Glenview, Ill. –The First Tee of Greater Chicago today announced that Pat Goss, Director of Golf and Player Development at Northwestern University for both the men’s and women’s programs, has been elected as President of the Board of Governors. He replaces Bruce Patterson after seven years of service.

Goss has previously been recognized as a Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher in America and was named the 2012 Illinois PGA Teacher of the Year. He is currently in his 24th season coaching and teaching at Northwestern, and is the coach for PGA TOUR professional Luke Donald, after being his collegiate coach from 1997-2001. Goss has served on The First Tee of Greater Chicago’s Board since 2008 acting as the Vice President for many years before taking over as President. In his time with The First Tee, he has played an integral role in the execution of Luke Donald’s Taste of The First Tee, a wine tasting benefit. Since its inception, the event has raised nearly $2M to support youth development programs focused on teaching values and healthy habits through the game of golf.

“Pat is a well-known and respected professional in the golf industry, his experience and leadership will be invaluable in helping us reach our goals to expand our programs, develop facilities for youth development and make a positive and lasting impact on the youth we serve throughout the Chicagoland area” said Lisa Quinn, The First Tee of Greater Chicago Executive Director.
“I have truly enjoyed my time on the board the past eight years, and am honored to have been selected to lead this group of professionals as we accomplish our aggressive expansion and fundraising goals and continue to make an impact on area youth,” said Goss.

Goss succeeds Bruce Patterson, Director of Golf at Butler National Golf Club, who has served as President for The First Tee of Greater Chicago since 2009 and has helped grow the Chapter from five program locations in the city to 17 green grass facilities throughout the Chicagoland area, and established an outreach program that is reaching an estimated 40,000 young people.

“Bruce’s contributions to The First Tee of Greater Chicago are immeasurable, and we owe him a huge debt of gratitude. On behalf of the board and our entire organization, I want to thank him for the impact he has made in the golf community,” said Quinn.