Riley Elder only started playing golf three years ago, but the impact the game has had on her will last a lifetime. She recently earned the Walter M. Galyk Scholarship, which provides $10,000 over four years. It will make her years at UNLV much less stressful and allow her to focus on her goals and education.
“Honestly, knowing that I don’t have to worry about paying for all of school anymore takes away so much anxiety and stress,” Elder said. “I will be able to focus on school without constantly worrying about the financial side of things. I will also be able to focus on a lot of other opportunities, and my parents will be able to support my goals outside of school without having to carry that financial burden.
“I want to thank the Galyks, the scholarship committee, and the SNJGA for everything they have done for the community and for creating opportunities like this for students. I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship and for everyone who helped make it possible.”
Riley was one of four Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association members to earn the Galyk Scholarship. The late Walter and Camille Galyk instructed their estate to continue to underwrite an annual benefit tournament held at Golf Summerlin that will raise funds and help young people pursue their educations after high school graduation.
Riley graduated from Boulder City High School and will major in civil engineering at UNLV, with the goal of someday working for the Water District. She was part of two state championship teams at Boulder City and finished fifth individually at the 2025 3A State Championships.
“It was wonderful to win those titles and to play junior golf and high school golf,” Elder said. “Golf gave me such a unique community to be around other girls who are part of a smaller segment of the golf world. I loved being able to compete with them and have fun. It was amazing to see how many different paths brought us all to the game. It was very rewarding seeing all of the hard work pay off. It is a special feeling when you achieve something you have worked so hard for. It gives you a real sense of accomplishment.”
In a short time, golf has become an important part of Elder’s life.
“I’ve been playing golf for a little more than three years, and it has taught me a lot about perseverance and dedication,” Elder said. “It has shown me the importance of sticking with something even when it is difficult. I have also met so many people with different life experiences. Learning from their stories has helped shape my own goals and aspirations.
“I want people to know that I am determined to be successful and that I’ll do whatever it takes to achieve my goals. Even when things are difficult, I’ll keep working and stay committed.”
Galyk Scholarship Will Make Positive Impact for Riley Elder
Riley Elder only started playing golf three years ago, but the impact the game has had on her will last a lifetime. She recently earned the Walter M. Galyk Scholarship, which provides $10,000 over four years. It will make her years at UNLV much less stressful and allow her to focus on her goals and education.
“Honestly, knowing that I don’t have to worry about paying for all of school anymore takes away so much anxiety and stress,” Elder said. “I will be able to focus on school without constantly worrying about the financial side of things. I will also be able to focus on a lot of other opportunities, and my parents will be able to support my goals outside of school without having to carry that financial burden.
“I want to thank the Galyks, the scholarship committee, and the SNJGA for everything they have done for the community and for creating opportunities like this for students. I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship and for everyone who helped make it possible.”
Riley was one of four Southern Nevada Junior Golf Association members to earn the Galyk Scholarship. The late Walter and Camille Galyk instructed their estate to continue to underwrite an annual benefit tournament held at Golf Summerlin that will raise funds and help young people pursue their educations after high school graduation.
Riley graduated from Boulder City High School and will major in civil engineering at UNLV, with the goal of someday working for the Water District. She was part of two state championship teams at Boulder City and finished fifth individually at the 2025 3A State Championships.
“It was wonderful to win those titles and to play junior golf and high school golf,” Elder said. “Golf gave me such a unique community to be around other girls who are part of a smaller segment of the golf world. I loved being able to compete with them and have fun. It was amazing to see how many different paths brought us all to the game. It was very rewarding seeing all of the hard work pay off. It is a special feeling when you achieve something you have worked so hard for. It gives you a real sense of accomplishment.”
In a short time, golf has become an important part of Elder’s life.
“I’ve been playing golf for a little more than three years, and it has taught me a lot about perseverance and dedication,” Elder said. “It has shown me the importance of sticking with something even when it is difficult. I have also met so many people with different life experiences. Learning from their stories has helped shape my own goals and aspirations.
“I want people to know that I am determined to be successful and that I’ll do whatever it takes to achieve my goals. Even when things are difficult, I’ll keep working and stay committed.”
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