May 2020 UK Ag Equine Programs Wildcat Canter

CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S TO O U R 2020 G R A D S! MAY 2 0 2 0

C ON TE N TS

Equine Grads Honored with Senior Send Off PAGE 12

On May 8, 46 graduating seniors were honored by UK Ag Equine Programs during its first ever virtual Senior Send Off. The graduates were joined via a Zoom session by faculty, staff, alumni and administrators of UK’s Ag Equine Programs as well as several family members of the graduates.

Congratulations to our 2020 Graduates

PAGE 13 See profiles on all of our 46 graduates, learn more about what they did while at UK and what they plan for their futures. Congratulations!

Virtual Spring 2020 Internship Showcase; Outstanding Host Site and Intern Announced PAGE 27

Twenty-nine equine students presented their posters virtually in six different internship showcase sessions. We were able to explore the diversity of careers and internships within the equine industry and learn about the work they have conducted and the contributions they’ve made to their placements throughout the semester.

UK Equine Undergrads Taking Research Reins PAGE 29

University of Kentucky Equine Science and Management undergraduates are able to choose from a variety of internships to complete course credits, including positions in UK equine research. Two of the program’s undergraduates recently highlighted their internship experiences during the major’s Spring 2020 Internship Showcase event.

U PC O M IN G E V ENTS AND I MPORTAN T DEADLINES • • • •

Aug. 5, End of summer session Aug. 24, First day of fall semester classes Aug. 27, Welcome Back event, E.S. Good Barn Sept. 3, Get the Scoop Ice Cream Social, Seay Auditorium Lobby

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W E L COM E

Congratulations Class of 2020!

This is definitely not how any of us envisioned 2020 starting. There is still a lot of unknown, but you are ready. Your loved ones have laid the foundation. Your elementary, middle and high school teachers have shaped you. Your college professors have put on the finishing touches. Not to mention the countless friends you have made along the way. Now it is time for you to create the rest of your story.

When I look to the future, I often think of one of the greatest poets of the written language. Theodor Seuss Geisel. Dr. Seuss for short.

Corny? Maybe, but I think back to his book, Oh, the Places You’ll Go, for inspiration of the promise ahead. A few of my favorite quotes: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose!” and “Congratulations!

Today is your day. You’re off to great places! You’re off and away.

And will you succeed? YES! You will indeed. (98 ¾ percent guaranteed.) Kid, you’ll move mountains! So… get on your way!”

Now, the next step. Alumni. What makes a person a good alum? As newly minted alumni of our college, I highly encourage you to stay connected. Keep in touch with our faculty and staff. Let us know what you are up to. Do the thing you were told not to do as a kid.

Brag. Brag about yourself and your accomplishments! (Humbly of course.) Take advantage of the people you have met and all the resources our college and university provided. Continue to lean on them for guidance and support. We are always happy to help in any way we can.

Get involved. Volunteer your time and talents. Whether that is with the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Alumni Association or the Equine Alumni Affiliate Network. The EQAAN, an official network of the CAFE Alumni Association, is made up of not only Equine alumni, but also both UK and non-UK graduates with an equine interest. They help support the mission of the overall Association. They hold their own programming and events and often partner with Equine Programs to support its students.

Attend alumni programming. Better yet, get involved with either groups’ board of directors. Share your insight and ideas. We are always looking for new ways to reach more alumni and friends.

Take the role of alumni seriously. Be an ambassador for our institution. Talk to your family and friends about the great experiences you had as a student. Help recruit future students not only to our college, but the university as a whole. We all have memories at the University of Kentucky that will forever be etched in our memory.

Share them. Help us grow our family.

Stay social. The best way to do this is by following our social media pages. Keep informed on all that is happening in your program, in the college and at the university.

Lastly, pay it forward. Do so by any of the aforementioned. And, when you are able, give back philanthropically.

A financial gift, no matter the size, can have lasting effects. Receiving a scholarship can be one of the most rewarding gifts. Consider donating to an existing scholarship. Maybe one day, create your own.

Giving back, whether it be your time, your talent or your dollar, is one of the most rewarding feelings a person can have. Why not start today? The Office of Philanthropy & Alumni is partnering with Equine Programs for ‘$20 to Honor a 2020 Graduate.’ Your gift helps us celebrate and serve all alumni, friends and students of UK Equine Programs. Give here: https://uky.networkforgood.com/causes/6128-equine-initiative-discretionary-fund Well, what are you waiting for? Get on your way!

Jonathan L. Furnish Executive Director of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Alumni Association jonathan.furnish@uky.edu | 859-257-7211

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M A STHE A D

Wildcat Canter Editorial Staff Sabrina Jacobs, contributing writer Katelynn Krieger, contributing writer Lindsay O’Hara, contributing writer Holly Wiemers, MA, APR, senior editor, contributing writer, layout

Wildcat Canter Editorial Board

Erin DesNoyers, operations coordinator Camie Heleski, PhD, lecturer Danielle Jostes, MA, equine philanthropy director Jamie MacLeod, VMD, 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 Photo credit, cover, Catherine Primavera, photographer; student pictured Hannah Moriarty; this page: Jimmy Henning, photographer

Connect with us on Social Media

WI L DCAT CANT ER | M AY 2020 | 4

photo by Jimmy Henning

C LUBS AN D T EAM S D IR E CTORY C O L LE GIAT E P ROFESSIO NAL H ORS EMAN ’ S A S S O C IAT ION

H O R SE R ACI N G CL UB

DR E SSA G E TEAM

PO L O TEAM

Advisor: Dr. Bob Coleman, rcoleman@uky.edu and Savannah Robin, savannah.robin@uky.edu President: Anna Lowes, anna.lowes@uky.edu

Advisor: Dr. Jill Stowe, jill.stowe@uky.edu President: Katelynn Krieger, OfficialUKDressageTeam@gmail.com Facebook: UK Dressage and Eventing

E Q UE ST RIA N TEAM Advisor: Dr. Bob Coleman, rcoleman@uky.edu

H UNT SEAT TEAM

President: Caroline Molther, caroline.molther@uky.edu

Facebook: UKY Equestrian Team

W ES TERN TEAM

President: JRebecca Brown, beccabrown@uky.edu Facebook: UKY Western IHSA Team

Advisor: Dr. Laurie Lawrence, llawrenc@uky.edu Presidents: Catherine Primavera, ukhorseracingclub@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Horse Racing Club

Advisor: Dr. Roger Brown, rogerbrown@uky.edu Dr. Jamie MacLeod, jnmacleod@uky.edu President: Tommy Huber, Tommy_huber@uky.edu Facebook: U of Kentucky Polo

R O D EO TEAM

Advisor: Monty Ott, monty.ott@uky.edu President: Anna Doll, ukrodeoteam@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Rodeo Team

SAD D L E SEAT TEAM

Advisor: Dr. Mary Rossano, mary.rossano@uky.edu President: Frannie Salisbury, uksaddleseatteam@gmail.com Facebook: UKY Saddleseat Team

E V E N TING TEAM

Advisor: Dr. Jill Stowe, jill.stowe@uky.edu President: Macy Clark, macyclark23@gmail.com Facebook: UK Dressage and Eventing

WI L DCAT CANT ER | M AY 2020 | 5

F EAT U R E S TORY

Our 2020 spring semester did not end for our graduates as planned, but we are all very proud of everything they have accomplished. Thankfully, UK Ag Equine Programs and the UK Equine Alumni Affiliate Network are committed to ensuring our graduates stay connected and are able to celebrate their accomplishments for years to come. The online graduation celebration was just the start. Please see video here.

These two groups work hand-in-hand to foster professional growth by promoting activities and planning learning opportunities each year.

If you are financially able, please consider making a $20 gift to honor one of our 2020 graduates. Your gift helps us celebrate and serve all alumni, friends and students of UK Equine Programs. Give here.

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PRO GRAM UP D ATE S

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F EAT U R E S TORY

Welcome Sabrina Jacobs My name is Sabrina Jacobs. I am one of the new communications and student relations interns for the UK Ag Equine Programs! I am a rising senior at the University of Kentucky. I’m studying Equine Science and Management as well as pursuing a minor in Wildlife Biology and Management.

I currently live in Lexington, but grew up in Indiana, north of Indianapolis. I came to the University of Kentucky for its equine program and was the only kid out of my family to go out of state for school and stay there. I always thought I knew what I wanted to do, but as I’ve progressed through college, I’ve been exposed to so many new opportunities that my end game plans are ever-changing. The one thing I know for certain is that I want to make an impact.

My equine background started when I was 7 and put into a therapeutic riding program. Ever since then, I fell in love with the idea that the equine industry has so much more impact than what people give it credit for. I started riding English but have switched to western. I barrel raced for a few years but fell in love more with endurance trail riding and being out in the woods all day. I love working with horses in all aspects. Some of my favorite experiences have been through working at boarding barns, ranch facilities and commercial trail riding businesses. The equine industry has a strong hold on me.

Currently, I have two horses who are boarded in Georgetown with a good friend. Ajax is my 13-yearold Quarter Horse, and Camisado is my almost 18-year-old Mustang. Both are going strong! Other than that, I have two dogs (a German Shepherd and a Siberian Husky), a cat, a red-tailed boa and a couple of fish. I have quite the background with animals across the board, and I enjoy having them in my daily life because it gives me a routine and a set of responsibilities. It’s constantly crazy at my house with all of them, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

This summer, I’m serving as an intern in the Equine Office, but also with the Forestry Department, surveying and collecting data for a restoration of the Bluegrass project. When I’m not working with these programs, I also run a small photography business on the side and do small gigs for anyone looking for quick photos with family, friends, events and even horses! I put most of my effort into my work, regardless of what I’m doing. I’m constantly trying to learn new things and better my skillset overall, so I’m always open for new opportunities. Some other hobbies I have are woodworking, furniture reconstruction, painting, reading (I’m a HUGE Stephen King nerd), hiking and bird watching.

Beyond college, I hope to be involved in the communications side of a wildlife conservancy. I have a strong interest in avian conservation, so it would be a dream to work for the Audubon Society. Regardless of where I end up, I know that I just want to leave my footprint somewhere and help where I can. I am passionate about the protection of our lands and wildlife that inhabits them, so I plan on being an advocate for conservation as long as I can.

I am very excited for this opportunity to work with the equine department and to expand my public relations and communication skills!

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FEAT U R E STORY

Welcome Katelynn Krieger Hello, my name is Katelynn Krieger and I am a junior at the University of Kentucky. I am a new equine communications and student relations intern with UK Ag Equine Programs. I am originally from Pennsylvania and came to Kentucky to pursue a career in horses.

Although my mom has ridden horses her entire life, she and I are the only two people in our family that have any horse background. I am very fortunate to have had my mom as one of my trainers. I have been able to ride and enjoy my passion with her.

I currently live in Lexington as I pursue dual undergraduate degrees in Equine Science and Management and Animal Sciences. I plan to stay in Kentucky after I graduate and work with Thoroughbreds after their racing careers are over, helping to offer them second chances in second careers.

Since beginning my journey here at UK, I have been able to meet some of the most incredible people as well as attend some amazing events. My sophomore year, I attended Land Rover Kentucky Three Day Event and advocated for the Equine Science and Management program that I am lucky to be a part of. After I had finished my shift, I met Boyd Martin and learned how he approaches fences during the cross-country phase as I walked the course with him.

I am also a part of the UK Dressage Team. I have recently been elected president of the team and have made some incredible memories as part of the team. I’ve also been lucky enough to go abroad to Germany and the Netherlands with Resse Koffler-Standfield and Dr. Jill Stowe, meeting industry professionals in Europe and seeing a side of the industry that I was not familiar with. I would not have been able to do any of this without the amazing opportunities that the university provides students.

I am extremely excited to be part of the UK Ag Equine Programs’ team. I look forward to meeting everyone.

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F EAT U R E S TORY

Internship Goodbye from Grace Vazquez For the past year, I have been given the opportunity to work as a communications and student relations intern for UK Ag Equine Programs. This position put me in the path of amazing contributors to our industry and taught me irreplaceable lessons. Being able to work with the office to create and execute ideas has been an incredible experience that I will be forever grateful I was able to be part of.

I owe so much to this position, but most of all it gave me confidence as a rising stakeholder in the equine industry. By conversing with members of the UK faculty, as well as alumni of our program, I was able to formulate a future for myself I did not think was possible. The people I have worked with have given my ambition direction and taught me that any job is possible with hard work and a supportive network to guide you.

I do not think that I have spent the last year among coworkers, but the members of this office have become close friends and mentors. This position gave me guidance as a first generation member of our industry. The coworkers I have were there for me professionally and personally, celebrating my triumphs as well as advising and encouraging me through difficult situations. It makes my heart drop that I will not be able to work with these incredible people daily, hearing their stories and contributing to their ideas like I have for the past year. However, I truly believe it is my time to move on.

The office taught me that I had value, a lesson I did not truly learn until my talents were revealed through this occupation. The growth I have experienced throughout the last year is incredibly evident, a blessing I have come to love as well as the reason for my departure. A quote I have found during this process resonates with this sweet ending, “Growth is painful. Change is painful. But there is nothing as painful as staying somewhere you don’t belong.�

Ag Equine Programs has become my home. I was at the right place for the right amount of time, but growth has told that time to cease. I will always cherish the memories I made as well as the skills this opportunity has equipped me with. However, there comes a time when all good things come to an end.

I am excited to see where my future takes me as I embark on the adventure of a career in the industry.

I know the coworkers I have met will be there to encourage me as my undergraduate years come to an end and my professional goals continue to take shape.

Thank you to the program that helped me realize who I am and what I want professionally. I will always be a friend of the Ag Equine Programs and a helping hand whenever it is needed.

I cannot wait to continue to watch our program flourish.

Grace Vazquez

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FEAT UR E STORY

Victory Lap Goodbye from Sam Geller A year ago, I wrote my final goodbye to UK Ag Equine Programs in the April Wildcat Canter. I had wrapped up my undergraduate degree and was about to begin my master’s program in the Gatton College. In early April, I was given the opportunity to come back to Equine Programs as the communications intern once again! I jumped on it… and once again, I’m in the same spot, this time with another degree, and I think I am even more sad to be signing off.

Coming back into the office (virtually) was like returning to your childhood barn. You enter through the front doors, and everything still in its place, there might be a new face or two (the wonderful duo, Grace and Lindsay), but the heart of the mission is the same!

The projects I was able to work on got me excited for the day and helped me finish out the last month of my master’s program. I got to connect with a handful of students through Wildcat Wrangler interviews and working with Grace on our Well Wishes for Hailey project. I worked on some graphic design projects and some small projects for the virtual Senior Send Off. All of this reminded me why I moved to Lexington five years ago, why I majored in Equine Science and why I chose my career path, and ultimately my passion for the industry.

A huge thank you goes out to Kristen, Erin, Holly, Savannah and Dr. Jamie Macleod and the rest of Equine Programs for allowing me to rejoin the team and help me wrap up my time at the University of Kentucky.

Samantha Geller

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FEAT UR E STORY

Equine Grads Honored with Senior Send Off

By Kristen Wilson COVID-19 made how we could celebrate with our Equine Science and Management seniors on their big day look different this year.

On May 8, 46 graduating seniors were honored by UK Ag Equine Programs during its first ever virtual Senior Send Off. The graduates were joined via a Zoom session by faculty, staff, alumni and administrators of UK’s Ag Equine Programs as well as several family members of the graduates.

Each graduate was honored with thoughts shared by their academic advisor. Special breakout rooms were created for the newly-minted alums to visit with advisors and faculty and staff of the program following the event.

During this time of uncertainty, it was important to find a way to honor our seniors and this seemed to be the perfect way to do just that.

Having their families and friends present made it even more special for them.

A highlight video of the event can be viewed here.

Graduate profiles celebrating each of our Equine Science and Management graduates can be found on the following pages.

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Congratulations to our Spring 2020 Graduates!

Internship site: Heart of Pheonix Equine Rescue, volunteer caretaker

Megan Archambault South Point, OH

Internship site: Patty Show Horses, assistant trainer.

Favorite memory: Meeting all my amazing friends through College of Ag!

Favorite memory: Meeting my friends that will be my friends for life.

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Jackie Wahrmund, my advisor. She helped make sure my schedule was going well and always looked out for my well-being these past few years.

Plans after graduation: I’m planning on taking a gap year to get work experience and apply for vet school. I’m hoping to attend vet school at Ohio State University.

Michelle Baker

Crittenden, Kentucky Advice for current students: Always make the best of every experience and never take anything for granted!

Plans after graduation: I plan to continue working in the Thoroughbred industry and go back to grad school in the future.

Internship site: UK Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, research intern.

Internship site: Equine Medical Associates, vet and lab tech.

Chloe Bellerive

Michela Bernarding

Keedysville, Maryland

Eldersburg, Maryland

Favorite staff or faculty member: Kristen Wilson, who is the most supportive person ever. She was always there when I needed someone to talk to, when I needed life advice and even when I just needed a friend.

Plans after graduation: Heading to VA-MD College of Veterinary Medicine.

Favorite memory: My internship. I didn’t know this was a career in the industry and it really opened my eyes to numerous opportunities. I also thoroughly enjoyed working with Dr. Emma Adam. She trusted me to do my own project alongside hers. She was always willing to teach as well.

Plans after graduation: I will be applying to vet school in the Fall of 2020 for Fall 2021 admission.

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Internship site: I went abroad to Germany and the Netherlands.

Internship site: Frankfort Park Farm, both in the offics and as a groom

Favorite memory: The friends I have made.

Elizabeth Boladian Rochester, MI

Colin Caporusso

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin and Kristen Wilson. I was able to talk to both staff members about hard decisions and they have also helped me numerous times with situations. I have been able to get close to both and appreciate all they have done and taught me.

Plans after graduation: I will be working at Coolmore after graduation and applying for the Irish National Stud program.

Milford, CT

Advice for current students: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Favorite staff or faculty member: Kristen Wilson, for helping me set up my plan for graduation when I was falling behind.

Plans after graduation: Working for Leslie Howard.

Internship site: Kentuckiana Farms

Erin Clifton

Internship site: Cobra Farm, Thoroughbred breeding and reproduction.

Lexington, KY

Plans after graduation: Applied for the Kentucky Equine Management Internship for Fall 2020.

Hanna Darrow

Favorite memory: Watching a yearling I worked with at Kentuckiana break the Standardbred yearling sales record.

Dublin, OH

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Bob Coleman, who is a great advisor and, despite being a Quarter Horse guy, we talk harness racing.

Plans after graduation: Veterinary school at Purdue University!

Internship site: Will complete this summer.

Internship site: Cobra Farm.

Sabrina Decamp

Laughlin Flanagan

Bayville, NJ

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin! Her positive attitude and constant encouragement changed my entire experience at UK. Her willingness to go above and beyond for each and every student is amazing…I am forever thankful to her for all her help these past couple years.

Summerville, SC

Fun fact: Animal Welfare & Judging Team member for three years. This past year, ended up as third place high point individual.

Advice for current students: Don’t blink! Time flies by faster than you could ever imagine. Embrace the journey and breathe!

Internship site: I studied abroad.

Echo Gotsick

Advice to current students: Attend every UK event you can; four years go by really quickly, so cherish college while you can!

Acworth, Georgia Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Camie Heleski has done more for me in the past three years than she could possibly know… She was always there for me to give a guiding hand.

Plans after graduation: I will be pursuing a career in victim advocacy.

Internship site: UK Forage Extension with Krista Lea. Study abroad: Braxburn, Scotland for equine anatomy and exercise science.

Kelsey Hargadon Waddy, KY

Fun fact: Member of the UK Livestock Judging Team and Saddle Seat Team.

Internship site: I studied abroad in Germany and The Netherlands.

Internship site: Olive Hill Sporthorses, groom Favorite memory: The relationships I made with both classmates and professors.

Sarah Holladay

Darrian Hoerig

Washington D.C.

Convoy, OH Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Camie Heleski and Savannah Robin. Both have always been incredible mentors and gone out of their way to offer help in any way they can…I will forever look up to them!

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Bob Coleman always looked out for me throughout my undergraduate career.

Plans after graduation: I am currently working at Godolphin for the foaling season as well as Equibase. However, I hope to be accepting a full-time position at Godolphin soon.

Plans after graduation: I will be working at Fairbanks Riding, a hunter/ jumper show barn in Lexington.

Advice to current students: Work hard.

Internship site: Equine Programs, animal welfare research project with Dr. Camie Heleski

Internship site: Kentucky Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center.

Elizabeth Humphrey

Colleen Augusta Hosmer

Mansfield, OH

Armuchee, GA

Fun fact: Animal Welfare & Judging Team member for two years.

Favorite memory: Block and Bridle. It was the first club I joined freshmen year and it introduced me to my closest friends… I looked forward to attending Beef Expo with the club every year and wouldn’t have changed a single thing about my time with Block and Bridle.

Plans after graduation: I will be attending veterinary school at Lincoln Memorial University - College of Veterinary Medicine.

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Internship site: Any Day Now Farm and Miramonte Equine, working student.

Internship site: Atlanta Police Department in the Mounted Patrol Unit. .

Szu Yuan Ke Taipei, Taiwan

Micah Hurt Atlanta, GA

Favorite memory: Studying abroad in Thailand and Cambodia! It was very exciting going somewhere so different from home and learning to navigate on my own.

Plans after graduation: I will be pursuing a master’s degree here at UK. I will be joining the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce majoring in intelligence this fall!

Favorite memory: All the after-class talks at the equine office. Riding the bouncy horses with all my instructors at the Welcome Back BBQ. Advice for current students: It’s tough, but enjoy every moment in college. Be a sponge and suck as much knowledge as you can.

Plans for after graduation: I plan on getting OPT and stay in the U.S. to work in the sport horse industry.

Internship site: Miramonte Equine, training assistant.

Internship site: Makers Mark Secretariat Center, training and barn management intern.

Minor: Agricultural Economics

Christina Lockhart

Evelyn Lancione

Amherst, OH

Avon Lake, OH

Fun fact: I compete at Third Level and have one score remaining before I become a USDF Bronze medalist.

Favorite memory: My favorite memory is actually my first week at UK. We assembled into our K Groups and I met some of the most kind, influential and diverse people in my life… they have become my closest friends. We build so many memories!

Plans after graduation: I am currently working at Schneider’s as a merchant-in-training. I am hoping to start my own business training and selling young horses to become successful equestrian athletes…

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Study abroad: Planned to study abroad in May.

Benjamin Lynch

Nicole Love

Fallston, MD

Highland, Maryland

Fun fact: Loves singing and was a member of the UK Choristers.

Internship site: Godolphin’s Stonerside Farm in Paris, Kentucky.

I was a rotating student intern and would spend time with different positions on the farm to gain exposure to all the roles associated with operating a breeding farm.

Favorite memory: My two favorite memories would be my time serving as president of the Polo Club and completing my internship at Stonerside Farm.

Plans after graduation: I am hoping to spend some time working abroad in either the polo or Thoroughbred industries.

Internship site: Bluegrass Equine Podiatry Farrier, apprentice.

Internship site: UK Ag Equine Programs, communications and student relations intern.

Misty Medeiros

Trevor Martinelli

Meredith, NH

Sonoma, CA

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin. Not only did she do an incredible job exposing me to a wide variety of jobs within the equine market, but she took the time to introduce me to people that will help me on my career path.

She always put the students first and she did her job with a genuine joy that was a pleasure to be around. Thank you.

Plans after graduation: Continuing to work at Bluegrass Equine Podiatry.

Facvorite staff or faculty member: The most impactful equine faculty member of my college career was Dr. Amy Lawyer and being in her equine anatomy class. She was not only an amazing teacher, but also pushed me to be a better student and equine lover!

Plans after graduation: As of right now, I will continue to work at Coolmore America as a groom but am arching for jobs in the equine medical field!

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Internship site: Cloud 9 Farms, groom and rider.

Internship site: UK Animal Science Department, research intern.

Favorite memory: My fraternity experience.

Caroline Molther

Dagan Montgomery

Parker, CO

Lebanon, Kentucky

Favorite memory: Making the decision to transfer to the University of Kentucky. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made!

Plans after graduation: I plan to be riding professionally in Kentucky when I graduate, hopefully starting my professional show career in the hunter-jumper industry here in the next two years.

Favorite staff or faculty memeber: Dr. Mieke Holder helped me by discussing options for a future career.

Plans after graduation: Grad school and then work out West in ruminant nutrition.

Internship site: Maker’s Mark Secretariat Center.

Internship site: Denali Stud.

Advice for current students: Don’t be afraid to apply for internships you think you won’t get...

Kiley Moore

Sterling Moore

Claremont, CA

Georgetown, KY

Fun fact: Worked at UK’s Maine Chance Farm.

Plans after graduation: I got hired by Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in January as part of its nursing staff.

Favorite memory: Being Cowboy Up for a Cure chair on the UK Rodeo Team. I loved being part of planning and volunteering at Cowboy Up for a Cure Rodeo.

Plans after graduation: I am currently in the process of starting my own business.

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Internship site: I interned at Kentucky Equine Research (KER).

Internship site: Grovendale, LLC, barn foreman.

Favorite memory: My summer internship with KER!

Hannah Moriarty Mount Morris, NY

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Fernanda Camargo, who has high expectations for her students because she wants everyone to do their best and work hard. I appreciate her honesty and drive for her students.

Plans after graduation: Continue working with sales yearlings at Summer Wind Farm. I am seeking international experience within the Thoroughbred industry in Australia and plan to apply for the Irish National Stud Course for the upcoming 2021 cycle.

Emma Partridge Wilmore, KY

Advice for current students: College was pretty difficult and stressful for me starting out, but it got a lot easier each semester!

You learn how to time manage and find out study habits that work for you.

Plans after graduation: I am starting my master’s in equine immunology with Drs. Horohov and Page.

Internship site: Alltech, equine research intern.

Study abroad: France in 2018 with Dr. Jackie Wahrmund.

Monica Pinkerman Minneapolis, Minnesota

Plans after graduation: Attend graduate school.

Favorite memory: The Internship Showcase run by Savannah Robin.

Isabella Pisani Morristown, NJ

Advice for current students: Stay connected with your professors! They will have an impact on your future in a greater way than you can imagine.

Plans after graduation: I will be working for MediVet Biologics in Nicholasville, Kentucky, as a full-time lab technician.

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Internship site: Three Chimneys Farm, stallion marketing intern.

Internship site: Coolmore, office intern.

Katherine Ritz

Catherine Primavera

Bellville, OH

Trumbull, CT

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin. She is the most helpful and positive person I have met at UK. She is so encouraging and wants to help everyone succeed. She gives great advice and is always positive toward any situation.

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin. She is such an awesome person and role model. Mrs. Robin is always willing to talk to you about something you’re struggling with, especially in your career. She is not afraid to tell it like it is and is always pushing you to do your best.

Plans after graduation: I will be working at Margaux Farm and am planning on pursuing a master’s in digital marketing communications.

Plans after graduation: Working as a writer for the Thoroughbred Daily News! I will be working from home, but also traveling to New York and Florida.

Internship site: Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, veterinary assistant

Internship site: Three Crowns Farm, trainer.

Amber Roher Bowie, MD

Advice for current students: Do everything and anything that there is to do, either on campus or around it, because you will regret it if you don’t.

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Camie Heleski! I took all of her classes. I loved her teaching style and the knowledge she had of working with horses for so long.

Plans after graduation: To find a job here in Lexington and become a Kentucky resident.

Alexa Sciortino Glen Head, NY

Fun fact: Member of the UK Equestrian Team – Hunt Seat.

Plans after graduation: Attend UK pharmacy school.

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Internship site: Pocket Aces Racing, marketing intern.

Internship site: Maplecrest Farm Advice for current students: Make connections: you never know where that will take you!

Advice for current students: Live everyday to the fullest!...Enjoy every moment life has to offer!

Sabryn Szczpanski

Alanna Stefanek

Traverse City, MI

Baltimore, MD

Favorite staff or faculty member: Drs. Camie Heleski and Mary Rossano. Both definitely made an impact on me here at UK. Being able to be in a college where people understood your passions in the horse world and helped to support you and offer advice and tools to succeed was definitely something I kept with me.

Favorite staff or faculty member: Professor Collette Tebeau has been my most impactful equine professor. Taking her equine anatomy class taught me my interest in the way a horse’s anatomy moves and works. Her class directed me to what I want to pursue in the future.

Plans after graduation: I plan to attend the Irish National Stud Course* 2020.

Internship site: Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, patient care intern.

Internship site: Stone Farm in Thoroughbred breeding and reproduction.

Sarah Turri

Jordan Thomson

Favorite memory: Living in the Ag LLP! So many good memories from that time.

Clive, IA

Atlanta, GA

Fun fact: Enjoys photography and has a business on the side.

Advice for current students: The best is yet to come! Don’t dwell on what you have lost during this time, look forward to what the future has to offer you.

Plans after graduation: I will be the barn manager at Maplecrest Farm in Georgetown, Kentucky.

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Internship site: Kentucky Horse Park Breeds Barn, barn assistant.

Internship site: UK Veterinary Science Department, research assistant.

Favorite memory: Definitely the Dressage Team my first year.

Favorite memory: My internship experience!

Christina Westfall

Casey Wallace

Charleston, WV

Cynthiana, KY

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin - she was always willing to help and do everything she could to find the perfect position for me.

Advice for current students: We will all graduate and everything will work out!

Favorite staff or faculty member: Savannah Robin, Dr. Bob Coleman and Dr. Mary Rossano all had great impacts on me as a student.

Plans after graduation: I hope to become a barn manager or work in the equine entertainment industry!

Favorite memory: My study abroad trip to Ireland and Northern Ireland with Dr. Camie Heleski to study the Irish equine industry.

Internship site: Pine Cove Summer Camps in Westminster, South Carolina, wrangler.

Anne Wilferth

Brooke Willett

Cape Girardeau, MO

Morrisville, VT

Advice for current students: I would encourage all ESMA students to take every advantage of the resources they have at our fingertips to network‌ Plans after graduation: I was hired by Pine Cove as their head wrangler and will be training their herd of horses to carry out activities offered by the camp. I will also get to train a team of wranglers to manage the herd during the summer and help facilitate our equine program.

Favorite staff or faculty member: Ms. Savannah Robin because she was the first faculty member to introduce me to a number of opportunities within the equine industry through the different events she organized.

Plans after graduation: I will remain in Lexington and will also be getting my SCUBA certification this summer.

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Internship site: Kentucky Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, equine rehabilitation intern.

Internship site: Hooves of Hope, barn staff.

Samantha Winslett

Favorite memory: Volunteering at Forest Animal Rescue with Alternative Service Breaks..

Cleveland, OH

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Bob Coleman.

Advice for current students: Don’t be afraid to change your mind about anything if it will make you happier in the long run.

Plans after graduation: Entering the Physical Therapy Program at UK.

Riley Zimmerman Zanesville, OH

Favorite staff or faculty member: Dr. Bob Coleman. He was always incredibly helpful and supportive as a professor and my advisor.

He also introduced me to many new ideas and areas in the equine industry.

Plans after graduation: I will be working at The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio, as a barn manager and horseback guide.

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FEAT UR E STORY

UK Saddle Seat Team Named ISSRA Champs

UK is the overall Intercollegiate Saddle Seat Riding Association team champion this year.

Congratulations!

UK Alum Sam Bussanich Accepted into Godolphin Flying Start Program Equine Science and Management alum Sam Bussanich was accepted into the Godolphin Flying Start program.

According to a release announcing its newest trainees, the prestigious two-year Thoroughbred Industry Management and Leadership Program class of 2020 – 2022 includes six men and six women from Australia, France, Ireland, the UK and the USA. “This outstanding scholarship facilitates trainees to learn and experience management operations and leadership in the global Thoroughbred industry with phases in Ireland, the UK, the USA, Australia and Dubai. The course is accredited by University College Dublin Michael Smurfit Business School as a Graduate Certificate in Management. Over half of Godolphin Flying Start graduates have gone on to become managers, CEOs or business founders and they are based across five continents, working in media, racing, breeding, bloodstock, sales, consultancy, veterinary and marketing,” said the announcement.

The 2020 – 2022 trainees are: • George Broughton, UK • Samantha Bussanich, USA • Devon Dougherty, USA • Solène Hudbert, France • Thomas Lyon-Smith, UK • Donncha McCarthy, Ireland • Erin McLaughlin, USA • Marine Moussa, France • Brigitte Murphy, Ireland • Tom Murphy, Ireland • Angus Robertson, Australia • David Skelly, Ireland Read more here.

UK Equine in the News UK named as one of the country’s 11 best equestrian colleges by FarmHouseTack.com. See the story here.

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Jill Stowe, PhD Associate professor Involvement in the industry:

Equine Programs Spotlight

Professionally, I am willing to study important questions in any segment of the equine market, but due to our location, I keep an especially close eye on Thoroughbred breeding and auction markets. Personally, I am involved primarily in dressage but also eventing to a lesser extent.

Education:

PhD in Economics at Texas A&M University; BS in Mathematics at Texas Tech University

Favorite aspect of her work:

I am inspired by the passion with which our students and my faculty and staff

History with the program:

I have been happily involved with the UK Ag Equine Programs since I started at UK in July 2008.

Advice for equine students:

Be open-minded and obtain as much experience as you can in different parts of the industry. Also, if you have the opportunity, study abroad. Being exposed to different approaches to the same problem is very educational and makes for a well-rounded individual.

Why did you choose to educate equine students?: With my academic training, I hadn’t given much thought to educating equine students until I saw the position that I now hold advertised. I am so grateful that I decided to pursue the opportunity!

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FEAT UR E STORY

Spring 2020 Internship Showcase goes Online; Outstanding Host Site and Intern Announced

By Savannah Robin This semester our internship showcase looked a lot different but it did not disappoint.

“Twenty-nine of our students presented their posters virtually in six different internship showcase sessions. We were able to explore the diversity of careers and internships within the equine industry and learn about the work they have conducted and the contributions they’ve made to their placements throughout the semester,” said Savannah Robin, internship coordinator. “We have incredible students who have been so adaptable and resilient during these challenging times. From Thoroughbred breeding farms, to veterinary assistants, to nutrition and agricultural economic research, to the entertainment industry, to podcasts, Roman Riding and everything in between, they have represented our program so well.”

The awards for Outstanding Internship Site and Outstanding Intern were announced and awarded in May. Outstanding Intern was awarded to Lauren Olsen, who interned with KR Horsemanship. Outstanding Host Site was awarded to Fred Sarver of Cornerstone Farm.

Students who completed internships this semester are listed below with the host sites they represented.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Sam Baker – Dressage Radio Show Jenna Bryant –UK Ag Economics – Dr. Stowe Erin Clifton – Cobra Farm Victor Cruz – Sienna Farm Alyssa Evans – Frankfort Park Farm Melanie Gelernter – Hooves of Hope Kelsey Harp – Frankfort Park Farm Ashlyn Justice – Lazy E Ranch Morgan Kei – Millennium Farms Amelia Lloyd - WinStar Ben Lynch – Godolphin Stonerside Dagan Montgomery – Dept of Animal Sciences – Dr. Holder Sterling Moore – Denali Stud Remy Nash – Horse Cents Mimi Richards – Hare AT IT Eventing Lindsay O'Hara – UK Ag Equine Programs Lauren Olsen – KR Horsemanship Catherine Primavera – Three Chimneys Emily Rogers – Cornerstone Farm Maggie Rumbaugh – Equine Medical Associates Alexa Sciortino – Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Brittany Sparks – Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Tatiana Sushko – Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance Sabryn Szczepanski – Pocket Aces Racing Jordan Thomson – Stone Farm Sarah Turri – Rood and Riddle Chrissy Westfall – KY Horse Park – Breeds Barn Szu Yuan Ke – Miramonte & Any Day Now Farm Riley Zimmerman - KESMARC

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FEAT U R E STORY

Spring Intern and Intern Host Site Winners Announced

By Savannah Robin Fred Sarver was named Spring 2020 Outstanding Internship Host Site.

Sarver has been a professional in the American Saddlebred Horse breeding industry for more than 35 years. He is the owner of Cornerstone Farm in Carlisle, Kentucky, and the proprietor of Sarver Equine, LLC., in Paris, Kentucky. He also serves on the college’s Equine Advisory Committee.

Sarver was nominated by equine student Emily Rogers, who worked for him as a breeding and reproduction intern.

In her nomination, Rogers wrote, “Fred has served as an internship supervisor for a number of Equine Science and Management students over the last couple of years. Fred is an outstanding mentor. He makes sure I understand what is going on and why we are doing things. He is excellent at answering my questions and clearing up any confusion I might have. I have gained so much knowledge that I will continue to keep with me moving forward in my equine professional career.”

Lauren Olsen was named Spring 2020 Outstanding Intern. Olsen interned at KR Horsemanship as a training assistant. During her internFred Sarver ship, she assisted in training, management and even gained skills in Roman Riding. She was also asked to attend an event her supervisor was performing in and was able to warm up horses before the performance.

Her supervisor, Karla Switzer, praised Olsen’s tenacity, work ethic and honesty.

“The amount of growth witnessed during this internship has been extremely high,” Switzer said. “Lauren has faced many challenges and risen above each and every one of them. It was pleasant to be around someone so willing to work and learn and I cannot imagine anyone else more deserving.”

Lauren Olsen

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FEAT U R E STORY

UK Equine Undergrads Taking Research Reins

By Lindsay O’Hara University of Kentucky Equine Science and Management undergraduates are able to choose from a variety of internships to complete course credits, including positions in UK equine research. Two of the program’s undergraduates recently highlighted their internship experiences during the major’s Spring 2020 Internship Showcase event.

Jenna Bryant, a junior in the program, and Dagan Montgomery, who just graduated with his degree, chose to do their internships in equine-related research.

Bryant worked under Jill Stowe, associate professor in UK’s Department of Agricultural Economics, analyzing Thoroughbred yearling sales in United States markets.

Montgomery worked under Ashley Fowler and Mieke Holder, both researchers in the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, seeking to measure how different supplements in horse feed affected forage plant growth.

Both sought to improve an industry they are passionate about.

Bryant’s responsibilities were to uncover as much data as she could find in the realm of yearling sales and economic indicators, going as far back as 1936. She then compiled that data into a usable format for analyzing.

Bryant recalled spending a lot of time in the Keeneland Library. Through this research, she was published in an academic journal with Stowe on their findings, a study that analyzed profitability of yearling sales based on seven stud fee categories. Her passion from this project came from her experience in the breeding, buying and selling aspects of the industry.

“I know all too well how hit or miss this market is, which is why I jumped at the chance to understand the economics of it,” Bryant said.

Her advice to other undergraduate students seeking a career in research? “Ask your favorite professors if they have anything going on, or if they’ve heard of any professors in the department looking for help,” she said. “It’s a great way to get some credit hours out of the way, while also giving you a chance to present what you’ve accomplished.”

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is having the opportunity to advise and mentor undergraduate students who are passionate about pursuing research. Initially, I teach them a few tools they might learn as a grad student and then let them get their hands dirty,” Stowe said. “What I typically find is that this introduction sparks a new level of intellectual curiosity, and they start thinking about new research questions and how these tools might be used to answer them. This is very exciting to me. I also enjoy these opportunities because I think they help students appreciate the scientific process and to continue developing their ability to think

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F EAT U R E S TORY

Continued from page 29

more critically about problems and solutions.”

The Effects of Mineral Supplements in Equine Diet on Composted Manure and Plant Growth Dagan Montgomery Department of Animal Science University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY

Description of Responsibilities and Activities

Abstract

Evaluation of EQM Courses

My internship was under Dr. Ashley Fowler and Dr. Mieke Holder, helping prepare for and collect data in a research study investigating the effect of mineral supplements in horse diets on how well forage plants grow in those animals’ composted manure.

My responsibilities included the preparation of measured compost samples for each test. This was done by combining the composted manure collected from different animals fed different diets into carefully measured sources, with four samples for each diet, including a control group of just water. I then counted and prepared the fescue seeds to be used and planted them within the samples. These samples were watered and kept at a consistent lighting and temperature. Every three days all germinated grasses were counted for each sample, and roughly every five days the total height of each plant was measured. All data, including exact temperature, amount of water given and plat information was carefully recorded and placed into a spreadsheet.

By spreading composted manure such as was used in the study, farmers could potentially help fertilize their existing forage.

This study was intended to test whether or not mineral supplementation in horse diet affected the efficacy of composted manure on the growth of forage species. The idea was that if different horses were fed a different consistent mineral supplement in their diet, their manure, once composted as would be done on farm, would differ in how well the plants were promoted to grow based on the different minerals present due to that which passes through the horses GI tract. In other words, what the horses do not absorb of mineral supplements they consume would be passed into the manure. This, once composted and applied to grass seeds as soil, would determine to what degree the different mineral supplements effected growth and germination. This study and its results will hopefully be useful as a tool to help horse farms determine what forms of mineral supplements are most likely to pass into the soil, as well as how much these leached minerals will improve or impair grass to proliferate. I was able to prepare and carry out this experiment with the help of Dr. Holder and Dr. Fowler in the Department of Animals Science nutrition lab, including the preparation of samples, the planting and the monitoring and upkeep of plant growth.

How height was determined and differentiated between the plants within the different samples.

Several courses at UK were very helpful to my overall understanding of the topic I was assisting to study: • ASC 378-Animal Nutrition- This course helped my understanding of basic nutritional needs, as well as potential hazards with over feeding such as mineral toxicity • ASC 389- Equine Nutrition- Dr. Lawrence’s course informed me of equine specific nutritional factors, including how mineral toxicity can effect horses • CHE 230-Organic Chemistry- This course helped me understand basic chemistry concepts • ASC 325-Animal Physiology- Dr. Urschel’s course assisted with a basic understanding of the digestive anatomy of herbivores and how excess minerals in a diet can be passed through the GI tract

Professional Growth Outcomes

Issue Analysis

Gain thorough understanding of the project and its requirements I was able to quickly grasp all of the reasoning behind the aspects if this research with the help of Dr.

The compost samples, arranged strategically under lighting and watered, awaiting germination

Holder and Dr. Fowler’s explanation.

Write a detailed paper including abstract and findings Throughout the last few weeks of the semester I have been working with Dr. Holder to put together a well written publication that details the expectations and outcomes of this project, along with the basis of how

Professional Growth Goals •

data was collected Successfully determine which trial seems to actually have an effect on the growth of the plants

Quickly gain thorough understanding of the project and its requirements within the

There was a clear indication that the inorganic and organic supplements greatly increased plant growth as

first week of the internship

was revealed in the data

Took notes during the first few days of being acclimated to the laboratory and asked questions

Further my understanding of nutrient flow by reading sources outside of my own work

regarding the specifics of the practices. Never assume to know how something is done without

By reading several peer reviewed sources, I was able to better grasp the specific biological factors that

verifying

effect the flow of nutrients through the horse’s GI tract and out into the environment

• By the end of the semester, write a detailed paper outlining the goals and hypothesis of

Be able to successfully explain all data and reasoning to the general public at the end of the project

the project

in a concise yet clear manner

After gathering all thoughts and notes on the study, I drafted a version of the paper, complete with

I hope with this poster along with the accompanying paper to have been able to organize results into a

abstract, discussion, results and conclusion for review by Dr. Holder

• Using data, successfully determine which trial seems to actually have an effect on the growth of the plants by the end of the semester or completion of the study After taking carefully recorded data and observations, I will be able to determine exactly which trials, if any, actually impacted the growth and germination rates of these fescue plants • Further my understanding of nutrient flow by reading sources outside of my own work from other schools and researchers within the first month of the study I researched several similar studies and read the abstracts and conclusions published by several other Universities as well as other journal publications having to do with nutrient flow in equine diets

• Be able to successfully explain all data and reasoning to the general public at the end of the project in a concise yet clear manner that helps educate them as to the findings of the project

The samples and fescue plants within them under the growth lamps in the laboratory after three weeks

My research seeks to see how mineral supplements in horse feeding programs affect nutrient leaching from feces. We discussed how this nutrient leaching is a by-product of mineral supplements passing through the horse without being absorbed. Many supplement companies market their products by making them seem necessary for a horse to be healthy, and pandering to people who few horses as pets or children rather than livestock. This leads to many horse receiving far more minerals in their diets than they actually need to be eating. At best this causes a waste of nutrients that cost money and can possibly be pollutants. At worst these can be toxic to the horse and harm the surrounding environments. I hope to analyze how impactful this problem is, particularly in Kentucky, and develop a possible solution. I believe education would be the best way to improve this. This is the leading reason behind my research with Dr. Holder. We were attempting to determine the rate at which mineral supplements seem to effect plant growth. We hope to further this research and potentially prepare publications that can be used as extension education to show farmers how supplements do in fact pass through the horse, as well as the potential effects on plant life in the pasture. I chose this issue as it does apply to my research, and has always been something I was curious about anyway.

coherent work that can be easily understood by anyone with a basic understanding of the scientific method using simple language paired with easy to follow graphs and data

Acknowledgements Dr. Mieke Holder- My internship supervisor and mentor who was gracious enough to give me a position in

As she begins her senior year this fall, Bryant plans to continue with Stowe and tackle other interesting projects that have been on the back burner.

Montgomery’s research was related to equine nutrition and the results of horse feed supplements on composted manure. His responsibilities involved preparing manure samples from horses fed mineral supplements in specific groups and organizing strategically seeded fescue. He also recorded plant growth and counted germination rates of each study group every two days.

her lab and helped me understand any material pertinent to the study, as well as helped me with my personal career goals Dr. Ashley Fowler- Dr. Holder’s post-doctoral researcher who allowed me to be part of her own research

When asked about the project, Montgomery said, “It was intended to gain a better understanding of how common equine mineral supplements impact the growth of forages in the field so that horse operations will know whether or not their compost piles will be beneficial to their pastures based on their horse’s diet.”

I prepared a project poster that describes the goals and findings as well as reviewed all researched material and data

and helped me throughout the process by explaining all goals and procedures to me

According to him, the most rewarding part was watching his predictions come to fruition.

Montgomery graduated May 8 and plans to pursue graduate school after taking some time to work in the industry.

He said this project has solidified his career goals and made him confident about building a career in nutrition research.

“I do not have an undergraduate teaching component to my faculty position, so I really do enjoy having the opportunity to have undergraduates in my lab who really want to take the time to learn. I like to give them a project that they can call their own and take pride in. I wish I had such opportunities back when I was an undergraduate student,” Holder said. “In terms of furthering my research program, these projects may be small, but I find the data very useful. In some cases, it may explore the validity of concepts that I would like to pursue in the future, or provide supportive evidence for something we have been working on from a different perspective.”

Savannah Robin, internship coordinator, said the opportunities undergraduates have in research are not only important for their personal career trajectory, but also for the industry.

“One of the coolest things for me to see when our students participate in undergraduate research is the impact they see themselves having on the industry,” she said. “It’s often the first chance they’ve had to identify and try to solve a problem within this industry and that is so empowering.

“Offering undergraduates the chance to take part in research and share the results can open doors in their professional lives they never imagined possible,” she said.

The opportunities undergraduates have to participate in equine research has the potential to make a vital difference on their future career goals and on the industry. Students are able to develop critical thinking and analyzation skills they can utilize in any career they choose. UK is home to many of the leading equine researchers, and the university’s undergraduates are given a unique chance to tap into that expertise.

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UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Alumni Association welcomes new grads in unique way

By Aimee Nielsen

Graduating college amid a global pandemic is far from how 2020 spring graduates envisioned ending their time at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. Even though they won’t be taking that famous rite of passage across the Rupp Arena stage, the college’s alumni association is making sure the transition is memorable.

“Along with the Office of Philanthropy and Alumni, our association felt it was imperative to celebrate our spring graduates,” said Jonathan Furnish, executive director of the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Alumni Association. “It would have been easy to send a simple congratulatory message or a nice letter with their diploma, but we wanted them to have something really meaningful.”

Furnish worked with a college-wide team to create a celebration box for graduates. The box welcomes them into the alumni association and includes the usual new graduate information that will help them stay connected to and involved with the college. This is where tradition ends and the celebration begins. Each box contains a confetti launcher, tech tattoos for their favorite devices, a business card holder and a commemorative print that will remind graduates what the college means to them.

“We asked Kentucky artist Rachel Sinclair to represent every major from the college and fit it into the shape of the state,” Furnish said. “What she came up with is a beautiful representation of what our college offers including some familiar campus landmarks.”

Furnish and the team included a card to guide graduates online to view a congratulatory video featuring a message from Dean Nancy Cox, college alumni and familiar faculty.

“We recognize this is not the way most graduates wanted to bid farewell to their time at UK,” Furnish said. “We wanted to show them we are very proud of all they have accomplished and that we are cheering them on in their future careers and endeavors. We really hope they stay in touch and get involved in the alumni association.”

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FE AT URE STORY

May Marks the Second Issue of UK Ag Equine Programs’ New Equine Research and Outreach Newsletter

By Holly Wiemers UK Ag Equine Programs launched the inaugural issue of the Equine Science Review: highlighting research and outreach efforts at the University of Kentucky this spring. May marks its second issue.

The Review is a monthly newsletter from the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment that highlights the important equine work happening at the university. UK is home to world-class research and service excellence in equine health, safety, nutrition, pasture and forages, economics, engineering, environmental compliance and many others. Programs at UK offer the depth and breadth of scope fitting its location in the heart of horse country.

View the May 2020 issue here.

Stories from this Issue include: • UK Equestrian Athlete Initiative Launches Research Project in Response to Recent Findings About Veterinarian Mental Health • Researching the Normal to Better Predict the Abnormal; How One Researcher is Using Her Background in Reproductive Immunology to Better Understand the Leading Cause of Equine Abortion • UK Equine Undergrads Taking Research Reins • UK Researchers Address Equestrian Athlete Health and Wellness Amid COVID-19 Reentry; Jockey and Equestrian Initiative Expands to Equestrian Athlete (EqA) Initiative • Equine Innovators: COVID-19 and the Equine Economy with Dr. Jill Stowe • Taking it Online...Parasitology Grad Student Successfully Defends Her PhD Virtually to a Worldwide Audience • UK Launches New Parasitology Video Series and Takes a Journey Through a Horse’s Life • Tall Fescue Risk Measured Through Field and Manure Measurements • Plan Ahead for Equine Feed Needs, But Not Too Far Ahead Have updates delivered to your inbox each month by subscribing to the Review here.

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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