Applications Open for Alvin Topping Governance Grant and Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant

Lexington, Ky.—Sept. 6, 2024—The USHJA is pleased to announce that applications are open for the Alvin Topping Governance Grant and the Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant. Awarded annually, both grants award funding to members to assist in furthering their equestrian experience. 

The Alvin Topping Governance Grant will award $500 to one USHJA member 25 years old or younger to assist them with attending the USHJA Annual Meeting or US Equestrian Annual Meeting. An anonymous donor established the $500 grant to honor Topping’s work in equestrian sport governance, including his commitment to the establishment and success of USHJA. To be eligible for the grant, applicants must be an active USHJA member in good standing, 25 years of age or under, and demonstrate financial need. Applications for the Alvin Topping Governance Grant close October 12.

"The Alvin Topping Governance Grant allowed me to travel to Denver, Colorado, for the USHJA Annual Meeting, where I was able to learn more about the behind-the-scenes work that goes into the day-to-day of equestrian sport," said 2019 recipient Annie Birmingham. "I was thrilled to take this knowledge back to our local affiliate organization, the Long Island Professional Horsemen’s Association, where I serve as the secretary and advisor to the junior committee. I am endlessly grateful to the USHJA Foundation for their continued support and commitment to education and growth within the industry."

The Naomi Blumenthal Training Grant was created in partnership with the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association, Interscholastic Equestrian Association, and The Professional Horsemen's Association of America. In honor of Blumenthal's passion for the sport and sharing of knowledge, the grant awards $2,000 to at least one USHJA, IHSA, IEA, or PHA member per year. The grant is intended to be used for educational opportunities designed to advance professional equestrian-related business and horsemanship knowledge, including becoming a Hunter/Jumper Licensed Official as a judge, course designer or steward; completing the USHJA Instructor Credential; or other educational opportunities. Applications for the Naomi Blumenthal Training Grant close October 15.

For more information about the Alvin Topping Governance Grant, visit ushja.org/alvintoppinggrant. For more information about the Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant, visit ushja.org/blumenthalgrant.