A bright future
The American Paint Horse Foundation awards 41 scholarships for the 2007–2008 academic year.
By Jessica Smith
With all the talk of champions and winners we so often hear, credit should be given to a different kind of victor—those who strive to improve their lives and pursue higher education. Through challenges that include rising tuition costs, leaving their closest pal—their American Paint Horse—and striking out on their own, these young adults will at least have some help along the way, thanks to the American Paint Horse Foundation scholarship program.
For the 2007–2008 academic year, the Foundation awarded 13 new scholarships to deserving students, and 28 existing scholarships were renewed.
The scholarship recipient selection process is challenging and students must meet specific requirements. Applicants must be APHA or AjPHA members in good standing, have at least a B average in high school and pass their college entrance exam. Three letters of recommendation must also be submitted, as well as a 500-word essay describing their educational plans and future goals.
Students applying to renew their scholarships are required to have at least a 3.0 cumulative grade-point average and must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester.
The young horsemen and -women appearing below are this year’s first-time scholarship recipients. A list of the students whose scholarships were renewed follows.
Constance Anderson, Saltsburg, Pennsylvania
As an active 4-H and AjPHA member, Constance Anderson has already
taken steps to pursue her goal of acquiring a Master’s degree in
animal bioscience. While in high school, Constance also made time for activities such as competing in AjPHA events, Paint Alternative
Competition activities and many local clubs.
“I feel that with my scientific background I will be able to improve the health of the next generations of Paint Horses,” she said. “It is a goal of mine to eliminate HYPP, genetically from the gene pool.”
Constance plans to attend Penn State University, to become a genetics researcher, focusing on equine diseases.
With her plan in motion, her objectives set and her internship in sight, Constance should have no problems achieving her goals.
Laura Akerlund, Grafton, Wisconsin
Throughout her high school career, Laura Akerlund has served on numerous committees and was active in a variety of clubs, including varsity sports, student council, Future Farmers of America (FFA) and AjPHA.
“When I began in the AjPHA I set two major goals—to win a world championship and to become the national president,” she said.
With those objectives accomplished, Laura plans to move on to new goals by using her Foundation scholarship to attend the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh to major in public relations.
“Through this association I have gotten to know countless individuals from various areas of the United States,” said Laura. “Through this blessing I have become an outgoing, friendly and enthusiastic person.
“I firmly believe that while facilitating and communicating with others, one benefits and discovers many significant aspects of life.”
Shellie Dalluge, Fallon, Nevada
As an AjPHA National Director for more than 10 years, Shellie Dalluge has already taken steps to pursue her goal of acquiring an agricultural education degree. While finishing her high school education, Shellie also made time for activities such as competing in APHA events, earning several Register of Merits (ROMs) and high-point awards and participating in 4-H and FFA activities.
“An important goal and dream of mine is to be able to inform my peers about agriculture and what it does for the world,” she said.
Shellie plans to attend California State University, Fresno, to become either an ag-science teacher or to go to work for an organization dealing with agriculture.
Caitlin Daniels, Kissimmee, Florida
Caitlin Daniels has been a leader in both her community and the Dixie Paint Horse Club. She is an AjPHA National Director and has participated in many APHA shows and events. Caitlin is also active in her local 4-H club and several high school organizations.
“Horses have been a passion of mine since the day I could sit in a saddle,” she said. “Once I am out of college I want to start a small training stable.”
While a training stable may seem far from her intended course of study—criminal justice—at Valencia Community College, Caitlin plans to always keep horses in her life.
Christen Dorsa, Brentwood, Tennessee
Through her years of involvement with Paint Horses, AjPHA, competition and membership in the Tennessee Paint Horse Club, Christen Dorsa says that her career goals has always been in focus.
“As long as I can remember, I have set goals for myself,” she said. “These goals have motivated and encouraged me to reach beyond my biggest dreams.”
Christen takes her goals seriously and has a plan of action set for her next few years, which include a degree in communications from the University of Alabama and then on to the University of Southern California to earn a PhD in broadcast journalism.
“I plan to become successful in the field of broadcast journalism,” she said. “I would like to become an ESPN news reporter and report on equestrian events.”
While Christen fulfills these goals, she plans to continue riding and showing on the highest level possible.
Danielle Escover, Hollister, California
During her high school years, Danielle Escover stayed busy with a heavy class schedule and work in volunteer programs, horse shows and awards shows, all while being an active member of the Seven Counties Paint Horse Club.
In her letter of recommendation, Danielle’s director of institutional advancement at Notre Dame High School, Corrie Cubillas, pointed out that Danielle is a diligent school leader who strives for perfection at all times.
With her self-motivation and attention to detail, Danielle should have no problem achieving her future goal of attending California State University at Fresno to become a medical examiner.
“Achieving the dream of becoming a medical examiner gives me the hope that I will have a successful career, while helping my fellow man,” said Danielle.
Maggie Griffin, The Woodlands, Texas
After graduating cum-laude in her high school senior class, Maggie Griffin plans to attend Baylor University in Waco, Texas, to study pre-law, while participating on the college’s NCAA equestrian team as a horsemanship and reining rider.
“Paint Horses have always been a part of my life and have proven to remain a permanent asset by contributing to my career choice,” said Maggie.
That career choice is to be an attorney, specializing in equine law.
With her diverse background of activities, including earning numerous APHA awards and championships, serving as an AjPHA president, being named Who’s Who in American High Schools and more, Maggie should have no problems reaching her goals.
“Since the FFA convention, I have been interested in the legal matters concerning equine activity,” said Maggie. “I believe that equine law is an ideal career choice, as it combines my enthusiasm for rigorous academics, horses and competition.”
Jessica Hagen, Bakersfield, California
Having participated in Paint Horse shows since she was 12 years old and constantly excelling in academics throughout her educational years, as well, Jessica Hagen feels that a degree in veterinary medicine would be a perfect fit for her.
“I have wanted to be a veterinarian for as long as I can remember,” said Jessica. “Due to my involvement with horses and animals my whole life, the prospect of veterinary medicine and being able to heal hurt animals has always interested me.”
No doubt that her participation in the Central California Junior Paint Horse Club, local 4-H club and APHA horse shows will help propel Jessica to her goal.
Jessica plans to attend Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas.
Anna Jackson, Morganton, North Carolina
Driven by her strong work ethic and a passion for horses, Anna Jackson has chosen to attend Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) as the first step in fulfilling her goal of becoming a horse trainer and breeder.
“I truly believe that having a passion for horses is something that is born within you,” said Anna. “Form the first time I sat in the saddle at age 5, I knew that this was something I would love to do for the rest of my life.
“As an aspiring horse trainer, I have observed the many directions that I can go into. I have chosen to be a reining and working cow horse trainer.”
Once Anna completes her degree in equine science and equine business at WPCC, she plans to pursue her dream to own and operate a training and breeding facility.
Kristin Jensen, Riverton, Utah
Kristin Jensen plans to attend the University of Utah, where her APHF scholarship will aid in her pursuit of a degree in engineering. She hopes to be able to complete her bachelor’s degree in five years, instead of six.
After Kristin competes her undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue her graduate degree, and possibly even a PhD. While obtaining her degree, Kristin plans to stay active in many organizations.
“While at the university I will join engineering organizations, such as Women in Engineering, in order to better educate myself of career opportunities,” she said.
While these may seem like lofty goals to some, according to Kristin’s advisors she should have no problem, as she is a determined person who has an enthusiastic attitude, willingness and an overall sense of responsibility.
Austin Scholl, Menoken, North Dakota
A senior at St. Anne High School, Austin Scholl plans to embark on the next part of his journey by majoring in biology and chemistry, eventually pursuing a medical degree.
“I have always wanted to pursue a profession in the health field,” said Austin. “I like to help others and feel that I could do this for the rest of my life.”
The 18-year-old already has an impressive resume of awards, club involvement and Paint Horse show honors.
Austin plans to attend Jamestown College in North Dakota.
Adriane Smith, Taylorsville, Utah
Embarking on the next part of her life’s journey, Adriane Smith plans to continue pursuing her love of horses.
“Through my AjPHA and 4-H experiences, I have become very interested in communications and have a strong desire to tie this into my love of horses,” said Adriane.
Adriane’s involvement with Paint Horses spans more than 10 years. She has remained active in the Utah Junior Paint Horse Club, has been elected AjPHA Youth Member of the Year and has served as an AjPHA National Director.
“I owe AjPHA and 4-H the credit for helping me realize my interests and strengths which led me to the exciting path I wish to follow,” she added.
Adriane plans to continue her education at California State University at Fresno.
Erica Sunnarborg, Chandler, Arizona
Already enrolled in Arizona State University’s (ASU) pre-vet program, Erica Sunnarborg is well on her way to accomplishing her goal of becoming a veterinarian. The 18-year-old is well versed in equine knowledge, as she has been a member of AjPHA and the Arizona Junior Paint Horse Club for many years. The former National Director has also accumulated various APHA points and awards astride her black overo gelding Ida Blackjack.
“Through my many experiences with horses I have learned so much about them and I am interested in learning even more,” she said. “My heart goes out to every horse that is either sick or injured, and I want to be able to help each horse in whatever way possible.”
Erica plans to complete her Bachelor’s of science degree at ASU, and then continue on to Colorado State University for veterinary school.
Brittney Taylor, Lexington, Oklahoma
Avid Paint member Brittney Taylor has big plans for her future—plans that continue to include her Paint Horses, of course. While she pursues a degree in early childhood education, she will also add a degree in equine science so that one day she will be able to combine her love for teaching and horses.
“Someday I would like to work with Paint Horse or 4-H youth, and maybe coach a horse judging team,” said Brittney. “I have gained so much from people that were willing to work with our Paint Horse and 4-H clubs that I want to be able to pass some of my knowledge on to other youngsters.”
This shouldn’t be any problem for the 19-year-old, as she has accrued a wealth of equine knowledge through her years of participation in APHA shows and clubs.
Brittney plans to pursue her degrees at the Southern Nazarene University in Oklahoma.
Scholarship Renewals
The following students had their $1,000 scholarships renewed for the 2007–2008 academic year.
• Rachel Baum
University of Illinois
Illinois Paint Horse Club Scholarship Number 2
• Tyler Chavez
Washington State University
Zone 1 Endowment Number 1
• Amanda Haynes
Southern Arkansas University
Dr. Bill Jackson Memorial Scholarship
• Allison Meadows
Truman State University
California Paint Racing Endowment
• Stephanie Rew
Pepperdine University
Zone 3 Endowment Number 3
• Megan Ryden
Texas A&M University
Utah Paint Horse Club Scholarship Number 1
• Marissa Titlow
University of Nevada, Reno
Keith Lamoine Memorial Scholarship
• Jayme Vondenhuevel
Ohio State University
Arizona Paint Horse Club Scholarship Number 4
• Elizabeth Akerlund
University of Wisconsin
Hoch Endowment
• Sarah Ashcraft
University of Georgia
Matt Diamond Memorial Scholarship
• Ashley Guerriero
University of Puget Sound
Duane Pettibone Memorial Scholarship
• Kate Gunderson
South Dakota State University
Idaho Paint Horse Club Scholarship
• Laura Merriman
Illinois State University
Dr. & Mrs. Lyle Wonderlich Scholarship
• Jacob Ruder
University of Illinois
APHA Endowment
• Amanda Ryan
Texas A&M University
Central California Paint Horse Club Scholarship
• Kassi Venturacci
University of Nevada–Las Vegas
Nevada Paint Horse Club Scholarship
• Amanda Ware
Oregon State University
SW Washington Paint Horse Club Scholarship
• Laramie Weimer
Sul Ross State university
Zone 1 Endowment Number 3
• Christine Weiser
University of Colorado
Utah Paint Horse Club Scholarship Number 2
• Caroline Brown
Lousiana State University
Ark-La-Tex Paint Horse Club Scholarship
• Brandy Ferber
University of Washington
Washington State Paint Horse Club Scholarship
• Christie Hammel
Winona State University
Lee Newsome Scholarship
• Katie Judd
Butler County Community College
Zone 3 Endowment Number 2
• Kristi Ruby
University of Nevada, Reno
Lynn Simons Memorial Scholarship Number 1
• Cristin Thayer
University of Nevada, Reno
Robert and Mary Parrott Scholarship
• Breanna Thompson
University of Idaho
Zone 1 Endowment Number 2
• Lori Yankosky
Arizona Western College
Arizona Paint Horse Club Scholarship Number 5