The UT Tyler Patriot Golf Classic is just a few weeks away. Every year, local businesses raise thousands of dollars, and it all stays right here in East Texas.
Alan Jones said he gets goose bumps watching students receive scholarships from money he and others help raise. Jones is the chairman of the tournament's board, and he donates money each year to help dozens of students pay for college at UT Tyler.
"The stress they have to go through to pay for college. When you can provide them with an avenue for them to actually give them a scholarship - just the smile on their face when they receive it," he said.
This is the first year the board is giving away both a full and half scholarship, on top of the dozens worth hundreds of dollars given out every year.
Over the past 31 years, donors like Jones contributed a total of $2 million, all going towards scholarships for UT Tyler students.
The 2016 Patriot Golf Classic alone raised $175,029.97.
Jones said this tournament holds a special place in his heart. His father graduated from UT Tyler in the 70's, and he finds motivation in keeping his legacy alive.
"I can give a scholarship with my father's name on it that will always be there, no matter what, and that makes me happy," he said.
The classic is on Monday, May 22 at the Hollytree Country Club. For additional information, contact Tabitha Ostmeyer at UT Tyler by email at tostmeyer@uttyler.edu or phone at (903) 566-7455.