Inaugural Equine Internship Encounter
APRIL 2019
UK Equine Alumni & Friends Tailgate at the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event
C ON TE N TS
UK Ag Equine Programs hosts Equine Assisted Activities, Learning and Therapy Seminar PAGE 7
UK Ag Equine Programs hosted its first Equine Assisted Activities, Learning and Therapy Seminar in the Seay Auditorium on UK’s campus. This event was open to UK students, faculty and staff, community members and students from other universities who were interested in learning more about professional and volunteer opportunities in the field.
UK Ag Equine Programs says thank you and good luck to its two student interns PAGE 8
For the past year, UK Ag Equine Programs has had the fortune of employing two very talented interns. As they move on to the next chapters in their lives and careers, we wish them the very best of luck along the way with many thanks for their time and talents.
“What are you going to do with that major?” PAGE 14
Undergraduate student, Grace Vaseuez blogs about her major and her love for the equine idustry. “People accuse me of thinking with my heart rather than my mind when I tell them my love for the equine industry, but I am most definitely thinking with both”
Other features UK Ag Equine Programs’ Saddlebred-Focused Video Receives Recognition by Lexington-Based PRSA Chapter- PAGE 11 Grad Students Compete in Annual 3MT Competition - PAGE 12 Equine Ambassador Program Debuts- PAGE 15 Spring Internship Showcase Highlights Intern Experiences- PAGE 18
U PC O M IN G E V ENTS AND I MPORTAN T DEADLINES • May 2, ESMA Graduation Open House, 4:30-6 p.m., UK Gatton Student Center Great Hall • May 2, UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Graduate Farewell, 6 p.m. Student Center Ballroom • May 3, Graduation • May 30, UK Equine Farm & Facilities Expo, Olive HIll Sport Horses, 3:30 - 8 p.m.
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W E L COM E
Welcome The great Dr. Seuss once wrote “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” As the semester comes to an end, my position here at University of Kentucky has afforded me the opportunity to work with prospective students, current students, graduating seniors and our wonderful equine alums – and all in this past week alone! These opportunities were a great reminder to me that students can do and be anything they want to be if they set a goal and work towards it. High Schoolers – When looking for a school, make sure it’s everything you are looking for and more. Visit the campus. Talk with the instructors about the curriculum and courses you’ll be learning from. Sit in on a class. And make sure there’s an equine community for you to become part of to learn and network and help you grow as a professional. Current Students – Take every opportunity you can to learn and grow. Do the internship. Work the part time job. Study for the test. Join the club or team. Attend class. Read your email and visit the job boards available to you. Find ways to network with the diverse industry professionals we have right here in our own backyard. Talk with your professors. Set a career goal and work towards it. Graduating Seniors –Use your equine knowledge and skills, as well as the work experience you’ve gained during your time here at UK, and put it into action. Find the job or the next adventure that you’ll love most. Wherever your dreams are, follow them. Equine Alums – Continue to learn. Attend the workshop. Take the new job. Stay involved. Network and help provide opportunities for our students so they can grow just as you once did. Be that starting place for new adventures to happen. No matter what stage of life you in, if you are looking for or currently in your dream job within the equine industry, please know that you can be successful if you a dedicated to making it happen. “You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So... get on your way!” Dr. Seuss, Oh, The Places You’ll Go! Kristen Wilson, Academic Coordinator
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M A STHE A D
Wildcat Canter Editorial Staff
Samantha Geller, contributing writer, layout Misty Medeiros, contributing writer Holly Wiemers, MA, APR, senior editor, contributing writer, layout
Wildcat Canter Editorial Board
Camie Heleski, PhD, lecturer Danielle Jostes, MA, equine philanthropy director Mick Peterson, PhD, equine programs director Savannah Robin, MS, internship coordinator Kristine Urschel, PhD, director of undergraduate studies Kristen Wilson, MS, academic program coordinator
Ag Equine Programs
College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
N212 Ag Sciences Building North Lexington, KY 40546-0091 Office: (859) 257-2226 equine@uky.edu www.uky.edu/equine
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WI L DCAT CANT ER | APRIL 2019 | 4
photo by Jimmy Henning
C LUBS AN D T EAM S D IR E CTORY DR E SSA G E TEAM
Advisor: Dr. Jill Stowe, jill.stowe@uky.edu President: Lindsay O’Hara, OfficialUKDressageTeam@gmail.com Facebook: UK Dressage and Eventing
U K EVENT ING
Advisor: Dr. Jill Stowe, jill.stowe@uky.edu President: Macy Clark, macyclark23@gmail.com Facebook: UK Dressage Team
PO L O TEAM
Advisor: Dr. Roger Brown, rogerbrown@uky.edu Dr. Jamie MacLeod, jnmacleod@uky.edu President: Ben Lynch, benjamin.lynch@uky.edu Facebook: U of Kentucky Polo
R . E. A. D . CL UB
Advisor: Dr. Kristine Urschel, klur222@uky.edu President: Katie Simmons, kesi226@g.uky.edu Facebook: READ Club
E Q UE ST RIA N TEAM Advisor: Dr. Bob Coleman, rcoleman@uky.edu
H UNT SEAT TEAM
President: Mackenzie Mentzer, uk.equestrianteam@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Equestrian Team
W ES TERN TEAM
President: Jamie Henley, ukwesternequestrian@gmail.com
R O D EO TEAM
Advisor: Monty Ott, monty.ott@uky.edu President: Channing McWilliams, ukrodeoteam@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Rodeo Team
SAD D L E SEAT TEAM
Advisor: Dr. Mary Rossano, mary.rossano@uky.edu President: Audrey Schneider, uksaddleseatteam@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Saddleseat Team
Facebook: UKY Western IHSA Team
HO R S E RA C ING CLUB
Advisor: Dr. Laurie Lawrence, llawrenc@uky.edu President: Julie Witt, ukhorseracingclub@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Horse Racing Club
WI L DCAT CANT ER | APRIL 2019 | 5
FEAT U R E STORY
UK Equine Farm and Facilities Expo to be held May 30 By Holly Wiemers
University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs will host its annual Farm and Facilities Expo from 3:30 - 8 p.m. EDT Thursday, May 30th, at Olive Hill Sporthorses, 4746 Huffman Mill Pike, Lexington, Kentucky. The event is free and open to the public. A meal will be provided for those in attendance. Farm managers and horse owners alike will have the opportunity explore visitor booths and see displays for every aspect of horse farm management. Speakers will provide educational talks about harnessing on-farm solar potential, overseeding damaged pasture, weed control on horse farms and utilizing hay feeders to reduce waste. “With all of the rain in 2018, pastures are likely to be thin and damaged. Part of this program will be focused on what horse owners and managers can do to help pastures recover and prevent that type of damage in the future,” said Ray Smith, forage extension specialist with UK’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “Brian and Diana have a unique facility that horse owners of all types will enjoy seeing,” said Krista Lea, research analyst and coordinator of the UK Horse Pasture Evaluation Program. It’s the perfect setting for this program, which draws an excellent crowd every year.” While not required, an RSVP is appreciated for food planning purposes. Please email DL_CES_Fayette@ email.uky.edu or call the Fayette Extension Office at 859-257-5582 to register. Olive Hill Sporthorses offers a sales and training program and is owned and operated by UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment alums Brian and Diana Conlon. The facility also hosts the UK Equestrian Team, hunt seat division.
Bluegrass Equine Digest Check out the April issue of the Bluegrass Equine Digest, a free, monthly electronic newsletter dedicated to providing up-to-date information on equine research from the University of Kentucky’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environment in collaboration with TheHorse. com and sponsored by Zoetis. Click here to see this month’s stories. • • • •
Computer Models and Parasite Control Methods Racing Surfaces: Risks and Research Potomac Horse Fever in Kentucky Boil-Water Notices: What About Horses?
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FEAT URE STORY
UK Ag Equine Programs hosts its first Equine Assisted Activities, Learning and Therapy Seminar By Samantha Geller UK Ag Equine Programs hosted its first Equine Assisted Activities, Learning and Therapy Seminar in the Seay Auditorium on UK’s campus April 3. This event was open to UK students, faculty and staff, community members and students from other universities who were interested in learning more about professional and volunteer opportunities in the field. The event was a culmination of hard work between Savannah Robin, internship coordinator, Katie Strayer, a current student and U.S. Military Veteran, and Laura Friday, Hooves Laura Friday from Hooves of Hope, speaks to of Hope. Strayer wanted to expose her classmates and the attendees. community to opportunities in the field because equine assisted activities impacted her personally. The event welcomed equine assisted activity professionals from the area, including an occupational therapist, representatives Hooves of Hope, Annie’s Answer and Safe Haven Equine Ministries. Laura Friday, an Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) equine specialist from Hooves of Hope, shared stories of life-changing experiences with horses and the clients she has worked with. As an EAGALA equine specialist, Friday collaborates with a mental health professional and the client to utilize a horse in equineassisted learning activities. Allie Barnett, a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH INTL.) certified therapeutic riding Instructor from Safe Haven Equine Ministries, shared the many different certifications available for those interested Alexandria Pannett from Annie’s Answer showcases in these types of volunteer or career paths. Barnett explained the organization’s work. to attendees the differences between various equineassisted activities as well as the certifications needed to work in each activity. UK Equine Science and Management alumna, Jessica Perkins, who is an occupational therapist (OT), shared how the movement of the horse can be used as a tool in OT, physical therapy (PT) as well as speech language pathology (SLP). Perkins also took time to address a common misconception in her field. “There is no time when the therapist stops doing PT, OT or ST and starts doing ‘Hippotherapy,’” Perkins said about the consideration of a career in hippotherapy. “Being able to partner with ESMA senior Katie Strayer and industry connection Laura Friday on planning and hosting this event was also a special component because it was driven from their hearts for equine assisted activities, learning and Allie Barnett, one of Midway University’s attendees, is pictured with Safe Haven Equine Ministries’ volunteers. therapy,” said Robin.
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F EAT U R E S TORY
UK Ag Equine Programs says thank you and good luck to its two student interns
For the past year, UK Ag Equine Programs has had the fortune of employing two very talented interns. As they move on to the next chapters in their lives and careers, we wish them the very best of luck along the way with many thanks for their time and talents. Here’s a bit from each of them as they conclude their internships with us.
Samantha Geller
If you had to ask me my favorite memory from my time here at UK Ag Equine Programs, it wouldn’t just be one, it would be a highlight reel. My internship has been full of amazing opportunities, filled with laugher, new friendships and really getting a wide view at the industry I love so much. From early morning meetings with professors and graduate students in the Gluck Equine Research Center, to live tweeting from our Veterinarian Continuing Education event, to racing bouncy horses at the Kentucky Three Day Event- there’s never been a dull day in the office. Coming into the office each day, I knew that I would be doing something I love with the most amazing faculty and staff. I apologize to anyone who has asked me about my internship. I have probably talked your ear off, but you asked for it. This week, my time at UK Ag Equine Programs wraps up. I will now be embarking on a new adventure, this time up the street. In June, I will begin working on my MBA at UK in the Gatton College of Business and Economics. I am so excited for this opportunity and can’t wait to see where it takes me. Before I sign off, I wanted to thank all of UK Ag Equine Programs’ faculty and staff. They have brought me along, answered my many questions and not only grown me as a writer, but also as a student, and future professional in the industry. I also want to thank Holly Wiemers individually for taking me under her wing. I have learned so much from my time working for her, and I am so excited to take what I have learned during my internship and utilize it in my career.
Misty Medeiros
I want to start off by thanking all of the wonderful women and Mick for the amazing opportunity I got to have working as an intern in the Equine Office. I had no idea what I was getting myself into working here, but it was one of the best places I have ever worked. I got to work on so many projects that benefit the program and even plan some of my own events along the way. Not to mention all the fun I had while I was here. If I had to pick something about this job that I enjoyed the most, it would have to be getting the opportunity to plan and put on my own event. Back in the fall when I started as an intern here, I started on a project that would finally be put into place this spring. I put on the second Equine Internship Encounter at Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital. It was an experience for our students to meet possible employers and see different aspects of the industry. I had a blast planning it for last semester and it was so rewarding watching it play out this past March.
continued on page 9...
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FEAT URE STORY continued from page 8...
More than anything, working with these amazing women was the best part of my job. Getting to see how an office works and how talented each one of the women is was very inspiring to me. Each one of them brought something different to the table and getting to do tasks for them was so much fun. I am going to miss working with all of them. Also seeing the behind-the-scenes of how this program runs really made me appreciate all that is done for me. Then being able to help the success of other students was extremely rewarding for me because I felt as if I was helping someone else like the women did for me in this office. Even though I will miss this place dearly, I will be interning with Cooperative Extension in Boone and Campbell County this summer. I am going to be working with agent Don Sorrell, and I just can’t wait to see what is in store for me up in northern Kentucky. I am beyond excited for this summer and this opportunity to be working in extension since that is the job field I am really interested in for my future. From all of the skills I have learned here, I know they will help me this summer and for the rest of my career and I will also be grateful for this opportunity. Again I want to thank the equine program for this amazing opportunity to intern in such an incredible working environment and equine program. I truly value everything that I have learned here and it was a pleasure working for office.
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S T U DE N T F E ATURE
$100,000 Grant from NTRA Charities to establish new UK Equine Surfaces and Safety Laboratory By Holly Wiemers, Photo by Samantha Geller
A gift of $100,000 announced today by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Charities will enable the University of Kentucky to further support equine surfaces and safety research under the direction of Mick Peterson, director of UK Ag Equine Programs. Funds will be used to renovate existing space within the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment to create the NTRA Charities Equine Surfaces and Safety Laboratory. The investment will allow UK to make a meaningful impact on the sport of horse racing through surface and safety research conducted by Peterson, a nationally known expert in surface safety and faculty member in the UK Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering. “NTRA Charities is excited to support UK’s new Equine Surfaces and Safety Research Laboratory, which through its important work will absolutely lead to a safer racing environment for our human and equine athletes,” said NTRA President and CEO Alex Waldrop. “This presents a unique opportunity to achieve significant advancements in the science of creating and maintaining safer racetrack surfaces. This lab will also help us train the next generation of track maintenance personnel to analyze the wealth of data that will soon be available to keep racing surfaces as safe as possible.” In 2016, UK acted upon the recognized need to expand its research capabilities in the area of safety and recruited Peterson as a faculty member and director of UK Ag Equine Programs. Peterson joined the team, relocating the Racing Surfaces Testing Laboratory (RSTL) to Kentucky, and he continues to improve the safety of horse and rider in horse racing and sport horse endeavors. “NTRA has reviewed variations on this proposal for nearly two years and we are very pleased to see it go forward. The job does not end here. We anticipate continued calls on the industry to fund specific surfaces research projects undertaken in this new laboratory,” said Steve Koch, executive director, NTRA Safety and Integrity Alliance. “The UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is committed to our signature equine industry in all ways. In particular, we are dedicated to all aspects of safety in our sport,” said Dean Nancy Cox. “This gift allows us to do important research to assist Thoroughbred racing and to create a pipeline of experts to serve racetrack safety.” Under the direction of Peterson, RSTL has been particularly effective at reinforcing the welfare and safety commitment through its central testing laboratory for dirt, turf and synthetic racing surface materials. To date, testing has included more than 70 different racing and training tracks around the world. Equipment development from the lab includes riding crop design assessment, testing maintenance equipment and performance tests of starting gate and rail padding. continued on page 11...
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FEAT URE STORY continued from page 10... The RSTL materials laboratory inspired efforts by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) that have now expanded activities to arena surfaces testing, including large scale sample analysis that is available only in Sweden. “This laboratory will allow us to do racetrack surfaces testing on a larger scale to permit us to replicate surface properties using maintenance equipment on the surfaces, which have been observed on racetracks but are not well understood. Understanding racetrack maintenance is key to providing a consistent racing surface regardless of the weather,” Peterson said. The laboratory will work to solve today’s problems associated with surface and safety research. Projects which are currently funded but have previously been space constrained include: • The development of real-time moisture sensors for racing surfaces • Shoeing effects on swing phase joint loading • Real-time sensing of gait parameters • Subsurface design of racetracks • The effect of harrowing on the formation of the racetrack hardpan • New tools for the measurement of cushion depth on dirt racetracks and moisture and penetration resistance on turf tracks The laboratory has the potential to offer substantial new areas for industry development, including: • The effect of a harrowed racing surface on optimal helmet design • The potential for new horseshoe designs to reduce loading rate for arteriosclerosis risk reduction • The development of new sensors for fan engagement and handicapping data using ‘internet of things’ technologies Additionally, the expanded laboratory would provide space for undergraduate and graduate students to learn from and participate in innovative research and for important entities within the industry, such as track superintendents, to advance their knowledge and skills in a hands‐on setting.
F EAT U R E STORY
Renovation is expected to begin by summer with space beginning to be used for research within a few months.
UK Ag Equine Programs’ Saddlebred-focused video receives recognition by Lexington-based PRSA chapter By Holly Wiemers
“Kentucky is the Greatest Place in the World to be a Horse Person – Saddlebreds by UK Ag Equine Programs,” was recognized with a “place” award in the multimedia category of the annual awards luncheon held by the Lexington-based chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) April 16. The Thoroughbred Chapter began an annual awards program in 2002 to honor the outstanding efforts of its members. The award program recognizes exceptional work in various categories. Fittingly, its awards are labeled “win,” “place,” and show, with categorization earned by independent judges from another PRSA chapter somewhere else in the country. The video was planned and executed by past UK Ag Equine Programs’ staff member Alexandra Harper and UK Ag Communications videographer Brian Volland. To see the video in its entirety, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HU9Vn6jSq_0
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F EAT U R E STORY
UK Gluck Center grad students compete in annual 3MT competition By Samantha Geller On April 4, University of Kentucky graduate students in the Department of Veterinary Science participated in its annual 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. According to Daniel Howe, professor in the Gluck Equine Research center, the competition showcases the research being conducted by post-qualifying graduate students in the program. “It is also a beneficial experience for the students in that it helps them to improve their communication skills,” he said. The competition, which was developed by the University of Queensland, has been hosted at various levels throughout UK, including departmental, college, and university-wide since 2013. The rules are simple. Competitors have no more than three minutes to present their research and its significance to a general audience. The presenter is allowed one static presentation side, and no props or costumes. UK is one of nine South Eastern Conference schools to host a 3MT competition, ultimately sending the highest ranked presenter to Conference of Southern Graduate Schools Annual Meeting, where they will compete with other individuals from other universities. “The 3MT challenges the students to communicate the significance of their research projects in a concise fashion that can be understood by a general, or non-scientific, audience,” Howe said. This year, eight PhD candidates participated in the event. “All of the presenters did a fantastic job, and I did not envy the judges their task of selecting the awardees,” Howe said. “Ultimately, I think the judges chose the presenters who told the most clear and compelling story. “ The winners were: • Ashton Miller (from the lab of Amanda Adams, associate professor at the Gluck Center) – 1st • ChanHee Mok (from the lab of James MacLeod, John S. and Elizabeth A. Knight Chair, professor at the Gluck Center) – 2nd • Yatta Linhares Boakari (from the lab of Barry Ball, Barry Ball, Albert G. Clay Endowed Chair in Equine Reproduction, professor at the Gluck Center) – 3rd All competitors were encouraged to participate in the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment competition, which was held April 12, as well as the university-wide 3MT competition, which will be held at a later date. A recording of the competition can be found at the links below. Entire Competition: https://youtu.be/k2zdqOwTR24 Jennifer Bellaw: https://youtu.be/55hRvOMVHPE Wangisa Dunuwille: https://youtu.be/p5R93F5ZBNc Yatta Boakari: https://youtu.be/nEabDxsbM-Q Jessica Kenealy: https://youtu.be/WXDGTx65z8k ChanHee Mok: https://youtu.be/bM9vzUwxVkg Fatai Oladunni: https://youtu.be/Dk0RQT0rwnc Ashley Steuer: https://youtu.be/nCCX-zSNXMQ
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FEATURE URESTORY STORY FEAT
UK holds inaugural Horse Industry Safety Summit By Holly Wiemers The University of Kentucky Ag Equine Programs, Saddle Up Safely and other partnering organizations hosted an inaugural Horse Industry Safety Summit on April 23 at Spindletop Hall in Lexington. The event featured researchers, equestrians and equine enthusiasts in a format that combined expert panels, individual speakers and poster presentations. The day focused solely on ways to keep equine riders and handlers safe. Sessions included: • A welcome address by Hall of Fame Jockey Chris McCarron • How helmets protect riders’ heads by Stephanie Bonin, senior biomechanical engineer with MEA Forensic Engineers and Scientists • The role of nutrition and fitness in rider safety and performance by Daniel Steward, Pressure Proof Coaching Academy • Concussion baseline testing and return to ride protocol by Carl Mattacola, director of the Jockey Equestrian Initiative and professor and associate dean of academic and faculty affairs in the UK College of Health Sciences • Life-changing aspects of a TBI by Mindy Coleman, counsel for the Jockey’s Guild, Inc. • The importance of protective vests by Sarah Andres, Safety Committee chair, U.S. Pony Club • Learn to fall by Danny and Keli Warrington, Landsafe Equestrian • Analysis of jockey injury reporting at Maryland Thoroughbred racetracks by Gabrielle Garruppo, researcher, MedStar’s Maryland Horsemen’s Health • A multidisciplinary approach to post-concussion care for equestrians, Lisa Harris, physical therapist, Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital • Effective online equine behavior and safety education for members of the equine industry, Gayle Ecker, director of Equine Guelph • An equestrian perspective safety panel, moderated by Jen Roytz, Retired Racehorse Project, featured Pat Day, Hall of Fame Jockey, Richard Picken, show jumping coach; Jane Beshear, former First Lady of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and avid amateur rider; and Eric Hamelback, former farm manager • An organizational perspective safety panel, moderated by Dan Fick, Racing Officials Accreditation Program, featured Mindy Coleman, Jockey’s Guild; Sonja Keating, United States Equestrian Federation; Carol Kozlowski, United States Eventing Association; Vince Gabbert, Keeneland; Steve Koch, National Thoroughbred Racing Association; and Eric Hamelback, National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association The summit organizing committee consisted of representatives from UK Ag Equine Programs, UK College of Health Science, Kentucky 4-H Horse Program, United States Pony Clubs, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, Retired Racehorse Project, Saddle Up Safely, North American Racing Academy and UK College of Public Health. The Horse Industry Safety Summit was sponsored by UK Ag Equine Programs, UK HealthCare, Kentucky Horse Council, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Landsafe Equestrian, the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Dinsmore Equine Law/Laura Holoubek and Ride Safe.
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S T U DE N T F E ATURE
From our students...some of the pieces written in a provocative new course An important part of the mission of our program includes undergraduate education, specifically with our Equine Science and Management undergraduate degree program. A new class that piloted last spring – taught by Camie Heleski, a faculty member and lecturer within the program – is one designed to present provocative, often controversial issues that are current to the equine industry. In EQM 305, Equine Industry Issues, students are introduced to topics, heard from speakers, researched information and communicated about industry issues in written and oral formats. The course is designed to expose students to hot button issues in the industry and encourage them to research and formulate well-communicated opinions about those issues. One avenue made available to this course is publishing some of those stories here. Here one of the written pieces that emerged from students in this course. They are meant to be provocative and sometimes controversial.
“What are you going to do with that major?” By Grace Vasquez, student in EQM 305
As an equestrian eventer, I have handled the criticism that comes with being in the equine industry for far longer than my college years. However, the “arguments” made by those uneducated on anything relating to the horse have evolved since I’ve embarked on this journey. Equine Science and Management is a unique major. It is not commonly found at universities and little is known about what the major entails. With this lack of knowledge people are often left to imagine what careers could come from this degree. Even my father, who was thoroughly knowledgeable and involved in the industry, let out a sigh of worry when I announced I would be pursuing this career path. He, like most of society, immediately voiced his concerns. Let’s review the ones I’ve most commonly heard: “What are you going to do with that major?” “You don’t need a degree to be a horse trainer.” “You don’t need a degree to become a farmer.” “So… are you a double major?” “Thank God you have a minor to fall back on.” “Why don’t you double major?” “You’re going to make absolutely no money and end up homeless.” While I appreciate the concerns, I know that these comments do not apply to me or the majority of my classmates. I came into this major with the intention of becoming an Equine Genetics Researcher and working at the Gluck Center (which is the best equine research center in the world, did you know that?). On average, if one works for the government while having this job, they make around $100,000 a year. This is just one career path out of many successful ones in the industry. The equine industry is much larger than just horse trainers and “farmers”, although both are still incredibly important. This ignorant thought process seems to be a continuation of the “horse riding isn’t a sport” argument, just at an upper level. When I am faced with one of these replies, I just simply laugh. There is no reason to argue with someone. At the end of the day, people are going to stubbornly stick to their beliefs anyway. I take this criticism as an opportunity to educate. Rather than argue, I’m excited to show society what the industry really is about. The doubt in my ability to become “successful” upon graduation motivates me to excel in all my classes, each semester leaving those not a part of my industry speechless. After all, I did get into the University of Kentucky, didn’t I? This university is not one to be ignored. Classes are challenging with the intention of educating students to become leaders in whatever career they pursue, including equine related ones. It still baffles me that society can grin with excitement when they hear that I attend UK on a full ride, yet their expression immediately fades when they discover my plans for the future. I am passionate about my major and absolutely adore everything about it, while still learning new things in every single lecture. continued on page 15...
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URE FSTORY SFEAT T UDENT E ATUR E continued from page 14...
I don’t groan or feel anxious when I enter my EQM or ASC classes after a long day on North campus. To me, my equine classes are my escape. Shouldn’t everyone’s major feel like that? People accuse me of thinking with my heart rather than my mind when I tell them my love for the equine industry, but I am most definitely thinking with both. I have had a lot of success in my 20 years of life, it’s funny to me how people can stop trusting me now. The industry is my home, and its endless opportunities are my future. I may not always have a plan, but I know I have the Ag Equine advisors and professors to help me figure one out. The staff I am surrounded by are, quite literally, the best researchers in the world concerning the industry and don’t take their jobs lightly. I am confident that with the University of Kentucky, the major I chose is the best possible major I could be in. I am excited for each class I walk into, and I can’t wait to see where my future takes me. Our industry may seem like it’s just a bunch of cowgirls, but that’s not the case. Before you judge me, take a second to realize that it’s possible to be successful and happy at the same time. I found a place where I am surrounded by laid back, caring people while still learning more each day. I don’t think anything can mean more to me than that.
Wildcat Wranglers equine ambassador program debuts By Samantha Geller
Wildcat Wranglers, a new equine student ambassador program, debuted this month and 20 Equine Science and Management undergraduate students became front and center representatives of UK’s equine major at equine industry and recruitment events. “The Wildcat Wrangler program is a unique leadership opportunity for our Equine Science and Management students to share their stories and experiences as students at University of Kentucky. It also allows them to experience industry events and network with professionals immersed within it,” said Kirsten Wilson, academic coordinator for UK Ag Equine Programs. Twenty students were selected to participate in the pilot program. These students had diverse backgrounds and represented all years in school, traditional and non-traditional paths, a wide range of career interests, and all three emphasis areas within the Equine Science and Management undergraduate degree program. All Wildcat Wranglers attended a training session where they learned about a broad range of topics. Students practiced leadership skills, how to talk to prospective families, the admissions process at UK, as well as about UK Ag Equine Programs as a whole. Wildcat Wranglers represented UK Ag Equine Programs at the Kentucky Three Day Event as well as at the UK Ag Equine Program Equine Experience Mini Session & Farm Tours. Student who served as program ambassadors at the Kentucky Three Day event worked with faculty and staff members to provide information and share the opportunities within the Equine Science and Management degree program at a booth in the trade fair, as well as meeting with alumni, prospective families and industry leaders at the annual Alumni and Friends Tailgate on Saturday. During the Equine Experience Mini Sessions and Farm Tours, students led tours of the Gluck Equine Research Center, answered questions on a student panel and facilitated tours of the Maine Chance Equine Campus. “We had top notch students from every year within the program and they did a phenomenal job representing UK Ag Equine Programs. I look forward to launching the official program during the 2019- 2020 academic year,” said Wilson. A call for applications will go out at the beginning of the Fall semester.
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F EAT U R E STORY
Wildcat West and Wildcat Wranglers; Ag Equine Programs ups the UK fun factor at Land Rover Three Day Event By Holly Wiemers
The last weekend in April is called the #BestWeekendAllYear by many, and it’s certainly one of the special highlights for UK Ag Equine Programs each year. The program typically stays busy with a booth in the trade fair of the Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event and a tailgate put on by Equine Science and Management alumni each year. However this year, students and alumni infused the event with even more ideas and spirit, upping the Wildcat factor. Again this year, UK Ag Equine Programs featured a booth along university row at the trade fair. Here, faculty, staff and student representatives shared information with a wide variety of people who came by, including more than 30 prospective students who filled out information to learn more about becoming a future Wildcat. Additionally, the Equine Affiliated Alumni Network, the chapter of UK equine alums, planned and executed a tailgate for alumni and friends during cross country day. “Wildcat West” took home the top spot for best decorated tailgate again in 2019, earning the program bragging rights and a free spot in 2020. “What an awesome experience to work with an equine alumni committee and to see the results of their ideas and hard work. The extra bonus was winning the tailgate decorating contest for the second year in a row,” said Kristen Wilson, academic coordinator and program liaison with the equine alumni chapter. “Wildcat West was by far my favorite theme yet and the committee did a great job finding ways to incorporate activities and components to truly reach every age attending.” The program also debuted a student ambassador program called the Wildcat Wranglers (see more on page xxx of this issue) and the 2019 pilot test exceeded all expectations. The 20 student Wildcat Wranglers helped with the booth at the trade fair, the tailgate at the cross country course and the prospective student mini sessions and tours of the Gluck Equine Research Center and the Maine Chance Farm on the Friday of LRK3DE.
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F EAT U R E STORY
ESMA Spring Internship Showcase highlights intern experiences By Samantha Geller
The Equine Science and Management undergraduate program held its Spring Internship Showcase in the Seay Auditorium on April 18. The event was the culmination of students’ work during the semester. Students presented a professional poster to guests and a panel of judges. The internship is a required element of the Equine Science and Management Undergraduate Degree and an essential component to growing students as professionals. “The internship program has become more focused on the professional growth of the students as well as empowering them to showcase their critical thinking and problem solving abilities. I think this is an invaluable component to this process and one that truly allows the students to shine,” said Savannah Robin, internship coordinator for the Equine Science and Management degree program.
33 students completed an inernship this spring.
During the event, awards for Outstanding Intern, Outstanding Host Site, People’s Choice and Alumni Choice, were presented to celebrate the students’ successes. Two students tied for and were presented with the award for Outstanding Intern. They were nominated by their supervisors for exceeding their work expectations and rising to the challenge of the internship. There were many students nominated for the position, but two students stood out to the group of judges – Kayla Sheets, finance intern for the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance and Samantha Bussanich, tour guide intern for Godolphin. Cobra Farm won Outstanding Host Site. The farm was nominated by its interns Mackenzie Cooper and Sabrina Decamp, who stated that they nominated their workplace and supervisor, Mike Owens, for taking them under his wing, and showing them the business from the ground up.
Mike Owens from Cobra Farm was awarded Outstanding Host Site. He was nominated by Sabrina Decamp (L) and Mackenzie Cooper.
Casey Wallace, intern for the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, working with Emma Adam, equine outreach veterinarian, was selected by the Equine Alumni Affiliate Network for the Alumni’s Choice Award. Attendees at the Internship Showcase voted for their favorite presentation with the People’s Choice Award. This award was presented to Isabella Pisani, who interned with Alltech. “The diversity of experiences our students were able to gain over the course of the semester was something I was so happy to see. These students grew as professionals and equine industry leaders and I cannot say enough positive things about them,” Robin said.
Attendees at the Internship Showcase voted for their favorite presentation with the People’s Choice Award. This award was presented to Isabella Pisani, who interned with Alltech.
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Below are the 33 students who participated in the showcase event, along with their internship placements: • Michelle Baker, Patty Show Horses • Chloe Bellerive, Equine Medical Associates • Elizabeth Bennett, Cedar Lane Farm • Gabrielle Bissell, Makers Mark Secretariat Center • Elizabeth Boladian, Frankfort Park Farm • Samantha Bussanich, Godolphin • Mackenzie Cooper, Cobra Farm • Madison Danna, Paddlestone Equestrian Center • Sabrina DeCamp, Cobra Farm • Samantha Geller, UK Ag Equine Programs • Sarah Holladay, Olive Hill Sporthorses • Audrey Johnson, Aleseria Farm • Michaela Kemp, Brookside, Coolmore America • Rachel Kiczuk, Equestrian Events Inc. • Taylor Lahner, Park Equine Hospital • Evelyn Lancione, Miramonte Equine • Olivia Lynch, Passport Sport Horses • Channing McWilliams, Kentucky Equine Education Project • Jennifer Nunn, Walnut Hall Stock Farm • Jessie Parson, Equine Medical Associates • Kerri Peters. Gluck Equine Research Center • Isabella Pisani, Alltech • Meghan Randal, Wickliffe Pharmaceuticals • Katie Ritz, Ashford Stud, Coolmore America • Alexandria Rojo, MediVet Equine • Alexis Schwartz, Shawhan Place • Kayla Sheets. Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance • Katherine Shipp, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital • Aimee Snow, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute • Hailley Stantz, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute • Patrycja Szpyra, Pocket Aces Racing, LLC • Casey Wallace, UK Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory • Samantha Winslett, Hooves of Hope
Kayla Sheets, left, was one of two interns who tied for Outstanding Intern. She was presented the award by representatives of Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance.
Samantha Bussanich, left, was one of two interns who tied for Outstanding Intern. She was presented the award by representatives of Goldolphin.
Attending alumni at the Internship Showcase voted for their favorite presentation with the Alumni Choice Award. This award was presented to Casey Wallace, who interned with the UK Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, by the Equine Alumni Affiliate Network.
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Ag Equine Programs
College of Agriculture, Food and Environment
N212 Ag Sciences Building North Lexington, KY 40546-0091 Office: (859) 257-2226 equine@uky.edu www.uky.edu/equine