Rees Jones presents Graffis Award to Alex J Stuedemann, CGCS, at the 2023 GCSAA Show

At the 2023 GCSAA Conference and Trade Show, Rees Jones, “The Open Doctor,” founder of Rees Jones golf course design, along with Golfdom Editor-in-Chief Seth Jones, presented Alex J Stuedemann, CGCS, his 2022 Herb Graffis Businessperson of the Year Award.

Rees Jones (left) and Golfdom Editor-in-Chief Seth Jones (right) present Alex J. Stuedemann with the Herb Graffis Businessperson of the Year Award Photo: Golfdom Staff

“I’m humbled to receive such a great honor that represents such a strong individual that brought so much to our industry,” said Stuedemann. “Hopefully with what I’ve done so far in my career, I can continue to help build people up that maybe one day will receive this award.”

Golfdom named Stuedemann, former director of golf course maintenance at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Ill., and a current director of TPC agronomy for the PGA Tour, winner in recognition of his work in providing high-level playing conditions and mentoring others throughout his career.

In his eight-plus years as director of golf course maintenance at TPC Deere Run and five more as assistant superintendent, Stuedemann led 14 John Deere Classic tournaments. Stuedemann also made stops at TPC Twin Cities and TPC San Antonio over the course of his career.

Stuedemann joins ten others, including Golfdom columnist Alan FitzGerald, CGCS, MG, as those honored with the award named after Golfdom founder and World Golf Hall of Fame member, Herb Graffis.