Candidate Statements

Candidate for President – 1 Candidate Statement

Julie Alonzo
Region 1, Oregon

My involvement with Working Equitation:
I’ve been actively involved in WE since 2010. Currently, I’m the USAWE Secretary. Prior
to my appointment, I was active in the development of USAWE and prior WE
organizations. I founded and lead Working Equitation Oregon, a USAWE Affiliate
Organization. I have helped organize and lead five WE Judge Seminars in the United
States and two intensive educational events for judges, competitors, trainers, and
instructors in Portugal. I am an active member of both the USAWE Awards and
Competitions committees. I was appointed Chef d’Equipe for the first USAWE Team to
compete at a WAWE World Championship. I have helped organize many USAWE
licensed competitions and clinics across the country (e.g., Oregon, Illinois, California,
Wisconsin, Washington, Montana, Florida, Nebraska, Texas, and Michigan). I also
compete regularly. In 2026, I competed at L1, L2, and L5.

My relevant professional/work experience:
I am a Teaching Professor and run the doctoral program in Educational Leadership at
the University of Oregon. This job includes managing a team of faculty members and
staff; teaching graduate-level courses in writing, research design, and introductory
statistics; and all aspects of program development. I bring a variety of analytic,
computer, and people skills that can contribute to the ongoing growth of USAWE.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position:
I’m honored that 4 people from across the U.S. nominated me for positions on the
USAWE Executive Committee. In deciding to accept the nomination for President, I am
motivated by the hope that my focus on community, experience leading large non-
profits, and relationships within the WE community, both domestic and international, will
be of service. Although I have very much enjoyed serving as Secretary, I believe it is time
that someone else have the opportunity to grow into that role. I’ve never served as
USAWE President, but I am confident that I can lead the organization with a focus on all
regions and competition levels.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected:
I appreciate the challenges USAWE faces and am eager to lead the Board, our
committee members, and the membership at large in a concerted effort to sustainably
grow the sport and our organization. I am eager to help other regions experience the
positive growth that I’ve helped R1 and R5 enjoy.

The wonderfully supportive WE community didn’t just happen on its own. It has been
carefully nurtured by people who share an appreciation for good sportsmanship, a
commitment to developing horsemanship, and a determination to make the sport truly
special. Finding ways to nurture this essential part of the sport is one of my passions.
As President, I hope to work collaboratively with all members of the Board and our
dedicated Committee volunteers to ensure that Working Equitation and USAWE remain
supportive, positive, and welcoming to beginning riders, experienced horse people new
to the sport, and those honing their skill to compete internationally.

At-Large Director-2   – 4 Candidate Statements

Holly Linz
Region 6, Maryland
My involvement with Working Equitation:
Began formally in 2015, by organizing and attending some of the first working
equitation clinics and shows hosted in Region 6. I have served on the boards of two
different groups, ERAHC and as a founding member of Working Equitation East, in
organizing successful WE shows and clinics in regions 6 and 7. I have been an
instrumental committee member in hosting the previous 5 Eastern Zone Championship
Shows, as well as supporting multiple AOs get started and launch schooling shows and clinics in their areas.

My relevant professional/work experience:
Include being a USAWE Professional Instructor since 2022, as a trainer, coach and
clinician. I have taken horses and students from L1 to L6 to championships each year
USAWE has had them, introduced hundreds of new participants to the sport, and
continue to inspire and support existing, successful riders through the levels. Running
my own training and boarding business for over 20 years has lent me a good
understanding of what it takes to thrive in the equine industry under modern socio
economic pressures. I am also the founding chair of USAWE Education committee and
work well in board and committee settings. I am successful at bridging gaps across
USAWE committees and facilitating coordination in the best interests of membership.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position:
Because I am deeply connected to the base membership of USAWE, and am widely
known as a trusted resource for members to confide in and seek guidance from. I have
no issue putting the needs of others in the community above my own. My extensive
experience in the sport since the formation of the organization enables me to
understand the dynamics between existing and potential new members, the pursuits of
the organization, and I can help bridge any gaps in understanding between them.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected:
Is to fairly represent our diverse member base’s needs and concerns to the BOD with a
broader reach and scope. I plan to expand my current efforts in assisting members and
AOs with demonstrations, trade fairs and expos, and in finding more ways to expose
USAWE to potential new members. I plan to help Regional Directors support their AO’s
growth in each region’s membership and ability to create more educational opportunities for all levels of competitors, and mentor more qualified volunteers to
assist our national organization. I intend to fairly represent the needs of our
foundational members just as well as our International hopefuls throughout strategic
planning sessions with other Directors and in committee working session meetings to
guide the organization’s growth.

—–

Kiki Pantaze
Region 4, Texas
My involvement with Working Equitation:
My name is Kiki Pantaze, and I would be honored to have your vote for USAWE Director
At Large 2.

I live in Texas and I am currently serving my sixth year as the Region 4 Director. It has
been a privilege to serve our members, watch Region 4 grow, and help people become
involved in Working Equitation. As more members step forward to take on regional
leadership, I feel this is the right time for me to bring my experience to the Board as a
Director At Large and focus on serving all of our members and the future of USAWE.
A Director At Large has the opportunity to look beyond one region and consider the
needs, ideas, and concerns of the membership as a whole. That is the role I would like
to embrace. I want to be a voice that listens, encourages open communication, brings
different perspectives to the Board, and helps find practical solutions that benefit our
organization and its members.

My relevant professional/work experience:

I bring 15 years of board and volunteer leadership experience from the American
Polocrosse Association, where I served as Vice President, Regional Director, and Board
Member At Large. I also served as an International Team Committee Chair,
Newsletter/Magazine Chair, International Team member and coach, and helped develop
programs including the organization’s horse welfare policy. Those experiences taught
me the importance of collaboration, responsible leadership, and keeping members at
the heart of an organization’s decisions.
I have been involved in Working Equitation since 2013. I served as the Region 4 Director
for WE United and was part of the merger process that helped create USA Working
Equitation. Since USAWE was formed, I have served on and chaired numerous
committees and task forces.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position:
Just as importantly, I understand USAWE from the perspective of a member. I began
Working Equitation as a new rider and have progressed to competing at the Masters
level while pursuing the opportunity to represent the United States on the first-ever WE
Team USA. I understand the questions and challenges that come with being new to the
sport, as well as the goals and dedication of riders who want to continue progressing.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected:
As a Director At Large, I want to help ensure that USAWE remains approachable,
responsive, and welcoming to members at every level, from all areas of the country. I
want to help strengthen communication between the Board and membership, support
the continued growth of our sport, and contribute ideas while also being willing to listen and learn.
I am not ready to stop serving USAWE. I love this sport, care deeply about our
organization, and believe my experience can continue to be useful to our members.
I would be honored to serve as your Director At Large 2 and to help guide USAWE into
its next chapter. I respectfully ask for your vote and the opportunity to continue serving
you and the USAWE membership.

——

Erica Peet
Region 5, Illinois

My involvement with Working Equitation:
I am honored to submit my candidacy for the USAWE At-Large Director 2 position. My
background as a coach, competitor, licensed official, and former board officer equips
me with the experience and insight necessary to serve our community effectively.
Working Equitation is not just a discipline I participate in—it is a central focus of my
professional life. Over the past decade, I have engaged with the sport in many aspects:
• Trainer & Educator: Alongside my husband Howard at Peet Equestrian, I focus on
developing well-rounded horses and riders, emphasizing horsemanship, and education.
Together we have also dedicated our expertise to the growth of Working Equitation
inside our region and other states across the nation.
• Competitor & Rider: I have trained, shown, and earned regional championship
titles across multiple levels. I have competed up to Intermediate B, and am improving
my skills to advance up to Advanced level and eventually Masters level.
• Licensed Judge: I have years of active judging since 2018 and currently hold
USAWE “R”; Licensed Judge status. This position affords me the opportunity to learn
about the status of different regions, the growth of participation, and a gage to the level
of understanding that the riders encompass.

My relevant professional/work experience:
My dedication to breed and sport governance is rooted in my years of service within
national equine organizations:
• International Andalusian and Lusitano Horse Association (IALHA) Board of
Directors: Served as Region 3 Director, and Vice President on the executive committee,
working to maintain fiscal responsibility, enhance member communication, promote
education, and guide growth.
• IALHA Magazine Committee Chairperson: Led the publication committee
responsible for producing the IALHA's official magazine, The Iberian Horse, overseeing
content curation, editorial standards, and member outreach to celebrate breed
achievements.
• USEF / IALHA Rules Committee: Served as a committee member responsible for
evaluating, drafting, and refining affiliate competition rules, ensuring clarity, fairness, alignment with national governing standards, and the safety and welfare of horse and
rider.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position:
This combined governance background gives me a deep, practical understanding of the
collaborative effort needed to lead a national equestrian organization, committee
coordination, and rulemaking processes.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected:
1. Inclusive Community Engagement: Ensuring every member from every
region—from Introductory level amateurs to Masters riders—feels supported, valued,
and heard.
2. Supporting Organizational Growth: Expanding support to the current clinics,
licensed shows, and judge-education opportunities across all regions that are available
to our members.
3. Education and Marketing of the Sport: Continue the efforts of spreading the word
about Working Equitation to outsiders, to draw increased participation
and growth of the sport as a whole.
As our discipline grows, maintaining a strong, inclusive, member-focused, transparent
organization is essential.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and shared passion for Working Equitation. I
look forward to the opportunity to serve the USAWE community as your At-Large
Director.

——

Chris Stanko
Region 3 Colorado

My involvement with Working Equitation:
My involvement with Working Equitation has been extensive. I serve as a TD and a PI,
and I am a past Region 3 Director and past President. Additionally, I was involved in the
merger and the creation of USAWE.

My relevant professional/work experience:
I have been involved in the horse industry my entire life, with around 50 years of training
and teaching experience. I was also instrumental in the development of HCWE in
Colorado in 2014.

Why do I think I am a good candidate for the position:
For the last few years, I had to step back to care for my husband. I am now fully ready to
re-engage and contribute more deeply to the organization.

What do I hope to accomplish during the term if elected:
If elected, I hope to collaborate across all regions and committees to bring our
community together and work effectively as a unified team.

Region 2 Director – 1 Candidate Statement

Jack Burns
Region 2, California
My involvement with Working Equitation:
I’m Jack Burns, a professional trainer and working equitation competitor based in
Northern California. I’m running for USAWE Region 2 director. My platform has four
priorities: expand access to education, support competitions in more locations,
communicate clearly with members, and introduce more riders to WE. Together these
mean more ways riders get introduced to WE, more reasons to stay involved, and more
room to grow.

My relevant professional/work experience:
I operate J-Dot Stables where my daily work involves training horses, teaching riders,
and developing practical approaches to classical dressage and Working Equitation. As
a working professional I understand the commitment involved in training and competing
including the challenges of finding suitable instruction and events within reach.

Why do I think I am a good candidate for the position:
Region 2 is large, and access to clinics and shows varies widely. I want to hear where
opportunities can be developed and work with affiliate organizations, trainers, and event
organizers to help bring them within reach of more members. New riders should find a
welcoming first experience and a clear next step. Established riders should have
opportunities to keep learning and competing. Region 2 was well represented on the first USAWE team at the World Championships
with 2 riders. Their achievement is an inspiration and a sign of what our sport is becoming. As we welcome new members, we can also develop the education and competitive experience that help riders pursue ambitious goals.

What do I hope to accomplish during the term if elected:
Looking forward into 2027, I will continue to train with Gilberto Filipe in Portugal and
bring that learning home to my work with horses and riders. As director, I will share
useful educational ideas, collaborate with the people already building the sport across
Region 2, and bring members’ needs to the USAWE board. I look forward to
communicating with members about opportunities, decisions, and progress.
I appreciate your vote and the opportunity to serve Region 2.

Region 4 Director – 2 Candidate Statements

Elliot Holtzman
Region 4, Texas
My involvement with Working Equitation:
My wife Caitie and I own and operate Versatile Horsemanship LLC. As professional
trainers, We show, coach, and train in various disciplines. The last two years have
hosted Working Equitation Clinicians, such as Doreen Atkinson and Jill Barron, and at
least 6 Licensed WE Shows that have helped grow membership in Region 4 by bringing
new riders.

My relevant professional/work experience:
Elliot is currently on the board of directors for another equine association— the
International Liberty Horse Association. He is a Senior Judge and the Association’s
Judges Coordinator.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position:
With the knowledge of being on another board, being an active member that is in the
show pen, coaching customers, training horses, and hosting shows; Elliot has a unique
perspective to be able to represent Region 4 and help the association grow while
encouraging the fun, horsemanship, and education for its members.

——

Pati Pierucci
Region 4, Texas
My involvement with Working Equitation:
My name is Pati Pierucci, and I am seeking the opportunity to serve as a USAWE
Region 4 Director.
I have been actively involved in Working Equitation for the past five years and have
worked to help grow the sport by introducing and bringing a large number of my clients
into Working Equitation. Through my involvement as both a competitor and instructor, I have encouraged participation, helped riders develop their skills, and supported greater awareness and understanding of the sport.

My relevant professional/work experience:
As a Masters-level competitor with extensive experience in Dressage and Working
Equitation, including international competition, I have a strong understanding of the dedication, preparation, and commitment required to compete and progress within the
sport. I recently returned from Jerez, Spain, as the first alternate for the first U.S.
Working Equitation team competing at the World Championships. Currently I am
training several young horses towards the Masters level.

Why I think I am a good candidate for this position:
In addition to competing, I have focused on teaching, coaching, clinics, and educational
opportunities that help riders understand the principles of Working Equitation and
develop their skills. I believe continued education and communication are important to
the growth of the sport, individual riders, and the organization as a whole.

What I hope to accomplish during my term of service if elected:
As a Region 4 Director, a primary focus will be to continue strengthening
communication among members and encouraging greater involvement within the
organization. This includes creating an environment where members feel comfortable
asking questions, sharing ideas, and becoming more involved in the sport and its
activities. Providing the required monthly newsletter will also be an important part of
maintaining consistent communication and keeping members informed.
I will also work to be a strong resource for the Executive Committee and to support the
organization’s goals and initiatives. Increasing membership and encouraging existing
members to become more active participants in USAWE would be an ongoing priority.

My goal is to contribute experience, communication, and a strong commitment to the continued growth and development of Working Equitation and its members in Region 4.