me into a better athlete but has also taught me the most important life lessons that continue to guide me both on and off the course. The biggest lesson I’ve learned from golf is the importance of patience and resilience. Golf is a sport where every shot counts, and each round presents a unique challenge. The course, much like life, is filled with obstacles, setbacks, and unpredictable circumstances. How you respond to these challenges is what truly matters. Are you going to throw your clubs and throw a fit from a bad shot or round, or Are you going to evaluate yourself, improve yourself and get back out there? Throughout my journey in golf, I’ve faced moments of frustration and self doubt, but it is in those moments that I learned the value of perseverance. Whether it was adjusting to an unpredictable weather pattern during a tournament or overcoming the pressure of a high stakes shot, golf has taught me that success is not always immediate and it requires practice, patience, and a belief in the process. This understanding has not only made me a better golfer but has shaped my approach to every challenge in my life, from academics to personal growth. The most significant lesson golf has instilled in me is how to embrace failure and learn from it. In golf, it’s impossible to play perfectly every time, but every misstep offers an opportunity for growth. I’ve learned to stay focused and positive, even when things don’t go according to plan. This ability to bounce back from setbacks has prepared me for the challenges of life, especially as I plan to pursue a college education and navigate the future ahead. As a first generation college student, I know that the path ahead won’t always be easy, but the lessons I’ve learned from golf will be my foundation. I have learned never to give up and hard work. I have learned that even when you put in the work, it doesn't always go the way you want it to; but that doesn't mean you give up. It means that you evaluate yourself and think about ways to improve and then implement that. Then you go back out there and try again. Golf has taught me the value of working toward something greater than myself, and I plan to bring those lessons to the University of Mobile while playing collegiate golf for them. I plan on studying business and marketing in order create a high level junior local tour. Through this scholarship, I hope to honor Tom LoCasale’s legacy by continuing to help future junior golfers. My dream is to start an affordable high level junior golf tour along with Gulf Coast and make it affordable and accessible. It is tough to be able to attend tournaments that are more than two hours away which most Junior Score Board Ranked tournaments are. My goal is to give opportunities to junior golfers whose goal is to play collegiate golf.

1. While I would love to be more involved in extracurricular activities outside of golf, my schedule is extremely demanding. I’m currently a dual-enrolled student maintaining a 4.0 GPA in college-level courses, while also training and traveling regularly for golf tournaments. On top of that, I work part time at Nothing Bundt Cakes, which has taught me valuable time management, communication, and customer service skills. Even with such a full schedule, I still find ways to give back when I can. During the summer, I volunteer by mentoring younger golfers on the Kelly Gibson Junior Golf Tour. I help them navigate tournaments and the rules of play. It’s something I truly enjoy because I remember what it felt like to be a beginner, and I love being able to support and encourage the next generation of players. Although I don’t have time to participate in many traditional extracurricular activities, the combination of academics, golf, work, and mentoring has helped shape who I am. It’s taught me the value of commitment, leadership, and making time for what matters even when life gets busy. Even though I don’t have the time to participate in many traditional extracurricular activities, the experiences I gain from school, golf, and work have helped me grow in discipline, communication, and leadership. I’ve learned how to stay committed, even under pressure, and how to make the most of the time I have. These experiences are preparing me for the challenges of college and beyond, and I’m proud of the balance I’ve been able to maintain. 2. In college, I am interested in studying business and marketing. I’ve always been drawn to the creative side of business and coming up with ideas, building brands, and finding ways to connect with people. Marketing will allow me to combine strategy with creativity, and I believe it’s a skill that can be applied in so many different areas, including the world of sports. One of my biggest goals is to use what I learn in college to start a local high level junior golf tour. Right now, many of the top ranked junior tournaments are out of town and can be extremely expensive to attend due to travel, lodging, and entry fees. This creates a barrier for talented players who may not have the resources to compete at that level. I want to create a tour in southern Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast that brings those competitive opportunities closer to home making them more affordable, accessible, and inclusive for junior golfers in the region. It would not only give more players a chance to grow and get noticed but also strengthen the local golf community. Studying business and marketing will give me the tools to turn this idea into something real and impactful. 3. I plan to give back to my community both during college and after graduation by creating more opportunities for young athletes, especially in golf. My long term goal is to launch a high level junior golf tour in Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast that is affordable, accessible, and Junior Golf Scoreboard ranked. Right now, many talented junior golfers have to travel out of state or more than four hours from home in order to compete in top tier events, which can be expensive and limit opportunities for families who can’t afford the costs. I want to change that by bringing competitive events closer to home and keeping them affordable, so more players can chase their goals without financial barriers holding them back. While in college, I also hope to stay involved locally by mentoring younger players, helping at junior clinics, or working with community golf programs. I want to be someone younger girls can look up to and someone who proves that hard work, perseverance, and a love for the game can take you far, no matter where you come from. Giving back through golf is important to me because it’s given me so much. I want to pass that on and help build a stronger, more inclusive golf community in southern Louisiana and beyond. 4. Being a recipient of the Hulede Collegiate Golf Scholarship would have a meaningful impact on my college experience, both financially and personally. Currently, I will be attending the University of Mobile on a partial athletic scholarship, which helps, but it doesn’t cover all of my expenses. This means I will have to take on a part time job while balancing a full course load and a demanding golf schedule along with private student loans. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my academics and performance on the golf course without the constant stress of how to make ends meet. What excites me most about this opportunity is not just the financial support, but also the mentorship that comes with it. As a student athlete, having access to mentors who understand the unique challenges of collegiate golf would be incredibly valuable. I’m always looking for ways to grow both personally and professionally, and I believe this mentorship could help guide me through college and into my future career. This scholarship would support my journey as I pursue a degree in business and marketing, and work toward my goal of launching a high level junior golf tour in Louisiana to create more affordable opportunities for young golfers like myself. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.

Why does anyone deserve a scholarship or award? Scholarships recognize qualities that are challenging to cultivate: resilience, determination, and a commitment to service. They honor individuals who have worked hard to overcome obstacles, pursue personal growth, and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. I believe I am a worthy candidate for the Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship because I embody these qualities, and I am committed to making a positive impact in my community and beyond. As a student-athlete, I have faced a variety of academic and personal challenges. I was diagnosed with a learning disability, which initially made schooling feel like a daunting journey. With determination and hard work, I’ve learned to navigate my academic path, maintaining strong grades and successfully enrolling in dual-credit courses. I will graduate high school with 20 college credits, which has prepared me well for the challenges of higher education. Despite my disability, I have learned to embrace academic challenges and strive for growth, proving that perseverance can lead to meaningful progress. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am committed to advancing my athletic goals as a golfer. Committed to the University of Mobile for Fall 2025, my ultimate goal is to win the NAIA championship in my division. Golf has been transformative for me; it has introduced me to a diverse network of people and helped me develop skills such as patience, discipline, and mental resilience. I practice daily to sharpen my skills, and I am continually setting higher goals. Golf has taught me that hard work and dedication lead to success, both on and off the course. Beyond academics and athletics, I have a deep appreciation for community service. Volunteering with the Arc of Greater New Orleans, where I work with adults with disabilities, has enriched my life in ways I never expected. The experience has taught me the importance of inclusivity, compassion, and supporting individuals in reaching their potential. Seeing the joy and fulfillment in those I work with has inspired me to continue giving back, and I plan to incorporate community service into my future as much as possible. I am a strong candidate for the Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship because I carry forward the values of resilience, leadership, and service. This scholarship would be an invaluable support, enabling me to continue my academic and athletic pursuits and amplifying my ability to make a difference. It would empower me to honor the veteran community by raising awareness for their contributions, sharing their stories, and inspiring others to support the vital work they do. The Samuel D. Hartley Memorial Scholarship would be both an honor and an inspiration, motivating me to carry on serving, learning, and leading within my community.

The veteran in my life, my grandfather, has profoundly shaped who I am today. Serving 32 years in the Air Force, he became the first African American to reach the rank of Chief Master Sergeant at Belle Chase Air Force Base, standing as a pioneer on that base. He served in both Vietnam and the Gulf War, dedicating himself entirely to his country. After his military career, he continued his commitment to helping others by teaching ROTC at Higgins High School, where he mentored at-risk youth through a club called Boys to Men. He helped young men in the community stay away from gangs and aim for higher goals, guiding them toward military service or college. Watching his dedication taught me the value of resilience, discipline, and the power of uplifting others. His example has shown me how a single person’s influence can change lives, and he’s instilled in me the drive to follow a similar path of service and commitment. As a female golfer committed to the University of Mobile for Fall 2025, golf has been transformative in my life. Beyond the technical skills, golf has allowed me to meet people from all walks of life, each with stories that broaden my perspective. I enjoy mentoring younger players and seeing them start their own journeys in golf. Recently, while on the course, I played with a man who was new to golf but had a unique story. He shared his experiences in the military, his college football career, and how he transitioned into digital marketing after college. Starting as a freelancer, he worked his way up to a successful position in a supplement company. Hearing his story and passion for digital marketing helped me solidify my own decision. I had been considering either digital marketing or cybersecurity, but after our conversation, I realized digital marketing aligns with my strengths and interests. This was just one of the many instances where golf has brought unexpected guidance into my life. I started golf after my gymnastics career ended when I was 12 years old. I have been playing for five years now. I practice golf every day, striving to improve and grow toward my ultimate goal: winning the NAIA championship and becoming All American in my division when I begin college. This sport has taught me dedication, and I’m fully committed to making this dream a reality. If awarded this scholarship, I would be honored to promote the veteran community and the foundation as I progress on my journey. Veterans like my grandfather have made sacrifices that deserve recognition and respect, and I would be proud to amplify their stories and raise awareness for their contributions. I hope to inspire others to value the strength of the veteran community and join in supporting their invaluable work.