Buffalo Seminary:
The Charitable Beneficiary
The AGG x SEM partnership brings together two organizations dedicated to empowering young women—on the course, in the classroom, and beyond.
ABOUT BUFFALO SEMINARY
Before Girls Picked Up a Club, Buffalo Seminary Handed Them a Voice.
Founded in 1851, Buffalo Seminary has been a leader in girls’ education for 175 years. At the time, the word “seminary” stood for something new: educational opportunity for women, at the start of a growing movement toward women’s equality. Today SEM remains Western New York’s only non-sectarian school for girls, and its mission is unchanged: to prepare a diverse group of young women to be engaged scholars and citizens, proud to shape society rather than be controlled by it, and ready to live and lead with honor, courage, confidence, and compassion. Thousands of remarkable alumnae have carried that voice into the world.
“We are thrilled to be part of this extraordinary tournament, bringing our community together to champion girls’ athletics. At SEM, empowering young women to lead with honor, courage, confidence, and compassion is at the heart of our mission. We are excited to partner with organizations and community leaders who share our commitment to helping girls thrive in athletics and beyond!”
– Natalie Stothart
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION TOGETHER
Buffalo Seminary’s mission aligns seamlessly with this tournament, celebrating female athletic excellence, mentorship, and achievement. Through this partnership, SEM:
Celebrates 175 years of supporting women.
Supports women’s athletics and growing women’s sports.
Connects with families that value education & athletics.
Commits to becoming a leader in the community.
Both American Golf Girl and Buffalo Seminary share a vision: participation in sports builds confidence, resilience, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the playing field. By supporting SEM, the AGG Legacy Junior Challenge fosters opportunities for young women to develop holistically—academically, athletically, and personally.
SEM WILL ALWAYS BE HOME
Whether it’s been five years or fifty, the doors at 205 Bidwell Parkway are always open to SEM alumnae.
Many return to share their careers, their wisdom, and their stories with today’s students, showing SEM girls what’s possible and reminding them they’re part of something larger than themselves. Amy Holden Jones ’71 and Tara VanDerveer are two of those voices.
Amy Holden Jones (1971 SEM Graduate)
Screenwriter, Director & Television Producer
Film (Writer): Mystic Pizza, Beethoven, Indecent Proposal, The Getaway
Film (Director): Love Letters, Maid to Order, The Rich Man’s Wife
Television: Co-creator and executive producer of FOX’s The Resident (2018–2023); creator of ABC’s Black Box (2014)
A MESSAGE FROM TARA VANDERVEER
1971 SEM Graduate
Buffalo Seminary is where I first learned what it means to compete—really compete. Running drills in that gym, pushing myself and my teammates, figuring out how to win and how to lose with grace. SEM didn’t just teach me basketball. It taught me that being a serious athlete and a serious student weren’t in conflict— they were the same thing.
Having celebrated 175 years of leadership in girls’ education in 2026, SEM remains focused on the growth and sustainability of its athletic programs—that, frankly, I could only dream about in 1971.
These girls deserve that. I hope you’ll join us.
Tara VanDerveer
2011 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Second-winningest coach in NCAA basketball history (1,216 wins)
1996 Olympic Gold Medal as Head Coach
of Team USA
Three-time NCAA champion as Head Coach
at Stanford (1990, 1992, 2021)
Visit the Buffalo Seminary website to learn more.
CHARITABLE IMPACT
All tournament proceeds benefit Buffalo Seminary, offering meaningful opportunities for sponsors and community supporters:
Sponsor Appeal: Companies can strengthen their corporate social responsibility credentials by supporting education-focused nonprofits.
Tax Benefits: Sponsorships supporting a charitable organization offer potential tax advantages.
Community Impact: Contributions directly support programs serving students across Western New York.
Positive Association: Supporting youth character development fosters favorable public perception for sponsor brands.
STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
SEM students play an active role in the tournament, gaining hands-on experience and leadership opportunities:
Participate: Serve as volunteers, scorekeepers, marshals, registration assistants, and hospitality ambassadors.
Experience: Interact with LPGA legends, learning firsthand about dedication, perseverance, and athletic careers.
Lead: Lead ceremonies and welcome guests, showcasing the confidence SEM cultivates.
Network: Network with sponsors, community leaders, and families who value education and athletics.
Advocate: Act as school ambassadors, representing SEM’s culture and values to visitors.