DAPHNE COOPER: Scholarship Allows Student to Loosen the Reins

BY BRANDEN FERGUSON

Daphne Cooper’s passion for horses started at a young age. “I grew up that horse-crazy kid,” she admitted. “Then in 5th grade, my mom bought a pair of horses hoping to get my older sister, who is autistic, into equine therapy to help. That just fueled my obsession, and I’ve been around horses ever since.”

Daphne is a senior at the University of Findlay and looking to complete her majors in both equine business management and western equestrian studies with a training emphasis. A recipient of the Western Equestrian Operating Scholarship, Daphne was able to put all her focus into her hands-on learning and academics, instead of worrying about finances. “When I found out that I was being awarded a scholarship, I was elated. I was completely shocked! I was so very thankful that someone was donating their own money to help further my education even though they’ve never met me,” Daphne said.

Out of the gates, she got involved in the University’s equine programs. “For my first two years, I was part of a riding team, and I enjoyed every bit of it. I then switched over to the ranch horse team where I learned a ton.” In her senior year, Daphne now spends most of her time on the Western farm, where she interns and helps the management team to care for the horses. “I’m learning how to do more vet-based care such as vaccinations and medications,” she said.

Like many students, Daphne chose UF not only for the top-notch program, but because it also reminded her of home with its close-knit community. What she didn’t expect was just how much support and love she would receive. “My father was in a motorcycle accident, and it wasn’t feasible for me to send Tikki, my 9-year-old gypsy vanner horse, back home. The University and my professors worked with me, and I was able to keep her on campus,” she said. “I had people checking on me and making sure I was ok. It was something I never expected. It was like having a second family here at UF.”

Daphne hopes to one day be the owner and operator of a boarding and training stable. “Back home we have 80 acres that I’ve been given free rein to do whatever I would like with, and I would like to host reining events and continue my passion with horses.” Once her career grows, she hopes to take it one step further. “I want to do what these donors have done for so many countless students. It’s inspiring. I too want to give back to my community!”

After graduation, Daphne plans to head back home to Havelock, N.C., but already knows she’s going to miss her alma mater. “I’m going to miss the amazing people, the professors, the wonderful facilities, and the top-notch horses that the University has for students to work with,” she said. “I’ll be back, and maybe one day I’ll be able to give back as well.”