UWF’s Business Enterprises, Inc. has finalized the purchase of Scenic Hills Country Club. According to UWF press announcement, the purchase will generate a new revenue stream for UWF, as well as enhance experiential education for University students.
The 6,730-yard championship course is 150 acres and 18-holes, with a Jerry Pate design. Additionally, the course includes a 12,550 sq. ft. clubhouse constructed in 2008, as well as ancillary support buildings. Scenic Hills Country Club is located adjacent to the University of West Florida.
“The purchase of Scenic Hills Country Club offers tremendous opportunities for the University and community,” said Matthew Altier, CEO of Business Enterprises Inc. “We will operate a first-class golf course and country club that will offer enhanced services for current and future members and real-world experiences for UWF’s hospitality, sports management, exercise science, athletics, recreation, business, finance and other academic units.”
BEI plans to retain all current Scenic Hills Country Club employees through the transition. “It’s an exciting time here at Scenic Hills,” said Rick Gorman, general manager of Scenic Hills Country Club. “This partnership will enhance the current services and opportunities offered to our members and residents, as well as strengthen the UWF and local communities. I am proud to continue working at Scenic Hills, and look forward to all of our future improvements.”
No University or State funds were used for the purchase. The purchase of Scenic Hills Country Club is a venture of BEI, a nonprofit corporation created in 2011 with a goal of pursuing effective public-private partnerships for the University, as well as creating new services and increasing alternate sources of revenue to support and enhance the campus.