columbia country club | chevy chase, md
ANNUAL REPORT
2026 2026 Annual Report | 1
2 | Columbia Country Club
Table of Contents From the Club President
04
Board of Governors
06
2026 Committees
07
From the Membership Committee
08
Welcome New Members
09
From the Budget & Finance Committee
10
From the Treasurer
11
From the Long Range Planning Committee
15
From the Building & Grounds Committee
16
From the House Committee
18
2026 Scrivener Award Recipient
19
From the Bowling Committee
20
From the Fitness Committee
21
From the Swim Committee
21
From the Green Committee
22
From the Golf Committee
23
From the Tennis Committee
26
From the Paddle Committee
28
From the Community Relations Committee
29
From the Columbia Foundation
30
Senior Staff
32
Columbia Employee Spotlight
33
In Memoriam
35
From the Club President Carolyn L. West It has been my honor and privilege to serve as the 56th President of Columbia Country Club for the past two years. As my term comes to an end, I am deeply grateful to my fellow members for all your support. I have been so fortunate to serve with this Board and want to thank each member for their service, thoughtful stewardship and camaraderie. I leave office with great optimism for Columbia’s future.
A Vision Became A Reality As I took office in 2024, the Club had just completed $30 million in improvements to our property. After 8 years of planning, designing, refining, funding and construction, the membership was rewarded for its patience, vision and trust with a beautifully renovated lower level, completion of the 2017 Golf Course Master Plan, and construction of the new golf course maintenance building. Together, we accomplished remarkable things, have renewed confidence in our ability to execute transformative changes and are poised to accomplish more in the future.
Financial Disciplines I am particularly pleased to report that the financial health of the Club remains strong. Addressing the Club’s long-term debt remains a primary focus. Our disciplined debt reduction approach has allowed us to reduce our debt from $15.8 million to $11.8 million over the last 3 years. At the same time, we were able to generate sufficient cash to tackle needed capital projects to maintain our golf course, clubhouse, and grounds. We spent over $1.2 million on capital projects this past year and have budgeted a similar amount for this coming fiscal 2027 year as well as setting aside funding for development of future projects. As is the experience with all Clubs, the cost of keeping our property updated, secure and in good working order has increased significantly in recent years. The Board is committed to building on our strong financial condition to ensure that the Club will always be in the best position to capitalize on future opportunities and defend against unforeseen challenges. 4 | Columbia Country Club
Developing the Next Mission With major projects completed on the Lower Level and the Club on firm financial footing, the Board has examined our property and identified three priorities that will guide our next phase of planning: a Clubhouse Master Plan, development of the East-West Highway properties, and a new Golf Course Master Plan. Clubhouse Master Plan. The Long Range Planning Committee under the leadership of Michael Lentz is developing a Clubhouse Master Plan for our beautiful Clubhouse. The Clubhouse Master Plan will provide a long term plan that identifies what repairs, replacements and improvements are needed to keep our property fresh, updated and in proper condition befitting a club of our stature and support the needs of the membership. East-West Highway Development. The Long Range Planning Committee has been examining the possibilities for the East West Highway properties to identify potential additional amenities and much needed parking.
The Committee will continue to pursue entitlements and design work in the upcoming year. The membership will be kept informed of progress and given opportunities to provide feedback as we move forward. Golf Course Master Plan. Focus continues on our spectacular golf course. Under the leadership of Richard Holland, the Golf Course Master Plan Committee, and course architect Joel Weiman, the process of developing a new Golf Course Master Plan started by evaluating any unfinished elements of the 2017 Golf Course Master Plan and then consider the possibilities. I’m pleased to report that a new Golf Course Master Plan has been approved by the Board earlier this year. Completion of the actual work will be done over the coming years as funding can be identified and in phases that minimize disruption to the membership.
The Board of Governors is committed to addressing these priorities while seeking input from the members. We promise continuing communication on progress.
Congratulations to our incoming President Tom Roginski, who I know will serve with great distinction. He has been a great partner to me, and with his sage judgement and love of Columbia, I can think of nobody better to lead us going forward. I would also like to recognize and thank our Club management team and staff, led by Bill Jankowski. During my time on the Board and as Club President, I have come to value Bill’s his expertise, judgement, and counsel. I cannot overstate Bill’s critical contributions to our continued success as a Club. Sincerely,
Carolyn L. West President Columbia Country Club
2026 Annual Report | 5
Board of Governors Carolyn L. West, President Thomas J. Roginski, First Vice President Michael T. Crilley, Second Vice President Ryan B. Angier,Treasurer Eileen C. Mayer, Secretary Michael D’Achille, Bowling Committee Michele M. Dombo, Building & Grounds Committee Patrick M. Rafferty, Communications Committee Matthew R. Stanton, Community Relations Committee Terri G. Smith, Fitness Committee Michael S. Mitchell, Golf Committee Nicholas S. Grubb, Green Committee Robert G. Dean, III, House Committee Matthew M. Wolf, Legal Committee Michael E. Lentz, Long Range Planning Committee Richard W. Holland, Master Plan Committee Carlos M. Molina, Membership Committee William B. LeBlanc, III, Tennis Committee Andrew M. Brancaccio, Paddle Tennis Committee Joshua M. Davis, Swim Committee Walter C. Pennington, Ex-Officio Geoffrey J. Gonella, Past Club President & Special Advisor
*governors noted in blue
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2026 Committes Bowling
Michael D’Achille, Chair Frank Birney Lori Shore Andrew Hill
Budget & Finance
Thomas Roginski, Chair Ryan Angier Terence Callahan Paddy Cullen Michael Crilley Patrick Judge Brian Lemek Michael Lentz Andrew Marcou Janene Mitchell Alfred Serafino John Sturm
Communications
Patrick Rafferty, Chair David Coriale
Community Relations Matthew Stanton, Chair Scott Beck Vincent Burke, IV Mary Donatelli Stephanie Farrell Geoffrey Gonella Kate Sullivan
Fitness
Terri Smith, Chair Bryan Crilley Davis Chip Fitzgerald Betsy Heidenberger Diane Mayer Eileen Mayer Pat Mufarrij Betsy Pothier Bill Russel Polly Sturm
Golf
Michael Mitchell, Chair Claire Carlin, Women’s Co-Chair Chris MacInnes, Women’s Co-Chair Josh Alkin Michael Bellaman Stephen Gordon Dan Hickey Doug Hurson Tim Kane Mat Lapinski Christina Miller Billy Peel Huan Tran
Green
Nick Grubb, Chair George Balboa Bill Boyle Teresa Carlin Joseph Harar Andy Hill Gabe Jaronson Michael Svec Alex TenHoeve Colleen Williams
House
Robert Dean, Chair Jeanne Cordisco, Family Activities Chair Jeanne Cordisco Dave Coriale Christopher Hughes Hayden Jewett Molly LeBlanc Michael Martinez Christine Reed Mary-Beth Taylor Gillian Ward Sunni Warren Betsy West Sam Whitehorn
Legal
Matthew Wolf, Chair Catherine Gallagher Patrick O’Neil Reggie Taylor
Long Range Planning
Michael Lentz, Chair Andrew Hill Vince Kiernan Patrick O’Neil Jonathan Penney Michael Ridgway Thomas Roginski Terri Smith Jennifer Spallone Carolyn West Bradley Wilner Matthew Wolf
Membership
Racquets
William LeBlanc, Chair Andrew Brancaccio, Paddle Chair Keelin Ghallagher Betsy Heidenberger Ian MacInnes Courtney Metz Monica Molloy Wade O’Brien Julia Power Marcus Witoski
Swim
Joshua Davis, Chair Sara Andrews Sarah Andrews Kevin Howard Meg Joseph Jonathan Solomon Erin Sowanick Kevin Weisser
Carlos Molina, Chair Meaghan Burke-Cross Jeffrey Cordisco Jeffrey Forbes Kimberly Gardiner Andrew Giordano Ryan Holley Jamie Houton Anne Patterson William F. Peel, III Michael Rowan 2026 Annual Report | 7
From the Membership Committee Carlos M. Molina Fiscal Year 2026 was a productive year for the Membership Committee, marked by continued interest in Columbia Country Club and several meaningful enhancements to our membership policies and admissions process. During the year, the Club welcomed 41 new members across various membership classifications. Interest in Columbia remains exceptionally strong, with more than 140 nominations currently on our waiting list. The anticipated wait for membership is an estimated 2.5 to 3 years, while Junior Membership carries an estimated wait of 4 to 4.5 years. Our Active Voting Membership, which includes Active Full and Active Non-Golf Members, currently stands at 884, compared to 939 at the close of the previous fiscal year. Over the past year, we sadly mourned the passing of 23 members across various membership classifications and received 24 resignations, the majority of which were from Non-Resident Members. One of our most significant accomplishments was the approval of a revised nomination process that provides the Membership Committee with earlier involvement in reviewing prospective members. Columbia’s admissions process remains a member-driven initiative, with Sponsors and Seconders playing an essential role in identifying, introducing, and guiding prospective members through the nomination process. The revised procedures reinforce these responsibilities. We also implemented a formal Golf/Racquets Nominee Interview and established a two-year membership tenure requirement for primary Sponsors, ensuring those introducing prospective members have a meaningful understanding of Columbia’s culture and traditions. Additional policy updates included revisions to the Junior Membership financing structure, a one-year limit on election deferrals, and the implementation of a biennial eligibility verification process for Non-Resident Members. The Committee also reviewed proposed changes to the Junior Membership Legacy definition. Collectively, these initiatives are intended to strengthen our membership procedures while preserving the traditions and standards of the Club. 8 | Columbia Country Club
I sincerely thank my fellow Membership Committee members for the considerable time, care, and judgement they devoted to this work throughout the year. I am equally grateful to the Board of Governors for its support of the admissions process, particularly its participation in Meet and Greets and Candidate Cocktail Receptions. While attending cocktail receptions may sound like the easier part of Board service, the thoughtful conversations at these events are an important part of getting to know prospective members. Special recognition goes to Emily Ince, Director of Membership & Communications, for her leadership and guidance throughout the year, and to Emily Anchecta, Membership Coordinator, for her continued dedication to the Club and her support of member accounts and relations.
As we look ahead, the Committee remains committed to welcoming individuals who embrace Columbia’s values, traditions, and sense of community, ensuring that the spirit of Columbia continues for generations to come.
Welcome New Members Member Name
Sponsor
James Attridge Timothy Barry Matthew Bart Nicholas Bath Eric Baumgardner Christopher Baylay Scott Becker Cornelis Bruggen, Jr. Louis Buell, Jr. Patrick Callahan Bryan Cecala Jonathan Cloar Guy Cook Charles Driesell Meghan Edwards George Ellis Peter Greenberger Andrew Greulich Kyle Hutzler Peter Kenny Dana Kilburn Joshua Lippard Howard Lutnick Sunil Madan Barron Martin Harrison Matthews Brendan May Brendan McCarthy Kimberly McKinley George Montgomery David Nicolardi Thomas O’Boyle Rebecca O’Bryon Christian Overton William Pappert Kyle Record William Rock Monica Schwartzbeck Minjae Song Jonathan Wakely Toby Williams
Anne Patterson William Peel, IV William Peel, IV Michael Smith John Williams Bob Reaves Richard Becker Cornelis Bruggen Jason Adams J. Paul McNamara Tom O’Donnell William Bateman Michael Malarkey William “Bill” Rowan Mark Matan AJ Pisano Jeff Forbes Robert Blair Tom Seidenstein Shane Moore Stephen Conley, Sr. David Simon Mark Ein Joseph Callahan Andrew Giordano Chris Smith John Williams Anne Patterson Taylor Llywellyn Julia Power Kevin Carlsen Patrick Williams David O’Bryon James Risoleo William T. Pappert Douglas Hurson John Gardiner Michael Crilley Mark Chicu Luis Torres Jennifer Cook
2026 Annual Report | 9
From the Budget & Finance Committee Thomas J. Roginski The Budget & Finance Committee is pleased to report Columbia Country Club remains in solid financial condition for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2026.
Financial Performance & Liquidity
Committee & Staff Appreciation A great deal of thanks is owed to our hard-working Committee members who met regularly throughout the year to prepare the FY27 operating and capital budgets.
Committee Members Ryan Angier, Terence Callahan, Michael Crilley, Paddy Cullen, Bob Dean, Patrick Judge, Brian Lemek, Mike Lentz, Andrew Marcou, Janene Mitchell, Al Serafino, and John Sturm.
Club Leadership We sincerely recognize Club General Manager Bill Jankowski, Director of Finance Steve O’Grady, and the entire staff. Their thorough evaluation of all expenses and capital requirements is critical to this successful budget process.
2026 Operating Results Operating Profit. Columbia operations resulted in a breakeven for FY26. Capital Expenditures. FY26 capital expenses totaled $1,265,000, compared to capital dues of $1,282,000. Total Net Income & Debt Service. Overall net income for FY26 totaled $3,387,000, which was fully utilized to service our existing debt and capital leases.
Balance Sheet & Liquidity Working Capital. As of September 30, 2026, Columbia has a cash balance of $5,055,000 and Current Assets exceed Current Liabilities by $730,000. Debt Reduction. The Club has successfully repaid $1,830,000 in principal on our bank loan during FY26, leaving a remaining balance of $11,842,000.
Upcoming Loan Refinancing The Club’s loans are scheduled to have a balloon maturity in July 2027. With the Club in strong financial condition, we are confident we will be able to negotiate competitive terms for renewal. The Board will continue to look for opportunities to accelerate debt reduction.
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FY2027 Operating Budget & Membership Dues Increase Proposal The Budget and Finance Committee recommended, and the Board has approved, a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year. This includes a proposed 5.8% dues increase, subject to a membership vote. As a result, monthly dues for an Active Full Member will increase from $1,065 to $1,127 with pro-rata increases applied to all other membership categories.
Key Drivers of the 2027 Dues Increase Capital Investment. 0.6% of the total 5.8% increase will be allocated directly to our capital dues portion. Labor & Payroll. Club Employee wages will increase by 3% next year to ensure competitive staff retention. (Note: The Club’s annual dues revenue roughly equals our total payroll costs). Insurance Costs. Health insurance premiums are rising by 7.5%, and general liability insurance is up by 10%. Inflationary Pressures. General inflation continues to impact everyday operating expenses, particularly facility maintenance and repair costs.
From the Treasurer Ryan B. Angier The fiscal year ending September 30, 2026, was another successful year for Columbia Country Club. Through strong operational performance, disciplined management of expenses, and continued investment in the Club’s future, we concluded the year with a balanced operating budget and a solid financial position.
FY27 Capital Budget The Board has approved a $1.7 million Capital Budget for FY27. This funding is distributed broadly across our operations to preserve and enhance the Club’s assets: » Continuous capital maintenance for our championship golf course. » Major required repairs to the Clubhouse and Family Activities Building. » Allocated funding to explore and plan long-term projects.
Our Financial Commitment The Budget & Finance Committee remains dedicated to a disciplined financial strategy: Funding capital projects entirely through cash flow generated from capital dues and initiation fees, while systematically reducing debt. This conservative, cash-flow-driven approach keeps Columbia in a solid financial position, allowing us to fund vital property improvements today and remain agile for future opportunities and challenges.
$28.3M Operating Income in FY26 Total operating income in FY2026 exceeded budget by approximately $1.5 million, and increasing more than $2.3 million over FY25. This strong performance was driven by results across several key areas of Club operations, most notably a la carte dining, banquets, and Club events, all of which surpassed budget expectations. Interest in the Club remains exceptionally strong, and we recorded more than $3.4 million in initiation fee income during the fiscal year. The Club’s success was further supported by effective expense management. Payroll and operating costs were carefully controlled throughout the year, allowing management to offset inflationary pressures while continuing to deliver an exceptional member experience. This achievement is a testament to the leadership of Bill Jankowski, Steve O’Grady, and the entire management team, whose dedication and financial stewardship continue to position the Club for long-term success. The Club also maintained its commitment to strengthening the balance sheet through continued debt reduction. During FY26, an additional $800,000 in principal payments were made on long-term debt above and beyond scheduled debt service. These additional payments reduce future interest expense and reinforce the Club’s longterm financial stability. As a result of favorable operating performance, the Club was also able to accelerate several capital and operational projects that had originally been planned for FY2027. By advancing these projects into FY2026, we were able to address important Club needs earlier than anticipated while remaining within our financial objectives.
Looking Ahead As we look ahead to FY2027, Columbia Country Club remains in a strong financial position. Healthy membership demand, consistent operating performance, continued debt reduction, and ongoing investment in Club facilities provide a solid foundation for the future. The Board of Governors, Budget and Finance Committee, and management team remain committed to responsible fiscal management while continuing to enhance the experience our members have come to expect.
2026 Annual Report | 11
Statement of Financial Position September 30, 2026 & 2025 Assets
2026 (unaudited)
2025 (audited)
Cash
$5,055,000
$3,424,000
Accounts Receivable
10,854,000
11,402,000
514,000
303,000
48,472,000
51,1 87,000
1,499,000
1,396,000
$66,394,000
$67,712,000
$3,000,000
$2,552,000
Long Term Debt
11,813,000
13,355,000
Deferred Revenue
1,912,000
1,778,000
$16,725,000
$17,685,000
Member’s Equity
$49,669,000
$50,027,000
Total Liabilities & Member’s Equity
$66,394,000
$67,712,000
Inventory Property & Equipment Prepaids & Other Total Assets
Liabilities Accounts Payable & Accrued Expenses
Total Liabilities
Equity
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Statement of Activities Year Ended September 30, 2026 & 2025 Revenue
2026 (unaudited)
2025 (audited)
Dues & Fees
$15,1 68,000
$13,959,000
Food & Beverage
10,303,000
9,324,000
Initiation Fees
3,482,000
4,562,000
Golf & Other
4,473,000
4,029,000
$33,426,000
$31,874,000
Payroll & Related
$17,202,000
$16,529,000
Cost of Good Sold
3,316,000
2,949,000
Golf & Activities
4,092,000
3,356,000
G & A & Other
9,1 74,000
8,662,000
$33,784,000
$31,496,000
Change in Net Assets
($358,000)
$378,000
Net Assets, Beginning of Year
$50,027,000
$49,649,000
Net Assets, End of Year
$49,669,000
$50,027,000
Total Revenue
Expenses
Total Expenses
2026 Annual Report | 13
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From the Long Range Planning Committee Michael E. Lentz I am pleased to provide an update on initiatives undertaken by the Long Range Planning Committee, in close collaboration with Club staff and external consultants, throughout FY26.
East-West Highway Residential Lots We have continued to pursue entitlements for the land adjacent to the Club along East-West Highway. As previously communicated, we experienced a setback when the Appellate Court of Maryland issued an opinion overturning the Board of Appeals’ approval to add the residential lots to the Club’s special exception. Consequently, our strategy has pivoted to pursuing a major amendment process. This phase requires detailed site plans and engineering studies to ensure that any future development aligns seamlessly with both the Club’s long-term strategic goals and the surrounding community’s interests. We recently completed site surveys of the lots to provide accurate base sheets necessary to move forward with plans and studies needed to accompany our zoning amendment.
Main Level Clubhouse Renovation A dedicated subcommittee was assembled to address several areas within the Clubhouse where a backlog of maintenance, general physical degradation, and functional obsolescence have created a clear imperative for modernization. Our primary goal is to create a more functional, inviting space that better serves our membership while honoring the Club’s classic design and historical prominence. Throughout this year, we’ve been working with an architect and interior design firm on the first phase of the project. Together, we are developing comprehensive plans and scopes of work to refresh the aesthetics and improve the operational flow between key areas, including the Lobby, Sitting Room, Dining Rooms and Living Room, and the Seasons Lounge. The output of this ongoing effort has yielded a strategic masterplan for Clubhouse reinvestment, providing the Board of Governors with the detailed information required to schedule and execute these vital improvements.
Long Range Projects Summary The committee assembled a list of major capital projects that have been raised and studied over the past several years. We put together rough order of magnitude costs to provide the Board of Governors with a comprehensive list of longterm capital needs for the club’s facilities.
We are incredibly excited about the potential these projects hold to elevate the member experience and secure the Club’s future for generations to come. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the members of the Long Range Planning Committee for their continued dedication and hard work this year.
2026 Annual Report | 15
From the Building & Grounds Committee Michelle M. Dombo This year was exceptionally active for the Club. High daily use, a full calendar of member activities, and the demands of aging building systems required careful coordination of maintenance and improvement work. One of the Committee’s most important accomplishments in the past year was the successful completion and implementation of the Club-wide Asset Management Document. This document provides a comprehensive framework for identifying, tracking, and planning for the Club’s major physical assets. It will serve as an important longterm planning tool, helping the Club anticipate capital needs, establish appropriate priorities, and make informed decisions regarding the future of its facilities. Recognizing the increasing importance of security, the Committee established Security as a dedicated subcommittee. This group will provide focused oversight of Club-wide security needs and work toward the evaluation and implementation of appropriate security improvements throughout the Club.
2026 Projects Completed Employee Offices Renovations. Refreshed and renovated several staff offices, including the Chef’s Office, Director of Racquets Office, Human Resources Office, Engineering Office, and Catering Office, creating more functional and updated workspaces. Women’s Swim Locker Room Refresh. Refreshed the Women’s Swim Locker Room with new paint throughout, providing a cleaner and more updated appearance. PoolPak Replacement. Replaced the indoor pool dehumidification system and completed related upgrades to gas piping, electrical systems, and drainage to improve the reliability and efficiency of the indoor pool environment. Main Level HVAC System Replacement. Upgraded the HVAC system serving several key event and member spaces, including the Seasons Lounge, Blue & Gold Room, Sitting Room, Living Room, and Foyer. These upgrades provide more consistent heating and cooling throughout the year.
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2027 Looking Ahead Main Clubhouse Hot Water Storage Tank Replacement. Replace and relocate three domestic hot water storage tanks that are currently corroded and failing. The project will also include rerouting associated piping to improve system reliability, efficiency, and long-term serviceability. Security & Surveillance Upgrades. Begin upgrading the Club’s current outdated surveillance system and install additional cameras to expand coverage, improve monitoring capabilities, and enhance security throughout the property. The main part of this project will allow our current camaras to be viewed remotely. 1st Tee Golf Pergola. Repair and repaint the pergola at the 1st Tee, addressing aging components while improving its condition and overall appearance. Back-of-House Service Areas. Repair and replace flooring in key back-of-house service areas to address worn surfaces, improve safety, and create a cleaner and more consistent appearance. Grounds Storage Relocation. Relocate Grounds storage to the parking area beneath the tennis courts, providing a more functional and organized storage solution. Caddie Shack Refurbishment. Refreshed and upgraded the Caddie Shack with new paint, windows, a fully renovated bathroom and shower area, and new amenities including a stand-up arcade game and vending machine with subsidized snacks. These improvements create a more comfortable and welcoming space while continuing the Club’s beloved tradition of the caddie program. Paddle Court Sidewalk & Decking Replacement. Replaced the decking leading to the paddle courts and completed concrete and sidewalk repairs prior to last paddle season. The improvements eliminated potential hazards while creating a cleaner, safer, and more cohesive appearance. Caddie Shack Roof Replacement. Replaced the Caddie Shack roof and upgraded the associated drainage system to address aging infrastructure, improve water management, and protect the building for years to come.
The Building and Grounds Committee will continue to prioritize preventive maintenance and completion of projects in 2027. Ongoing planning will focus on reliability, energy efficiency, safety, and thoughtful scheduling around the club’s increasingly active calendar.
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From the House Committee Robert G. Dean, III The past year marked the first full year of uninterrupted Club operations following completion of the Lower Level Project. With all areas of the Club fully available to members and guests, activity remained strong throughout the year, with robust participation in dining, special events, and private functions. Our signature Club events continued to bring the membership together. The annual Fireworks Celebration welcomed 2,381 members and guests, while more than 600 attended our St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. The Yellowstone Music Fest was also a tremendous success and will return on October 30, 2026. In total, Columbia hosted more than 120 Club events on the Main Level between October 2025 and September 2026, not including private events. Food and Beverage experienced several important transitions during the year. We welcomed Executive Chef Mario Oliverio and Executive Sous Chef Qumique “Q” Townsend to the Columbia team. Our à la carte dining program continued to offer members new and creative experiences, including National Food Day celebrations, Lobster Nights, Breakfast for Dinner, and the annual Cinco de Mayo menu. Banquet operations also had an exceptional year, with revenue exceeding budgeted targets. The Club hosted 20 weddings and more than 30 celebrations of life and memorial gatherings during the year. Special recognition goes to Laura Gaige and the Catering Team for their outstanding efforts and for continuing to make Columbia a special place for members and their guests to celebrate life’s important occasions.
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We are also pleased to recognize several welldeserved promotions within the Food and Beverage department: Edward Dennis to Banquet Manager, Ryan Kennedy to Beverage Director, Miguel Borja to Food & Beverage Manager, Kevin Hernandez to Food & Beverage Manager, and Yolanda Flores to Food & Beverage Supervisor. Nevin Xavier also earned a welldeserved promotion to Assistant General Manager. Their advancement reflects the Club’s continued commitment to developing and recognizing our talented staff. During the year, the House Committee worked with the Board and management to update both the Club’s Dress Policy and Electronic Device Policy. These efforts were undertaken with the goal of providing greater clarity for members while preserving the traditions, character, and welcoming atmosphere that make Columbia special. We also extend our sincere appreciation to Grace Weisser for her dedicated service as Family Activities Chair, and a welcome to Jeanne Cordisco as our new subCommittee Chair.
On behalf of the House Committee, thank you to our members for their participation, engagement, and feedback throughout the year. We are especially grateful to our management team and dedicated staff for the tremendous work they do each day to provide an exceptional experience for our members and guests. We look forward to another vibrant year ahead at Columbia Country Club.
The 27th David S. Scrivener Distinguished Service Award Established in 1998, The David S. Scrivener Distinguished Service Award is presented annually in recognition of a member who has distinguished themselves by providing longtime service to Columbia Country Club. It is named for a person who has served the Club in so many ways over a long number of years and did so with passion, class, grace and humility.
2026 Recipient John “Jack” Barse For more than 30 years, Jack Barse has exemplified the spirit of service, leadership, and volunteerism that makes Columbia Country Club so special. From his invaluable contributions to our USGA Championships and more than 25 years of service as a Rules Official and Club Championship official, to his leadership with the Maryland State Golf Association as President and Secretary, Jack’s commitment to the game of golf and to Columbia has been extraordinary. His dedication continues through his efforts to preserve the Club’s rich history for future generations. Above all, Jack embodies the true spirit of Columbia—quietly and generously giving his time and expertise, always placing service above recognition. With sincere gratitude for his exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication to Columbia Country Club, we are honored to present the 27th David S. Scrivener Distinguished Service Award to Mr. Jack Barse.
2026 Annual Report | 19
From the Bowling Committee Michael D’Achille Bowling at Columbia continues to be popular with members and their families. The 2025 season was very successful, with very few lanes out of service. This reflects the excellent work of the staff in maintaining the equipment and the Club’s continued focus on improving the member experience.
Highlights & Facility Improvements
Open Bowling & Lane Reservations
Approach refinishing. The approach refinishing project will provide bowlers with a more consistent experience.
The reservation system for open bowling has successfully reduced wait times and helped staff prepare the Bowling Center for weekend play. The Club plans to continue the system for the 2026 season.
Scoring pedestal repair. The middle scoring pedestal has been out of service for several years, affecting league play on two lanes. The Club has engaged the pedestal distributor, which will visit the Club to evaluate and hopefully esolve the issue. Pinsetter parts and equipment. Because the pinsetters are aging and replacement parts are increasingly difficult to source, the Club has acquired equipment and spare parts from local duckpin centers that have closed. These purchases help staff keep the equipment operating throughout the season. Experienced mechanic. The Club hired an experienced mechanic to work on the bowling equipment. He was instrumental in the smooth operation of the lanes last year, and 2026 will be his first full season.
Open bowling is available to all members on Friday nights and weekends. Lanes can be reserved through the Club website or Columbia mobile app.
Private Events The Bowling Center can host private events, except during scheduled league play. Members interested in reserving the Bowling Center for a private event should contact the Columbia Catering team.
2026 League Play We anticipate continued enthusiasm for both open bowling and league play in 2026. The Women’s League continues to grow, complementing strong participation across the Club’s league schedule.
2026 League Schedule Mixed League | Tuesday & Wednesday Nights Men’s League | Thursday Nights Women’s League | Wednesday Mornings
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The Bowling Committee looks forward to another successful bowling season and appreciates the continued work of the staff to provide members and their families with a reliable and enjoyable bowling experience.
From the Fitness Committee
From the Swim Committee
Terri G. Smith
Joshua M. Davis
It has been an exceptional year for Columbia Country Club Fitness. The fitness community within the club is stronger than ever, driven by the dedication of our members who make our services a regular part of their weekly routine.
2026 was another successful and spirited year at Columbia’s pools. Much of that is thanks to Ian McNeal, our Pool Manager and to his Assistant Pool Mangers, Simon Pompey and Aryan Suri. Their hard work and dedication kept the pools open, operational, and most importantly safe all year.
Usage across our amenities reached recordhigh participation in all categories:
631 Fitness Memberships 2,300 Increase in Fitness Center Visits 3,660 Personal Training Sessions 850 Hours of Massage Services 358 Pilates Sessions Completed Events like our annual Turkey Trot highlight the spirit of our community, bringing together multigenerational families and friends to create lasting memories and celebrate health. This ongoing success is a direct result of the hard work and commitment of Fitness Director Dana Shorb and his entire Fitness staff—from our front desk attendants to our instructors—who consistently create a welcoming, safe, and premium environment for every member.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Dana, his team, the Fitness Committee, and all Columbia members for their unwavering support and enthusiasm. We look forward to offering new classes and refined wellness experiences in the coming year.
The highlight of the year, as it is most years, was the summer Sharks swim team season. This season saw over 180 of our children enthusiastically developing their strokes and competing all summer. Led by Kevin Mackenzie, our long-time and muchbeloved Head Coach, and dedicated Assistant Coaches Cece, Niko, Liam, and Lindsay, the swim team solidified its spot in the B Division for the 2027 season. Additionally, this season, we were able to provide a warm Columbia welcome while hosting both the B Division Championship swim meet and the 3 Cs swim meet with our friends from Chevy and Congressional. Huge thanks are owed to the club’s Operations team for putting on a race-themed 3 Cs party replete with exotic cars, race simulators, and plenty of merriment. The meet and party were praised within and without the club as the best 3 Cs event in memory. Operationally, there were a number of enhancements around the pools, including adding seating and umbrella coverage around the pool deck. This year, we look forward to enhancing the swim experience with additional capital improvements. Finally, there are thanks to be given: first to the membership for their helpful and much-appreciated feedback; second to the swim committee for their guidance and assistance this year; and third to Meg Joseph and Kevin Weisser who took on the massive task of co-chairing the swim team. 2026 Annual Report | 21
From the Green Committee Nicholas S. Grubb The 2026 golf season was highlighted by a number of significant events and golf course improvement projects. After last season’s unpredictable spring weather and winter damage to our Tahoma 31 fairways, this spring was a welcome return to a sense of normalcy. The Grounds team’s seasonlong efforts, careful agronomic planning, and a little help from Mother Nature positioned the fairways well heading into winter dormancy. The result was an excellent spring transition, with the fairways greening up uniformly and showing virtually no winter damage. Early summer brought the excitement of hosting the Maryland Amateur in June, followed by our Men’s Member-Guest. The Grounds team took great pride in presenting the course at a high level for both events and providing excellent playing conditions for our members and guests. The summer also presented some of the most challenging weather conditions we have experienced in recent years, with a record number of days above 90 degrees and nearly a full week of temperatures reaching 100 degrees. Despite these extreme conditions, the golf course performed exceptionally well throughout the summer. The team’s preparation, attention to detail, and ability to adjust maintenance practices throughout the season played an important role in maintaining consistent conditions. This season, the team continued our ongoing effort to convert tees to Tahoma 31 bermudagrass. Work was completed on holes 2, 3, 4, 5, 12, and 14, continuing the progress made in previous years. This work will continue into 2027 as we work toward completing additional tee conversions and further improving the consistency and playing quality of our tees. We also completed the driving range tee leveling and sodding project, providing a more consistent and functional practice surface for our members. In addition, the landscape restoration work around the Shack has transformed the area and added year-round interest and seasonal color. Building on the success of that project, we look forward to continuing this effort throughout the Clubhouse grounds. 22 | Columbia Country Club
As we look ahead to the winter months we will continue to focus on meaningful improvements throughout the golf course. Planned work will include continued bunker improvements, pond and stream bank restoration, selective rough grass replacement, drainage and irrigation improvements, and forward tee improvements on holes 1, 11, and 18. We will also begin implementation of select projects identified in the Club’s Master Plan starting with the bunker project on Red’s Roost. This project is slated to begin early spring. The Grounds team remains dedicated to enhancing and maintaining Columbia Country Club’s golf course, even under the most challenging conditions. Their attention to detail, commitment to agronomic excellence, and willingness to continually adapt have helped provide our members with consistent, high quality playing conditions throughout the season. We look forward to building on this progress and continuing to improve the course in the years ahead. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Andrew Crawford, his assistants Carter Goodrich, Alexis Nunez, and James Fitzella, Clubhouse Grounds Manager Huy Nguyen, and the entire Grounds staff for their hard work, dedication, and commitment throughout the past season. Their efforts, often behind the scenes, are essential to the daily success of the Club and the quality of our golf course. Thank you also to the Green Committee for their time, effort, and continued support. Their involvement and dedication play an important role in helping us thoughtfully plan for the future while continuing to improve the golf course.
We look forward to another productive year ahead and to continuing the momentum we have built over the past several seasons.
From the Golf Committee Michael S. Mitchell The Golf Committee is pleased to report that the golf program had another strong and very busy year. We ended the fiscal year with just under 30,000 rounds, slightly fewer rounds than last year due primarily to winter weather early in the year.
October 1, 2025 - September 30, 2026
28,541 Total Rounds Last Year - 32,039
10,031 Caddie Rounds (35%) Last Year - 11,236 (35%)
10,038 Cart Rounds (35%) Last Year - 10,529 (33%)
8,572 Walking Rounds (30%) Last Year - 10,274 (32%)
3,925 Guest Rounds
Caddie usage this year was similar to last year while cart usage was slightly higher. We will look to reverse this trend in the coming year given our Club’s tradition and history as a place that emphasizes walking. Even so, the Golf Committee thanks the membership for its support of our caddie program. Tournament participation remains very strong, with over 80% of events currently reaching a waitlist. Our waitlist data shows that members who register within the first 24 hours almost always secure a spot in the field. The Golf Staff continues to work hard to ensure that if a member gets stuck on the waitlist for an event, they receive priority entry the following year. Our junior programming continues to thrive, with all of our junior camps reaching waitlists and strong participation in our Junior Clinics. We strive to provide juniors with meaningful access to the golf course, with Mondays dedicated for junior play exclusively. This year, junior golf accounted for roughly 13% of all rounds played.
Last Year - 3,103
As you may recall, in 2025 we experimented with “no guests on Friday” to try to alleviate long first tee wait times, which were common in late Spring and early Fall. We implemented this policy for 2026. With a full-year of data, it appears the rule has had the intended effect: Friday first tee wait times were down significantly, and we were better able to manage the busiest days. The rule seems to have been well-received by the membership, who appear to enjoy having the course reserved for members on Fridays. Interestingly, despite the rule, overall guest play was up in 2026—we hosted approximately 800 more guests this year than last—and especially on Tuesdays, when members can bring more than one guest. This indicates that members who used to bring guests on Fridays have shifted to other days of the week, when there is less demand by members to play. We intend to maintain the “no guests on Friday” rule next year. 2026 Annual Report | 23
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We continue to see very high demand for the Club’s practice facilities. A few key points: The driving range remains a huge part of the golf operation and one of the most heavily used facilities at the Club. In July 2026, we re-sodded the top hitting area with Tahoma-31 turf, which should improve the driving range experience. The turf now matches our fairway grass, and the Tahoma-31 should recover more quickly from high-usage during warm weather months. This was the first full year using the yellow limited-flight balls, which can be hit only in the designated hitting stations. The limited-flight balls have largely eliminated balls being hit over the net. The Golf Committee recognizes some users are unable to hit any ball over the nets, so we are assessing ways to make the policy more equitable. We now have almost two full years with the simulator room. We saw a slight drop in demand over the last year, but it remains very popular. This year we adjusted the reservation rules to improve access, which appears to have been wellreceived. We also now have a better sense of the maintenance required, and will look to replace the mats and screens more frequently to keep the room fresh. Finally, long term planning for improving the Club’s practice facilities continues. Notably, the approved Golf Course Master Plan includes significant planned improvements to the shortgame areas, which will be a major focus for the future.
In keeping with Columbia’s storied history of hosting important championships, we thank the membership for your willingness to host and support the 2026 Maryland Amateur. The event was a great success, with 11 members participating. Our golf course once again stood up to the best players in the state: not a single player broke par in qualifying, leading the MSGA to dub the day, “the carnage at Columbia.” While we did not crown a Columbia member as the winner that week, our own Billy Peel did win the 2026 Maryland Open, and we congratulate him on that significant achievement. In the same vein, Columbia will host the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur in September 2027. The event co-chairs are Billy and Corey Peel. The planning process, including fundraising, is well underway. We encourage the membership to look for opportunities to contribute to the success of this national championship. Communication about the championship will ramp up soon; please stay tuned.
I wish to thank the members of the Golf Committee, Head Golf Professional Steve Delmar and the entire Golf Staff for their hard work over this last year.
2026 Annual Report | 25
From the Racquets Committee William B. LeBlanc, III The Racquets Department enjoyed an exceptional year in 2026, continuing a period of remarkable growth and engagement at Columbia Country Club. Across Tennis, Platform Tennis, and Pickleball, participation reached record levels for the fifth consecutive year, reflecting the strength of our programming, the dedication of our staff, and the enthusiasm of the Columbia membership. This year also marked an important transition in the history of Columbia Racquets, as Joe Mesmer concluded an extraordinary 34-year tenure and Jeff Wiedemann assumed the role of Director of Racquets. Joe’s impact on Columbia Racquets is difficult to overstate. Over more than three decades, he helped shape the culture, traditions, programming, and sense of community that define the department today. Under his leadership, Columbia Racquets grew in both scope and stature while preserving the personal connections that have long distinguished the program. As Joe transitions into retirement, he leaves behind a thriving department and a lasting legacy of excellence. We are fortunate that he will remain an important part of the Columbia Racquets community as Professional Emeritus. Jeff Wiedemann joined Columbia in 2026, bringing extensive experience as both a racquets professional and player across Tennis, Platform Tennis, and Pickleball. His previous leadership roles include positions at Aronimink Golf Club and DuPont Country Club. Since arriving at Columbia, Jeff has embraced the Club’s traditions while bringing a fresh perspective to programming and department operations. He and his family are delighted to make Montgomery County and Columbia Country Club their new home. Jeff joins an experienced professional team that includes Sean O’Neil, Lesia Schinnerer, Eleni Fotaki, John Dillon, and Nick Borak. The department also welcomed Karl Hoegstedt as Head Platform Tennis Professional, adding considerable playing and coaching experience ahead of another highly anticipated paddle season.
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The year began with a record-setting winter in Columbia’s tennis bubble. Indoor court utilization reached an all-time high, while lessons, clinics, contracts, private events, and social programming remained exceptionally strong. Thoughtful scheduling and creative use of limited court inventory allowed the Professional Staff to serve a broad cross-section of the membership throughout the indoor season. That momentum carried into the spring, highlighted by continued growth in Ladies Tennis. Columbia fielded eleven Ladies Interclub teams, while two new Evening Social League teams created an additional opportunity for members unable to participate during the day. Men’s Tennis also enjoyed a strong season with the launch of an 80-player Wednesday Evening Intra-Club League, continued participation in the Burgundy and Gold Leagues, and several dual matches against area clubs. John Dillon’s Morning Men’s Social welcomed more than 150 participants through the spring and early summer. As summer arrived, Columbia’s junior players took center stage. The courts were filled with practices, matches, camps, and competition, and the 2026 BCCJTA season produced firstor second-place Columbia finishes in nearly every junior age division. The season concluded with a Junior Awards Banquet celebrating the accomplishments, improvement, and sportsmanship of our young players. Fall participation has remained equally strong. Five Ladies teams opened the season undefeated, league play continues across the full ability spectrum, and major men’s and women’s events have been fully subscribed. New clinics, leagues, socials, and competitive opportunities continue to be introduced, while Platform Tennis and Pickleball add further energy to an already active calendar.
The success of the Racquets Department extends well beyond instruction and competition. Our front desk team of Valentina Nava, Francis Gist, and Seamus O’Neil plays an essential role in delivering the level of service our members expect each day. The Columbia Racquet Shop has also continued to evolve under Seamus’ leadership, expanding its assortment with new vendors and finding considerable success in offering apparel, equipment, and products that resonate with the membership. Sales have surpassed $175,000 this year, putting the shop on pace for its most successful year on record. Equally important is the work that takes place on the courts themselves. The Club’s tennis maintenance team have worked tirelessly throughout the year to keep Columbia’s courts in exceptional condition. Their attention to detail and commitment behind the scenes have allowed our members to enjoy outstanding playing conditions throughout a remarkably busy season.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Joe Mesmer, Jeff Wiedemann, and the entire Racquets Team for their contributions to an outstanding year. As one important chapter in Columbia Racquets history closes and another begins, the department does so from a position of tremendous strength. 2026 Annual Report | 27
From the Paddle Committee Andrew M. Brancaccio Platform Tennis continued to thrive at Columbia in 2026, with over 400 members competing across our four in-house leagues, making our Club the home of the largest intraclub paddle league in the country. League play remained at the heart of the season, complemented by a full slate of Member-Member and MemberGuest competition. On the women’s side, Red-y For It, led by Lindzy Davis and Sophie Jung, captured the Monday League title, while Vivian Birney’s Pink Pony Club won the Tuesday League championship. The Men’s Wednesday League title went to Cerv-Aces, captained by Ignacio Aicardi. On Thursdays, Kristian Minglers, led by first-year captain Kevin Cullen, claimed the championship. Cullen was later overheard saying, “I’m moving to Wednesday,” a robber baron if there ever was one. The year also featured the debut of the Men’s March Madness Paddle Tournament, a new event that quickly became a welcome addition to the calendar. Mike Morris and David Yarkin claimed the title, while Blake Bath won the bracket challenge by correctly predicting the most matches.
One of the highlights of the year came in the Men’s Connecticut Avenue Cup, where Columbia defeated Chevy Chase Club to reclaim local bragging rights in one of the season’s most anticipated matches. As we look ahead, there is tremendous excitement surrounding the next chapter of Columbia Platform Tennis. The recent additions of Karl Hoegstedt as Head Platform Tennis Professional and Francisco Dias as a Racquets Professional, working alongside Director of Racquets Jeff Wiedemann, have brought new energy and anticipation to the program. With strong participation, a passionate membership, and fresh ideas ahead, the Columbia paddle community is eager to see what the upcoming season will bring.
The Men’s Wednesday League Member-Guest produced flight victories for Greg Flynn & Todd Colonna, repeat champions who may have earned themselves a move up next year, along with Todd Fulmer & Will Railey and Charlie Gorman & Pat Coan. In the Men’s Thursday League Member-Guest, Marc Salotti & Kevin Loden and John Gaine & Rich Morascak claimed flight titles. Women’s events were equally active. Kaitlin Brancaccio & Kelsey Glading won the Gold Flight and Sarah Cormier & Samantha Cronic captured the White Flight in the Tuesday League Member-Guest. Meg Horning & Caroline Atkinson won the Championship Flight in the Monday League Member-Guest and Member-Member event, while Bailey Foncannon & Kayla Richey took top honors in the Lucky Leprechauns Member-Member.
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Thank you to our players, captains, professionals, and staff for another outstanding year.
From the Community Relations Committee Matthew R. Stanton This past year the Columbia Board and the Columbia Foundation worked together to promote and advance our message as the “Club that gives back.” Through the combined efforts of Club President Carolyn West and Foundation President Mark Belles we have been successful in focusing efforts around supporting Columbia’s staff and their families. Whether through direct financial assistance when they are in need or through educational grants and other activities, the Columbia Foundation continues to prioritize our Columbia family first.
I want to thank the leadership of Club President Carolyn West, Tom Roginski, Columbia Foundation President Mark Belles and Catherine Gallagher for their continued efforts to work together in promoting and protecting our Club and the great work we do inside and outside of Columbia. I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to our General Manager Bill Jankowski and his team for their support. Most importantly, I want to thank all of you.
I am also pleased to share the Columbia Foundation’s focused efforts to support organizations in Montgomery County (and beyond) which are having a meaningful and measurable impact on our community are driving awareness outside of Columbia and into our communities. The Foundation continues to build its reputation with non-profits and elected officials and are being recognized for the organizations the Foundation supports. Columbia’s unique First Tee Honorary Guest Program continues to be a major success for children in our area and their families as we welcome these deserving individuals to be part of our club. The teaching, mentorship and lasting friendships which have been created through providing over 27 families with access to Columbia and our membership over the years is paying dividends inside and outside of Columbia. As we look to 2027 our Community Relations team and I will continue to work with the Foundation to communicate and amplify the innovative and impactful work they are doing with the Columbia family and in our community. While the Foundation has implemented the aforementioned programs, it is critical our membership stays engaged and has an indepth understanding of what we are trying to accomplish. We continue to be known as the Club that gives back but are also known as the Club that begins with our Columbia family while also supporting the most meaningful and innovative programs in our community.
The Columbia Foundation and the Columbia Board are doing amazing things to support our team and our community but we could not do without all of you. Thank you so much for all you do to support our Club. 2026 Annual Report | 29
From the Columbia Foundation Mark Belles, President The past year brought significant momentum to the Columbia Foundation, thanks to the impactful giving of Columbia’s members. At the same time, the Foundation refined its mission to include working with Club employees, community non-profits and Columbia’s First Tee Honorary Guest Program. We strengthened critical ties both inside the Club and across the surrounding community during Fiscal Year 2026 to ensure our focus is steady. From educational aid to targeted relief for employees, to grant work and community-building and mentorship through access to our golf facilities, our work continues to create opportunities for local families and deserving causes. We are carrying that energy directly into our newly launched capital fundraising campaign, which I am pleased to share is already gaining traction thanks to our generous membership.
Our Mission Commitment to Club Employees We remain dedicated to investing in initiatives that champion, empower, and celebrate the extraordinary staff who bring Columbia to life every day. In Fiscal Year 2026, we were able to provide: Nearly $25,000 in direct financial support to employees facing unexpected hardship, offering timely assistance and peace of mind in moments of need. Nearly $80,000 in educational grants to employees and their dependents for professional development and primary, secondary and higher education. Nearly 300 Thanksgiving turkeys distributed in November 2025, bringing holiday cheer and gratitude to employees and their families during our 2nd annual turkey giveaway.
“My wife Ana Maria and I want to thank the Columbia Foundation for the help that we had last year. Our house was broken into last year, and thanks to the Foundation’s Employee Assistance Program, my family got help when we most needed it.” - Jorge Zuniga, Columbia Country Club Snack Bar Manager “Because of the Employee Family Scholarship Fund, my son was able to attend Mother of God and proudly graduate from kindergarten this year. This scholarship has also allowed our family to invest in opportunities beyond the classroom, including Little League baseball and art summer camp.” - Miguel Borga, Columbia Country Club Food & Beverage Manager “I would like to thank the Columbia Foundation for investing in me through the Employee Education Assistance Initiative. Since I started college at the Catholic University and began pursuing a degree in Business Administration, the Foundation’s support has helped reduce the financial burden on both my family and me.” -Katherine Montoya, Columbia Country Club HR Intern
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Columbia Country Club First Tee Honorary Guest Program The Columbia First Tee Honorary Guest Program is the first of its kind in the United States. Now in its sixth year, the program has provided 27 deserving First Tee Greater Washington, D.C. participants with access to Columbia’s facilities, and mentorship opportunities with Club members. The Foundation remains proud to partner with the Club and First Tee of Greater Washington on this initiative.
Celebrating Our Community Through the Foundation’s Community Impact Fund, we continue to support local nonprofits doing vital work—focusing on organizations in Montgomery County, MD and those with meaningful ties to our membership. In Fiscal Year 2026, we were proud to support these organizations, each with $15,000 grants to advance their missions and impact.
This August, the First Tee Honorary Guest Program held a reception welcoming three new Honorary Guests and congratulating three graduating Honorary Guests from the 2025–2026 season. Two current Honorary Guests will continue in the program through next year, while three graduating Honorary Guests are headed off to college this fall.
Hope and a Home. Their mission is to break the cycle of poverty for qualified families in DC. They received a grant that will support the organization’s housing program as well as wraparound services to ensure children grow up in safe and stable homes with the resources they need to learn and thrive.
KEEN. An organization that empowers youth with disabilities throughout the DMV area through participation in free, noncompetitive, one-on-one programs of physical activity and fun. They received a grant that will allow the nonprofit to continue to grow and reach more families in Montgomery County.
The Christ Child Society of Washington DC. A 135-yearold organization much beloved by many Columbia members, they received a grant to support its work with CentroNia at the Martha Gudelsky Child Development Center in Silver Spring. The grant will expand an early literacy program called “Read to Me” and provide books, layettes and toddler sacks to families, the majority of whom live at or below the federal poverty level.
Looking Ahead As we look to 2027, the Foundation remains dedicated to promoting Columbia’s reputation as the “Club that gives back,” and we invite our entire membership to join us in this mission. In May of this year, we kicked off an ambitious six-month fundraising campaign, focused on expanding our reach with Club employees, which we continue to drive forward. Thanks to more than 60 generous donations, we have raised nearly $60,000 to date.
There is still opportunity to make a difference. If you’d like to donate or get more involved with the Foundation and our work, please reach out to Foundation President Mark Belles. 2026 Annual Report | 31
Senior Management Bill Jankowski, General Manager Nevin Xavier, Assistant General Manager Elizabeth Blanco, Director of House Services Andrew Crawford, Golf Course Superintendent Steve Delmar, Head Golf Professional Laura Gaige, Director of Catering Mario Oliverio, Executive Chef Emily Ince, Director of Membership & Communications Stephen Enright, Chief Engineer Jeff Wiedemann, Director of Racquets Steve O’Grady, Director of Finance Dana Shorb, Director of Fitness
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Columbia Employee Spotlight Team Member Promotions Eddie Dennis was promoted to Banquet Manager from Assistant Banquet Manager in January 2026. Timothy Roche was promoted to Assistant Golf Professional from Outside Operations in February 2026. Michael Odia was promoted to Assistant Banquet Manager from Banquet Captain in March 2026. Ryan Kennedy was promoted to Beverage Director from Food & Beverage Manager in March 2026. Miguel Borja was promoted to Food & Beverage Manager from Food & Beverage Supervisor in March 2026. Seamus O’Neil was promoted to Tennis Shop Merchandiser & Assistant Racquets Professional from Assistant Pickleball Professional in April 2026. Yolanda Flores was promoted to Food & Beverage Supervisor from Bartender in May 2026. Jeckson Serrano was promoted to Lead Houseman from Houseman in August 2026.
Congratulations! Alex Hoffman was named the 2026 Central Chapter Assistant Professional of the Year. Carter Goodright was champion of the 2026 Chili Cookoff. Nevin Xavier became a Board Member of the Mid-Atlantic Club Managers Association & Promoted to AGM in April 2026. Kwame Firmpong graduated with his Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering from North Carolina University in May 2026. Nona Nielson Parket went to the see the full solar eclipse in Santander, Spain on August 12, 2026. This happened after walking 75 miles on the northern route of the camino de Santiago. Susan Pondi graduated from Walden University with her Master’s Degree in Social Work on August 21, 2026. Heather Watson married Tony Masiello on September 6, 2026. Racquets Director Joe Mesmer retired after 34 years of service.
Birth Announcements Alex Nguyen and his wife Camilla welcomed their daughter Arliss on April 25, 2026. Emily Gravell-Madden and her husband Henry welcomed their son Luke on May 30, 2026. Owen Martinez Guifarro welcomed a baby girl, Eyli, July 19, 2026.
Kevin Hernandez was promoted to Food & Beverage Manager from Market Manager in September 2026.
Alexis Nunez and his wife Linsy, welcomed baby #4 Ashlyn Marie Nunez, on August 10, 2026.
Emily Anchecta was promoted to Membership Coordinator from Front Desk Receptionist in October 2026
Andrew Crawford and his wife Sara, and their first born Henry welcomed baby # 2: Charlotte Sara Crawford on September 18.
Jhoana Mejia was promoted to Banquet Captain from Banquet Server in November 2026.
The Foundation Gives Back
Welcome to the Team
Stephen Enright’s daughter Viera Enright got accepted and began her first year at St. John’s College High School, partly supported by the Columbia Foundation.
Qumique Townsend was welcomed as the Executive Sous Chef in December 2025.
Katherine Montoya studied Abroad in Rome, Italy and other European countries, partly supported by the Columbia Foundation.
Mario Oliverio was welcomed as the Executive Chef in August 2026.
Emily Ince’s daughter Lillian Ince got accepted and began her first year at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic High School partly supported by the Columbia Foundation. 2026 Annual Report | 33
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In Memoriam
Jo Ann Devaney
H. Vincent Kelly
Christopher J. Donatelli
Therese J. Matan
John P. Arness
Joseph L. Donnelly, Jr.
Edgar K. Merkle
Nicholas L. Christopher
G. Maurice DuFour
Robert L. Pillote
Patricia C. Christopher
Yvette H. Escudero
Stuart L. Sessions
Daniel F. Collins
Jane L. Flood
Glenn E. Thompson
Anthony J. “Perky” Cullinane
Sylvester G. “Fred” Frederick
William E. Timmons
Michael G. “Chip” Davis
Edward J. Joyeusaz
Eugene J. Wingerter
2026 Annual Report | 35
Columbia Country Club 7900 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815 (301)951-5000 | www.columbiacc.org 36 | Columbia Country Club