Outstanding leaders are more than the backbone of the youth horse industry—they are the heroes. Every year the American Youth Horse Council recognizes dedicated leaders from the previous year by spotlighting their accomplishments during the annual AYHC Symposium.
The Adult and Student Leaders of the Year represent the best in adult and peer-to-peer leadership: They introduce newcomers to the horse industry, mentor young horsemen, promote the horse industry within their local communities or across the nation, and accomplish their goals in fun and innovative ways. As AYHC executive director Jill Montgomery says, “Mentoring is very important to the growth of youth, and a great attribute to keep horse clubs vibrant and kids engaged.” According to Montgomery, any AYHC member whose leadership and commitment have made a positive impact on the youth horse industry should be considered as a candidate.

Also at the annual Symposium, the AYHC Partnership award is given to an organization which exemplifies dedication to the youth horse industry and supports the American Youth Horse Council’s mission to “connect kids through horses.”

These are nationally recognized awards. The Student Leader award winner receives a $500 scholarship from the AYHC. Other prizes vary from year to year, and all winners are acknowledged in AYHC publications and at the awards banquet.

So… who is your hero? Make sure he or she (or an organization) receives well-deserved kudos from the American Youth Horse Council. The nomination period is until November 15, 2011, and nomination guidelines for all three award categories are available through the AYHC office. Candidates must be individual AYHC members or be part of an AYHC group or organization membership.

The AYHC Symposium will be held March 23-25, 2012 at the Hilton Washington-Dulles in Herndon, Virginia. Symposium participants enjoy two days of unparalleled seminars, demonstrations, and tours, plus networking with like-minded members of the youth horse community. The Symposium fees are reasonable, and early birds and AYHC members enjoy discounts on registration and hotel rooms.

The American Youth Horse Council is a network of academic, breed, industry and other representatives interested in facilitating the flow of horse-related educational resources for youth. The AYHC mission is to provide encouragement, communication, leadership & resources to serve and promote the youth horse industry. Learn more at www.AYHC.com.  

For more information, nomination guidelines, symposium details and registration forms, please contact the American Youth Horse Council at [email protected] or (719) 547-7677.