First Tee-Upstate names Michael Pius as CEO

An organization that works to build life skills in young people through golf has a new chief executive.

First Tee-Upstate South Carolina promoted of Michael Pius from executive director to CEO, citing his leadership and the organization’s growth over the past nine and a half years.

Since joining the chapter in 2017, Pius has led First Tee-Upstate South Carolina through a period of expansion. Under his leadership, the organization has grown from a single full-time employee to a team of four dedicated professionals serving thousands of young people annually across the Upstate, according to a news release.

The chapter has expanded its programming from three counties to seven across the Upstate, strengthened community partnerships, increased philanthropic support, and broadened access to First Tee’s character-building and golf-based youth development programs, the release said.

The change in title reflects the evolution of the organization and Pius’ responsibilities in leading its long-term strategic vision, fundraising, community engagement, financial stewardship and growth, according to the organization.

“Michael’s leadership has transformed First Tee-Upstate South Carolina into one of the region’s premier youth development organizations,” Terry Willis, co-chair of the board, said in the release. “His vision, commitment to excellence, and passion for serving young people have positioned the chapter for continued success. The board is excited for the future of this chapter and the impact it will have on our community with Michael continuing to lead the way.”

Throughout his tenure, Pius has championed initiatives that have increased access to First Tee programming for youth from all backgrounds while emphasizing the organization’s mission of building character, confidence, and resilience through golf. The chapter has consistently achieved record participation, expanded school and community partnerships, and strengthened relationships with donors, volunteers, golf facilities and corporate partners throughout the Upstate, the release said.

“It is an incredible honor to serve an organization that changes lives every day,”  Pius said in the release. “This title reflects not only my role, but the tremendous work of our board of directors, staff, coaches, volunteers, donors, and community partners who make our mission possible. Together, we are preparing young people for whatever comes next by helping them pursue their goals, grow through challenging experiences, collaborate with others, build positive self-identity and how to use good judgment. I am excited to continue leading First Tee-Upstate South Carolina into its next chapter of growth and impact.”

A PGA of America Golf Professional with more than 20 years of experience in the golf industry, Pius has dedicated his career to positively impacting young people through the game of golf. Under his leadership, First Tee-Upstate South Carolina has become recognized for innovative programming, strong participant outcomes, and meaningful community partnerships that continue to expand opportunities for youth throughout the region, according to the release. Pius also helped to launch programs such as the Els for Autism #GameON Programming, LPGA/USGA Girls Golf and player development initiatives like PGA Jr. League and Operation36.

As CEO, Pius will continue working closely with the board to advance the organization’s strategic priorities, strengthen philanthropic support, expand programming across the Upstate, and ensure First Tee remains a leading youth development organization in the Upstate of South Carolina, the First Tee said in the release.

First Tee is a nonprofit organization dedicated to impacting the lives of young people in Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Pickens, Oconee and Spartanburg counties.