JIM CLAXTON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund was initiated in 2011 in order to honor Jim and his contributions to the Mid-Atlantic turfgrass industry, while financially supporting students in pursuit of a college degree.
Jim worked as a salesman for Newsom Seed from the early 1990’s until shortly before his passing in 2013. He made great contributions to turfgrass-related businesses during this period, especially businesses directly involved in turf production.
The Jim Claxton Scholarship fund allows for up to $1,500 to be issued to winning applicant(s) prior to the Fall college semester. Previous winners of the Jim Claxton Scholarship may re-apply. Preference may be given to students enrolled in a turfgrass related field or with experience in turfgrass production.
Click below to apply!
Congratulations to our 2026 scholarship recipient!
Sam Hjortland is from Stoughton, Wisconsin, and is currently enrolled in Penn State University’s Golf Course Turfgrass Management Program. His interest in the turfgrass industry began while working on the grounds crew at Stoughton Country Club, where he spent four years gaining hands-on experience in golf course maintenance and operations.
During his time at Stoughton Country Club, Sam developed a strong appreciation for the preparation, teamwork, and attention to detail required to maintain quality playing conditions. That experience helped him realize that turfgrass management was the career path he wanted to pursue.
Sam is spending the 2026 season as an Agronomy Intern at Shoreacres in Lake Bluff, Illinois. Through his education at Penn State and his internship experience, he is continuing to build his knowledge of agronomy, irrigation, turf health, and golf course management.
Sam’s career goal is to become a golf course superintendent and continue growing within the golf course industry. He hopes to use his education, work experience, and passion for the game to become a strong leader in the turfgrass profession.
Past Scholarship Recipients
Jackson Moore
Jack Cundiff
Ava Veith
Colson Bates
Colson Bates
Colson Bates
Colson Bates
Colson Bates
This website uses cookies.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.