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OAQHA
2023 OAQHA
OFFICER & DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS
President Heather Duer
1st Vice President Lee Heighton
2nd Vice President Kelly Rauschenbach
Treasurer Kaitlin Riker
Secretary Michelle Ceschan
Reporter Ellexxah Maxwell
Directors
Jackie Davis Hanna Hedderick Maureen Kendel Sara Oler
NEW ELECTRONIC VOTING
The Ohio Quarter Horse Association will introduce electronic balloting for the 2023 Open, Amateur, and Youth elections. Election Buddy will be used for electronic balloting, which will meet all of our needs and provide a secure format for our elections. Members can vote by email or text using their computer or mobile device. Members will receive a link, associated with their OQHA membership, via email and text. Members will be able to choose their most convenient option. The automated system will only allow members to submit one ballot.
To ensure voter security, Domain Keys and Sender Policy Framework ensure email notices reach each voter and are not marked as spam. Personal voting keys are created and used once using 256-bit encryption - the same as major banks. Two factor authentication sent to their phone will be required. All voting choices are confidential and cannot be linked to the voter.
Look for your election ballot in your email inbox in early January.
OAQHA Nominees CANDIDATES
CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT HEATHER DUER
EDUCATION
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Fenn College of Engineering at Cleveland State University and a Master of Business Administration from CSU’s Monte Ahuja College of Business.
OCCUPATION
Global Key Account Manager for the Plastic Additives business unit of BASF.
Current Involvement
I became involved with OQHA on and off throughout my late teens and early twenties. I took a brief break to finish school and start my career. I’ve been a Director, 1st Vice President, and President of OAQHA since 2018.
My mother-in-law runs a non-profit youth boating education program, Spirit of America. I assist her on an as needed basis with everything from fundraising to planning and executing their training programs. I am a lifetime member of NOQHA, SOQHA, EOQHA and OMIQHA. OQHA should build on its strong show foundation, while growing its amateur membership base and expanding service to Ohio communities.
Contribution to OAQHA
As President I intend to continue to help promote and grow our organization and the interests of the members and exhibitors. This year we are focused on giving back to our 600+ amateur members in various new ways.
Membership is waning in many different activities, not just equine ones. To retain and increase membership you must give members and exhibitors a reason to participate, a reason to care and a reason to come back. For some that will mean adding incentives, sponsors, and new classes to our shows, for others it will be increasing educational and service opportunities.
Increase & Retain
Membership Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
CANDIDATE FOR 1st VICE PRESIDENT LEE HEIGHTON
EDUCATION
I hold an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice and completed the Michigan State University School of Staff and Command.
OCCUPATION
Assigned Claims and Special Investigation Unit Manager leading a team of Private Investigators focusing on auto insurance fraud.
Current Involvement
I joined OQHA in 2017 and last year served as the 2nd Vice President for the OAQHA.
I served as a Director on the North American Flyball Association for approximately 12 years and was the Executive Director until leaving the organization to pursue my equine passion.
Contribution to OAQHA
As 2nd Vice President, I have been active in assisting the other leadership in continuing to improve our responsiveness to the members of OAQHA, along with exploring different ways to promote our organization and the sport in general.
Increase & Retain
Membership
We need to continue our efforts to create incentives for being a member of the OQHA. There are a number of competitors who live and compete in Ohio, without becoming members of OQHA. We should continue to explore options to bring these competitors into the OQHA family.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
The first priority should be to find different ways to give back to the competitors. This will lead to the second and third priorities. Keeping the current members, while increasing the number of new competitors that choose to join OQHA.
EDUCATION
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Youngstown State University.
OCCUPATION
Accountant with a public accounting firm in Warren, OH.
Current Involvement
I have been a member of OQHA for over 10 years, but most recently served as 2nd Vice President with OAQHA for 2021 and 2022. I am head of the awards committee where we were able to give away over $55,000 in prizes thanks to our generous sponsors. I am also the committee chair for the 2022 Pancake Breakfast held at Congress that supports St. Jude.
I am a member of SOQHA, EOQHA, OQHA, and NOQHA I am also a member of the Ohio society of CPAs.
Contribution to OAQHA
As a 2nd Vice President I am motivated and excited to make the Little Buckeye horse show and the Pancake Breakfast better than ever, while working to expand our outreach to other Ohio amateurs.
Increase & Retain
Membership
To increase and retain OQHA membership we need to market the perks of being an OQHA member and create a welcoming incentive to join OQHA. At this years Pancake Breakfast we plan to have OQHA membership forms available for everyone and will encourage everyone to join one of the best associations.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
OQHA should encourage each subdivision (EOQHA, NOQHA, SOQHA, OAQHA) to work together to make all the shows a success, encourage new members to join by incentivizing the membership, and get more involved in supporting other Ohio equine disciplines and community events.
CANDIDATE FOR TREASURER KAITLYN RIKER
EDUCATION
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from THE Ohio State University.
OCCUPATION
Category & Financial Planning Director at Victoria’s Secret & Co.
Current Involvement
Currently the organizations treasurer, running for re-election and previously a Director for the Amateur organization
I actively participate in Pelotonia, an annual fund-raiser and bike ride to support cancer research at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center … since I started riding, my husband and I have raised +$40k
Contribution to OAQHA
As Treasurer, I intend to continue to help promote and protect the organizations financial positioning to support our Amateur exhibitors today and for years to come.
Increase & Retain
Membership
Recruit new and retain existing amateur members by developing a fun and welcoming culture within the organization. This takes every individual to exhibit sportsmanship win, lose, or draw and engage with new individuals to usher them into our organization.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
OQHA should build on its strong show foundation via engagement with exhibitors, making Ohio the best place to show. Protect Amateur’s time and money as vital resources – supporting shows that are time-sensitive and cost efficient. Work with organizations across the industry to build new and exciting partnerships as progress walks forward with tra-
CANDIDATE FOR SECRETARY MICHELLE TRIMBLECESCHAN
EDUCATION
I have a triple degree from Robert Morris University (Moon Twp, PA) in Corporate Communications, Public Relations & Media Arts
OCCUPATION
My corporate job is in specialty commercial vehicle insurance.
I’m also known to many as the Hold It! owner, where I handmake magnetic numbers & also market my husband’s powder coating business.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
Current Involvement
I’ve been a board member going on three years, and held the Secretary position for going on two. I’ve been heavily involved in our social media presence, sponsorship, and making sure our members are having a great time at our events!
I’m also on the NOQHA board of directors, and through Hold It! a sponsor of many Ohio QH clubs, various organizations around the country.
Contribution to OAQHA
As Secretary, I’ve maintained accurate notes, kept our board members updated through email & our shared box, and am a member of the executive committee, which has made decisions on various topics through the year
As the sponsor chair, I’ve had to reset our social media page presence due to a glitch, and am working to make sure our sponsors receive accurate recognition by utilizing social media tactics
I’ve also worked with other committees & board members to make sure we have accurate information on our social media page for events & information pertinent to OAQHA through social media. a. Supporting our members at shows & events b. Having the BEST Amateur-centric show with The Little Buckeye c. Supporting OQHA at the All American Quarter Horse Congress with banner charity events such as the Pancake Breakfast & pertinent events to encourage membership & involvement
Increase & Retain
Membership
I think that we’ve been making great strides with our events & show through the years, which is a direct result of our efforts. It has been interesting to see the amount of work that goes into this through the year for our show, and I’m looking forward to increasing our efforts through the year for other events & initiatives
CANDIDATE FOR REPORTER ELLEXXAH MAXWELL
EDUCATION
I recently earned my Associate’s Degree in Arts with a specialization in Business Management.
OCCUPATION
I run my own Professional Banding Business, as well as work part-time for OQHA and Rod’s.
Current Involvement
I’ve been involved with OQHA since I was 6, I served on the OQHYA Board for several years. Serving as their Director, Reporter, Vice President, and President. I am currently serving as a Director for the OAQHA Board.
I am involved with our other state associations as well such as EOQHA, SOQHA, NOQHA, and IQHA. I previously served for AQHYA and found a love for giving back to those in need. I donate to food drives and clothing drives whenever I can.
Contribution to OAQHA
I look to continue to bring a new outlook to our association. I am a more recent amateur and I think it is in the best interest to our association that we continue to evolve and change just as our industry does.
Increase & Retain
Membership
I always believe that we need to continue to draw new membership in. However, I think that this is a much easier task when we give back to the members that give so much to us and give them a reason to encourage new and current members to get more involved. We need to make sure our membership knows just how much impact they can have on the future of our association.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
OQHA needs to continue to evolve and make changes in an ever changing industry to stay up to date on doing the best we can for our members, We also need try and be more inclusive in our vast majority of members. We have such a large member base with so little of it really involved. Finally we need to make sure that fun is always included in what we do. The majority of our members do horses as a hobby or a getaway from everyday life so we need to ensure that they enjoy their time with us and want to come back time and time again.
CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR JACKIE DAVIS
EDUCATION
Advanced EMT, CPR instructor.
OCCUPATION
In the fall of 2022, I returned to the private sector and work remotely in health insurance for an orthotics and prosthetics company. Prior to this, I worked many years in the public sector for a fire department.
Current Involvement
I returned to showing, as a Select exhibitor, in Ohio in 2020. During this time, my interest, time and involvement has gradually increased in OAQHA. I volunteered at the 2022 Little Buckeye checking in the competitors during the youth showmanship classes and experienced my first pancake breakfast at the 2022 Quarter Horse Congress. I learned that both these events are very large undertakings for the OAQHA. I became interested in how I could take a more active role in the organization.
I am a member of EOQHA, NOQHA,SOQHA and OMIQHA.
Contribution to OAQHA
In the Fall of 2022, I accepted an open Director’s position after helping with a very successful pancake breakfast at the 2022 All American Quarter Horse Congress. I am looking forward to helping and learning, in more detail, about the 2023 Little Buckeye and other events the OAQHA is actively involved in.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
In the next 2-3 years I would like see more of our members take an active role in the amateur association, increasing our visibility and working on new ways to work with the other associations in Ohio.
Increase & Retain
Membership
It is important that our members are having fun. Events should be fun, affordable, well run and timely. Having activities, drawings, raffles, etc, during events that our liked, fun and interesting to our members will hopefully encourage involvement and interest in joining OQHA. If members are enjoying their “horse show weekends,” they will share this with family and friends. We want our current members sharing their positive experiences to increase interest in who OQHA is and what it is all about. OQHA should always be looking for new ways to support our members in achieving their goals and celebrating their successes.
CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR HANNA HEDDERICK
EDUCATION
I received my Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Findlay and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Tiffin University.
OCCUPATION
Financial Analyst in the Investor Relations department at Marathon Petroleum Company.
Current Involvement
I was involved with OQHA as a youth exhibitor; however, I was more involved with my local (NOQHA) association. I took a break from AQHA during college while I competed on my universities equestrian team and re-entered OQHA just before graduating in 2018. I joined as a director for OAQHA towards the end of 2021.
I am a member of the Findlay Young Professionals organization. I am a lifetime member of NOQHA & OQHA, and a member of SOQHA and EOQHA.
Contribution to OAQHA
In my first year as a director, I really enjoyed getting to bring ideas to the table for the Little Buckeye. Our Annual Pancake Breakfast has been a lot of fun to work and raise money for! I look forward to continuing to bring new ideas to the organization and helping plan and run the Little Buckeye.
Increase & Retain
Membership
I think the best way to retain and drive OQHA membership is by strengthening the sense of community. Hosting events and making any and all feel welcomed will result in a strengthened membership. Partnering with businesses for OQHA member discounts could incentivize memberships.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
OQHA has a huge platform that could be better used to serve communities and its members. Another focus should be on improving the infrastructure of OQHA shows. There is always room for improvement and OQHA should look at each of their strengths and weaknesses and develop annual improvements.
CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR MAUREEN KENDEL
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts from John Carroll University. Certificate, Executive in Health Care, Weatherhead School of Management, CWRU
OCCUPATION
Manager of Faculty Affairs and Special Projects, Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing, Case Western Reserve University (CWRU)
Current Involvement
My daughter was 2012 OQHA Queen. Since that time, I have been very interested in the work the organization does. Since my daughter is now anamateur, and since we have a long-standing relationship with OAQHA President Heather Duer (from back in our 4-H days), I have taken a greater interest in what the OAQHA does for its amateurs.
I was very active in 4-H when my children were involved. Most recently, I have volunteered with the OAQHA at the Little Buckeye show.
Contribution to OAQHA
I was happy to fill a varierty of volunteer needs at the 2022 Little Buckeye horse show. Having filled a recent vacancy as a Director, I was excited to contribute to the Annual Congress Pancake Breakfast and the blood drive. I look forward to continuing to bring new ideas to the organization and have already been assigned important tasks for the 2023 Little Buckeye.
Increase & Retain
Membership
a. Strengthen sense of community b. Show value for participation c. Strive to make the Little Buckeye consistently the best horse show in Ohio
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
a. Improve communication - keep all amateurs well-informed about the benefits of membership and activities of the association
b. Increase benefits for members
c. Continue to produce a high-quality horse show
CANDIDATE FOR DIRECTOR SARA OLER
EDUCATION
Ihave a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Cincinnati and a Masters of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Tiffin University.
OCCUPATION
I am a Motor Fuel Tax Analyst at Marathon Petroleum Company in Findlay, OH
Current Involvement
I became involved with OQHA when I started showing as a youth. As I’ve continued my showing into my amateur years, I’ve become more involved with the organization. In 2021, I began as a director for OAQHA.
I volunteer as a horse leader for Challenged Champions Equestrian Center, an equestrian therapy barn for individuals with various disabilities. I also volunteer with various organizations through the United Way several times throughout the year. On top of OQHA, I am also a member of SOQHA, NOQHA, and EOQHA.
Contribution to OAQHA
At the 2022 Little Buckeye, I was the co-chair for the Exhibitor Food & Party Committee in which we fed over 400 people three different meals. I was also a member of the Awards Committee for the show assisting with halter high-point awards. In addition, I helped with the 2021 & 2022 Pancake Breakfasts.
Increase & Retain
Membership
Overall, members are the core of our association. Without members, we do not have an organization. In order to increase and retain OQHA membership, I believe it is important to offer incentives and a sense of community. When members feel as though their voice can be heard, they are likely to continue being a committed member of an association.
Top 3 Priorities for OAQHA
I believe OQHA should continue to grow across the state of Ohio while giving back to members and continuously looking for ways to improve horse shows with members in mind.
