LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I enjoyed seeing many of you, both in person and virtually, at the 2022 USPC Convention in Norfolk Virginia. A special thank you to the Old Dominion Region for hosting, and to the extraordinary regional volunteers who worked so hard to bring this year’s convention to fruition. This year’s convention offered a new hybrid format, blending in-person, livestream, and on-demand opportunities, including more than 60 workshops and seminars, plus meetings and awards presentations. By adopting a hybrid approach, Pony Club was able to offer attendees an opportunity to participate from wherever they were, either in person or online. The flexibility and convenience this offers has been well-received and will be a format we plan to continue to adopt. There was much to take in at this year’s convention and I tried my best to do just that, take it all in! For me, one of the most rewarding and enjoyable aspects of every convention is the recognition of the outstanding volunteers and alumni who have given so much to Pony Club over the years, and this year was no exception. Each year, the USPC Academy of Achievement recognizes Pony Club alumni for being outstanding in their chosen fields of expertise. The honorees attend the National Youth Congress (NYC) where they participate in group discussions and activities with NYC delegates to share career stories, advice, and help the delegates as they focus on personal development. I really enjoyed meeting 19 very impressive delegates from the NYC 2022 class and felt honored to meet this year’s Academy of Achievement inductees, Sally Ike and Carol Kozlowski. A highlight of Saturday’s banquet was the celebration and honoring of two individuals who have made significant contributions to the Pony Club at the local, regional, and national levels over time. The 2021 USPC Founders Award recognized two outstanding volunteers for their service and dedication to Pony Club, Darlene Connors, and Kim Lowman Vollmer. It was wonderful to join everyone in celebrating and recognizing these two incredible and inspiring volunteers. Also, at the banquet, Pony Club welcomed newly elected USPC President Jennifer Sweet and outgoing USPC President Ben Duke presented the inaugural President’s Recognition Award. The award was presented to Gegi Winslett in gratitude for her commitment to Pony Club and all the knowledge and wisdom she has contributed to the organization and its members and volunteers over the years. It was such a special moment and a fitting recognition. Gegi was one of the first people to extend a warm welcome to me when I joined Pony Club as its Executive Director and has since served as a role model and inspiration to me, and to so many others. Looking past convention, I’m pleased to share the Pony Club will be hosting our 2022 USPC Championships East and West at two top-notch facilities. The USPC Championships West is heading to Twin Rivers Ranch in Paso Robles, CA, July 1-8, 2022. The USPC Championships East will be returning to the Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) in Mill Spring, NC, July 27-31, 2022. I hope to see you there! I hope you enjoy this issue of Discover USPC and the recap of 2022 USPC Convention, as well as news and features from throughout the Pony Club community. Cheers,
Teresa
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DISCOVER USPC
Spring 2022
