When the final putt dropped at the 2026 2nd Annual Strokes of Genius Charity Golf Tournament, presented by AX Enterprize, the impact extended far beyond the golf course.
On June 1, golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners gathered at Rome Country Club, generating more than $32,000 in community investment through sponsorships, donations, in-kind support, and volunteer contributions. That commitment strengthens Griffiss Institute’s long-term ability to advance its mission of elevating STEM talent, empowering innovation, and enabling experiences.
This year’s tournament brought together 68 golfers, 29 sponsors, 33 community partners, and 9 volunteers, demonstrating broad community support for Griffiss Institute and its mission.
Every golfer, sponsor, volunteer, and community partner contributed to something larger than a day on the course. Together, they demonstrated what happens when a community supports the people and ideas that strengthen its future. That investment is what we call The Griffiss Effect.
The Griffiss Effect occurs when community participation strengthens talent, accelerates innovation, and creates lasting value for the Mohawk Valley and the nation.
“The success of Strokes of Genius reflects a community that understands meaningful progress that doesn’t happen through one organization alone. It happens when businesses, nonprofits, educators, volunteers, and individuals choose to invest in a shared mission”, said Melissa Tallman, chief brand and advancement officer, Griffiss Institute. “We’re grateful to everyone who made that commitment this year.”
Proceeds from Strokes of Genius strengthen Griffiss Institute’s long-term philanthropic resources, helping build the capacity to grow programs, expand strategic partnerships, and respond to emerging opportunities as the organization continues to evolve.
Griffiss Institute extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors, volunteers, players, and community partners whose generosity and collaboration made the 2026 Strokes of Genius Charity Golf Tournament possible. Their support reflects a shared commitment to strengthening talent, advancing innovation, and investing in the future of the Mohawk Valley.
Presenting Sponsor
AX Enterprize
Gold Sponsor
First Source Federal Credit Union
Supporting Sponsors
Strategic Financial Services, Brown & Brown, Michael Best, AGELISS Aesthetics, J.W. Mecca, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Paul and Leah Bishop and Family, Mohawk Valley EDGE, NBT Bank, Play It Again Sports, Copper City Brewing, Project Fibonacci Foundation, McCraith Beverages, PeopleTec, Quanterion, Hage & Hage LLC, BBSA Insurance, M.A. Polce, Davidson Auto Group, IonQ, and The Women’s Fund of Herkimer and Oneida Counties.
In-Kind Sponsors and Community Partners
Sentinel Media Co., Ramon’s Bakery, A&P Master Images, PJ Green, Printing 4 Super Cheap, Hannaford, Terry “Mojo” Johnson, FMN Creative, Mastrovito Hyundai, and Firestorm.
Interested in becoming a partner in Griffiss Institute’s mission?
