Record-Setting Mike Bowling Golf Classic Raises More Than $34,000 for Southeast Students

Members of the Bowling family pose together at the Mike Bowling Memorial Golf Tournament, celebrating a legacy of perseverance, service, and educational opportunity for future generations. (Photo submitted)

MIDDLESBORO, Ky. – The Southeast Education Foundation raised a record-setting $34,000-plus through the annual Mike Bowling Golf Classic, bringing together golfers, sponsors, alumni, and community supporters to support student emergency assistance and campus needs at Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College's Middlesboro Campus.

This year's tournament was especially meaningful as the event was renamed in honor of Mike Bowling, a longtime champion of Southeast and the people of the region. Family members and friends joined participants in celebrating his legacy of service, education, and community development.

"Mike believed deeply in Southeast Kentucky and understood that education changes lives," said Dr. Rebecca Johnson, Vice Chancellor of Student Services and Middlesboro Campus Director. "This record-setting tournament reflects the generosity of our community and the same commitment Mike demonstrated throughout his life. Every sponsorship, donation, and registration helps create opportunities for students to achieve their educational and career goals."

Bowling's impact can still be seen throughout the college and the communities Southeast serves. Throughout his career, he advocated for student success, supported economic development initiatives, and worked tirelessly to strengthen the quality of life across the region. 

Tournament participants gather for the official kickoff of the newly renamed Mike Bowling Golf Classic. The event opened with a special introduction recognizing Mike Bowling’s lasting legacy and the continued impact of the scholarship established in his memory. (Photo submitted)

Prior to the tournament, participants heard from several of the event's presenting sponsors, who reflected on the importance of supporting students and investing in Southeast Kentucky's future. Representative Adam Bowling, speaking on behalf of the Bowling Family and as Mike Bowling's son, shared memories of his father's commitment to education, community service, and regional progress. Dr. Neil Barry offered remarks on behalf of Coca-Cola Bottling Company and a close friend of the family, and Dustin Milaway, CEO of Y-12 Federal Credit Union, also addressed participants. Together, they highlighted the value of community partnerships in creating opportunities for local students.

The tournament featured 27 teams, with The Prescription Shoppe claiming first place. In a generous show of support, the team donated its prize winnings back to the Mike Bowling Golf Classic.

Golfers also participated in several on-course contests sponsored by local businesses. Michael Wilson won the Longest Drive competition, while Bethany Evans claimed Longest Female Drive, with both receiving 30-ounce YETI Travel Mugs donated by Tractor Supply. Marcia Yeary captured the Longest Putt title and received a 20-ounce YETI Tumbler, also donated by Tractor Supply. Chris Harris won the Closest to the Pin contest and received a $100 Walmart gift card. 

Tournament champions, team Village Shoppes, proudly hold their custom 3D-printed trophies following the Mike Bowling Memorial Golf Tournament. The trophies were created by Matt Warren in the SKCTC Ideas Center. Winners from left to right Tyler Harris, Garrett Bradley, Dick Nevils, Matt Gann. (Photo submitted)

The Southeast Education Foundation extends its appreciation to the tournament's presenting supporters, including The Bowling Family, Y-12 Federal Credit Union, and Coca-Cola Bottling Company, along with the many businesses and individuals who sponsored teams, holes, carts, and food; volunteered; and contributed to the event's success.

The Southeast Education Foundation extends special appreciation to Ed Harris, Chairman of the Southeast Education Foundation, whose leadership and dedication have helped strengthen the Foundation's impact and advance opportunities for Southeast students. Thanks are also extended to the Foundation Board of Directors, the Middlesboro Golf Committee, Maintenance & Operations, Matt Warren for crafting the tournament trophies, the Advancement & Public Relations team, and the many volunteers who worked behind the scenes to make the tournament possible.

Funds raised through the Mike Bowling Golf Classic support emergency student assistance and other initiatives that help students at the Middlesboro Campus overcome barriers, complete their education, and enter the workforce.

"The generosity of our sponsors, golfers, and community partners makes a lasting difference in the lives of our students," said Johnson. "Their investment helps ensure that students throughout our region have access to the education and training needed to build brighter futures."

The Southeast Education Foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College, securing private support to enhance educational opportunities and strengthen the college's impact throughout the region.