Candidate Statements

Region 5: Regional Director

Sara Barnwell – Michigan

My involvement with Working Equitation: I became interested in WE because of the amazing people and the friendly, inclusive community. This is my sixth year competing across Region 5. This is my eighth year of involvement which includes being on two championship show committees, mentoring youth riders, and volunteering at licensed shows, clinics, expos, and schooling shows throughout Region 5 and beyond. If you see me at WE activities, you will probably find me cheering for and encouraging every rider (I try to tell everyone to “have fun” when they head into each phase of the competition), answering questions, and helping out wherever I can. I enjoy helping to set courses and often volunteer doing course reset and speed timing. My favorite WE accomplishments have been winning sportsmanship awards at shows and getting a “Working Equitation Top Cheerleader” shirt from my trainer (matching one of our fabulous Michigan youth riders who was given the same shirt).

My relevant professional/work experience: I have extensive leadership and business experience. My educational background includes an MBA in Management and PhD in Learning Design and Technology. I have worked in higher education since 2006 and currently work at Michigan State University. I have extensive nonprofit experience with Rotary International at a local and district level. I have been on several nonprofit boards, including start-ups, and have held treasurer and finance board positions.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position: I am proud of what I have accomplished during my first term as a Regional Director. In addition to continuing to volunteer around the region, connecting competitors with events, and promoting all of the amazing things happening in Region 5, I am actively involved in many Board projects. I led the development of USAWE’s first strategic plan which included creating and implementing a comprehensive member survey, then analyzing and publishing the results. I am also on a newly created Education Committee which is focused on participants in Levels 1 – 5.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected: My focus is to continue to represent the interests of the membership in Region 5. I want to work hard with my fellow board members to ensure that our organization is strong, transparent, and efficient. This includes continuing the strategic planning effort, ensuring we have effective and fair processes in place, and that USAWE is focused on the best interests of the membership – both building and supporting the base of youth and amateur riders and taking Working Equitation to the next level in the US by increasing international involvement. I am prepared, as a board member, to work hard with my colleagues to ensure USAWE is an exceptional organization. I look forward to meeting more USAWE members in R5 (and beyond) and appreciate the opportunities to collaborate with all of you in the future! Thank you, Region 5 and USAWE! WE Strong, WE Fun, WE Ride!

AT Large Director 1

Amy Star – Arizona

My name is Amy Star, I live in Tucson, AZ which is part of USAWE Region 2. I have been involved with working equitation for over 15 years. I love the sport and the community of riders and horsemen. I think that Working Equitation is really good for people and for horses. I want to see it grow into a healthy and vigorous horse sport in the USA. I hope to support the growth of education and clubs within the sport of Working Equitation. I have a background in education and will continue to support and offer education related to riders, trainers and licensed officials.

Region 1: Regional Director

Chesna Klimek – Washington

My involvement with Working Equitation: Like so many, I was introduced to WE by Julie Alonzo. She inspired me and my Haflinger Pippin to dive in and compete at National Championships in 2015. Since then, I’ve been involved with WE on-and-off as a competitor, volunteer, instructor, fan, and promoter–performing in WE demonstrations from local clubs to BreyerFest. As a trainer/instructor, I routinely welcome new horses and riders to the sport–encouraging others to join USAWE, participate in shows and programs, and chase their goals. I also volunteer at shows, participate in ongoing WE training, and have served on Committees for earlier WE organizations (helping develop rules and programs like Leaderboard/Rider Awards). I’m honored to accept this nomination from current R1 Director, Sara Mackenzie–many thanks for her dedicated service!

My relevant professional/work experience: In addition to training horses and teaching in Thurston County, WA, I work in communication and operations for online organizations, currently facilitating education programs for therapists. I have extensive experience with project management, building and growing online communities, developing strategic partnerships, communicating effectively between stakeholders at different levels, and coordinating content and media initiatives (including media for horse shows and equestrian publications).

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position: I love how WE tests and celebrates the partnership between horse and rider, and love helping others learn, grow, and achieve within the sport. For me, the best part of WE is our supportive community. Having competed successfully in other disciplines (dressage, eventing, Extreme Cowboy Race, etc.), I know working equitation is unique… We cater to all levels, embrace horses and riders from diverse backgrounds drawing on their strengths, and promote positive horsemanship. If you come to a WE event, you’ll see riders of all ages and abilities, representing a wide range of traditions, partnered with any breed of horse, everyone cheering for each other–WE welcomes all! I’d be excited to use my communication and community-building skills to help USAWE connect, elevate our R1 members, and expand to new audiences.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected: If elected, I will:
– Inform R1 members about opportunities and achievements and highlight USAWE programs on a regular basis
– Help our amazing R1 Affiliate Organizations and show organizers with media coverage and competitor/volunteer/sponsorship recruitment
– Expand USAWE’s presence online and in media, sharing inspiring stories from our region (ex: Masters-level riders striving to compete on the international stage, Century Rides, growing youth involvement, people with disabilities succeeding in our sport, wild horse to WE horse transformations, and so much more!)
– Attract and encourage new members and recruit current R1 members into positions or programs within USAWE
– Get to know more R1 members and seek out feedback. How can we help our region grow forward?

There’s never been a more exciting time to be a part of WE in our region! Thank you for your consideration.

Region 3: Regional Director

Cindi Harris – Kansas

My name is Cyndi Harris. I live in Kansas, Region 3. I compete in WE, currently at Level 4. I have been training and teaching for over 45 years. I love the sport of WE as it helps to develop horse and rider to achieve a great partnership. I am currently serving as a BOD for WEKS. I hope that serving as Reg 3 Director, I can grow the sport in our area.