Reynolds Lake Oconee is proud to announce the recipients of its First Quarter Employee Awards for 2016. Tad Hopkins, Golf Course Superintendent at The Plantation Course has been named Leader of the Quarter while both Kevin Davidson, Spray Tech at The Creek Club, and Joel Kenimer, Cart Attendant at The National, have been names Employees of the Quarter.
Prior to joining Reynolds five years ago, Tad Hopkins earned his BSA in Turfgrass Management from UGA and worked as the Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at The Georgia Club in Statham, GA. He joined Reynolds as the Assistant Golf Course Superintendent at The Oconee Course before moving into his current role.
“I love the overall commitment to excellence throughout this organization,” says Hopkins. “Reynolds has allowed me an opportunity to grow within the company and realize my career goal of becoming a Golf Course Superintendent.” Hopkins enjoys the everyday challenges that turf management provides and is excited to see the course continue to improve on a daily basis after coming off a 10-month renovation.
Hopkins is a member of the Georgia Golf Course Superintendents Association and Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. In his spare time he enjoys golfing, working on his house, and spending time with his wife Kris, and daughters Libby and Mary-Wilkes.
Kevin Davidson started at Reynolds three years ago, right out of high school. He recently received his Certificate in Turfgrass Management and is currently working on more studies in the field. While completing his studies, Davidson says he likes working for a company that has high standards and provides many opportunities.
“I love all the challenges that come with my job, always having goals to meet and the feeling of accomplishment when the task is completed,” says Davidson. “I also love seeing all the beautiful views of the golf courses and knowing that I had a part in it.”
When he is not working, Davidson likes being outdoors, enjoying Lake Sinclair with his dog Jackson, and going to Atlanta Brave games.
Before joining Reynolds three years ago, Joel Kenimer was in the recycling and waste disposal business. He says that he likes working at Reynolds because it was initially just a place to work, but now it is home.
“I am fortunate to come in contact with, and serve a diverse clientele form all over the globe,” says Kenimer. “And with co-workers whose company I truly enjoy.”
Kenimer spends his spare time converting books to audio format for the Blind and Dyslexia, as he believes all people should have access to reading and learning materials. He also enjoys golfing, cooking, and spending time with his daughter Avery, and son Will.