CIU Grounds Superintendent Awarded Elite Status

CIU Grounds Superintendent Awarded Elite Status

Norm Stewart (right) discusses a beautification project with crew member Mike Rypkema. “I have an awesome group of guys who are very professional and engaged in what they do,” Stewart said.

Columbia International University Grounds Superintendent Norm Stewart has been named a Certified Grounds Manager. At first, that may not sound like a big deal – until you consider that  Stewart is one of only 143 people to achieve the status from the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS) headquartered in Baltimore. PMGS unites professional grounds managers, promotes educational information regarding grounds management, and assists grounds managers in maintaining a high standard of business ethics. 

To achieve the award Stewart had to pass tests, have his work site reviewed by certified grounds managers and submit a PowerPoint presentation covering nine areas including turf management, irrigation, budgets and finances, and safety. He will receive a plaque and will be acknowledged at the annual PGMS awards banquet in Louisville, Ky. in October.

Stewart says becoming a Certified Grounds Manager encourages him to maintain a high level of professionalism.

“I believe the Certified Grounds Management Program sets individuals apart due to their passion for excellence and their love for learning, both of which I hope to continue to pursue,” Stewart said. “I also believe that being designated a certified grounds manager carries with it the confidence that is often needed when communicating with those we work for and with.”

Stewart says the best part of his job is his co-workers.

“I have an awesome group of guys who are very professional and engaged in what they do,” Stewart said. “They work hard and they work to please God.  Without a doubt each person on the Grounds Crew plays a vital role in the ministry of CIU.  I work with guys that pray with each other, encourage one another and sharpen one another.” 

Stewart says he also enjoys cutting turf areas with a walk-behind mower and working with irrigation.

Perhaps Stewart’s professionalism in grounds management is best exemplified in his efficiency. He holds the record for fastest time of stick edging the length of International Boulevard, the nearly half-mile long entrance to the CIU campus.

Last year, CIU was a winner in the Columbia Choice Awards recognizing landscaping and beautification.