The NIGM was established in 1984 by the National Golf Foundation (NGF) and Oglebay. As of 2005, NIGM is presented by NGF and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). 

NGF provides support in the development of the curriculum for the Academy of Operation Solutions from NGF's Golf Managers Handbook, and also provides a golf industry overview with updated statistics on the state of the industry.

GCSAA serves as an education partner to the Institute and assists in the review and development of curriculum for the Academies to ensure it meets the needs of golf course superintendents and golf course management professionals alike.

In a dynamic partnership, the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the National Training Center for Public Facility Managers at Oglebay Resort and Conference Center (NTC), are joining forces to enhance the National Institute of Golf Management (NIGM). According to NRPA this new partnership will expand their array of educational offerings and specifically target the needs of members with public golf facilities. "NRPA offers more than a dozen national education events annually," said John Thorner, NRPA Executive Director. "Partnering with Oglebay on this and other education offerings allows us to provide targeted learning opportunities for our members and those in the park and recreation profession. With Oglebay's focus and NRPA's reach, we believe that this partnership will assist in delivering a well-rounded education experience."

Rich Richeson, owner of Adams Golf Learning Centers in and Sportcrete in Texas, and NIGM Chairman of the Board said, "NRPA is an outstanding organization with a longstanding history of educational excellence. The NIGM is thrilled to have them as a partner and are looking forward to providing their members with a unique learning experience!"

The National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of more than 20,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy lifestyles, recreation initiatives, and conservation of natural and cultural resources.

Headquartered in Ashburn, Va., NRPA works closely with local, state and national recreation and park agencies, citizen groups and corporations to carry out its objectives. Priorities include advocating favorable legislation and public policy; continuing education for park and recreation professionals and citizens; providing professional certification, university accreditation, research and technical assistance; and increasing public awareness of the importance of parks and recreation. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org.

Click here to read the complete press release on the NRPA/NIGM partnership.