Ciaramella Awarded Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant

Lexington, Ky.—Dec.11, 2024—The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is pleased to announce Lana Ciaramella as the recipient of the 2024 Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant, which supports the furtherance of equestrian education. Ciaramella was announced as this year's recipient at the 2024 USHJA Annual Meeting on Tuesday, December 10. 

"I am truly honored to be awarded this year’s Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant," said Ciaramella. "Naomi’s unwavering dedication to education and the equine industry was an inspiration to myself, as well as countless others. As a lifelong learner, I am humbled to have the opportunity to pursue training to give back to the equine community through the USHJA in her memory."

Ciaramella, of Dobbs Ferry, New York, is the Director of Operations at Metropolitan Equestrian, where she works with youth members of her community to broaden their equine learning opportunities. A co-founder of the American University Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association team and an IHSA alumna, she also contributes to the sport as the Hunt Seat Zone 2 Administrator for the Interscholastic Equestrian Association.

Drawing on a legal background and a passion for rules and their interpretation, Ciaramella is committed to supporting and enhancing the equestrian competition community. Her short-term goals include earning her steward’s license, with the grant funds supporting her travel and educational expenses as she works toward this milestone.

Created in partnership with the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association, The Professional Horsemen's Association of America, and Interscholastic Equestrian Association in honor of the late Blumenthal, the Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant awards $2,000 to at least one member per year. The grant can be used in any of the following areas:

  • Hunter/Jumper Licensed Officials Education as a judge, course designer or steward
  • USHJA Instructor Credential
  • Individually identified educational opportunities designed to advance professional equestrian-related business and horsemanship knowledge

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

Photo: Courtesy of Lana Ciaramella