College of Business
                                                                                                                                                                                   University of Louisville
                                                                                                                                                                                   Louisville, KY 40292
                                                                                                                                                                                   502.852.7617
                                                                                                                                                                                   Fax: 502.852.7672

May 2006
Graduates in Equine Business
Class of 2006

Dear Sir or Madam:

The Equine Industry Program faculty are proud to introduce our graduates from the class of 2006. Listed below are brief profiles and expected graduation dates for each of our degree candidates with links to resumes. The AACSB International-accredited College of Business at the University of Louisville, home of the Equine Industry Program, while one of fewer than 300 fully accredited business schools in North America for entrepreneurship, has consistently been ranked among the top ten.  

Our graduates are valued associates in an array of equine enterprises, such as the California Thoroughbred Breeders Association, Florida Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association, Bloodstock Research Information Services, Inc., The Jockey Club, Equibase Company, Churchill Downs, Lone Star Park, Monmouth Park, Indiana Downs, Bradley Thoroughbred Brokerage, International Racehorse Transport, TVG, Crestwood Farm, Lane’s End Farm, Mill Ridge Farm, U.S. Equestrian Federation, the Kentucky Horse Park, and the World Equestrian Games. They hold positions in many areas, including marketing, simulcasting, research, sales, computer software development, and administration. 

The requirements of the University of Louisville’s Equine Industry Program are rigorous. The students completing our degree must complete the business core, giving them a strong foundation in accounting, computer systems, economics, finance, management, marketing, oral and written communication, along with the equine industry.  

If your organization currently has or anticipates future openings, please feel free to contact our office for additional information, or to arrange an interview with these graduates who may be of interest to you. Visit our website to view the resumes of individual graduates, http://cbpa.louisville.edu/eip/ and click on graduates.

We look forward to the opportunity of placing an industrious and enthusiastic Equine Business professional with your organization. 

Respectfully,

Terri Burch
Programs Coordinator  

Amanda Anderson
Graduates May 2006 

I am very excited to begin a new career in the equine industry! Prior to pursuing a Certificate in Equine Business from U of L, I earned a dual Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Economics from Bellarmine University and then went on to earn a MBA with an emphasis on international business from the University of Kentucky. My education has prepared me for the global marketplace through two study abroad opportunities and classes on foreign relations and diplomacy. My eight years of corporate experience in the insurance industry, where I honed my skills in marketing, customer service, sales, and financial services, will be an asset to your company. As a volunteer for non-profit organizations, I gained experience in planning and organizing fundraising events. In addition, I have great attention to detail and excellent oral and written communication skills. My experience in the equine industry includes volunteering for KEEP, owning a Thoroughbred, and assisting in planning and organizing the annual Ranch Horse Classics horse show. My computer skills include Windows NT and XP, the Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Outlook, Mainframe Applications, the Internet, and Visio (graphics software). My goal is to find a full-time position with an equine-related organization where my strengths and experience will positively impact the company's growth and international reputation.

Amelia Baldree
Graduates December 2006 

My love for Thoroughbred racing began when I read the Thoroughbred series by Joanna Campbell as teenager.  After high school, enrolling in University of Louisville's Equine Industry Program was my next logical choice.  I graduate this December with a BSBA in Equine Business and a minor in Communication.  During my tenure I have worked at the Kentucky Derby Museum, on the backside of Churchill Downs for trainers Steve Margolis and Patrick Byrne, for Churchill Downs in Group Sales and Simulcast Productions, and in publicity for Turfway Park and River Downs.  Most recently I have worked in the racing offices of Ellis Park, Keeneland, and Churchill Downs. In addition, I have extensive computer skills on both Windows XP (including Office 2000) and Mac OS X.  I have also been involved in the creation of the web site, TurfAngels.com.  I consider my key accomplishment at UofL to be founding the Thoroughbred Racing Club, of which I am still President, and doing an independent study project on the history of synthetic racing surfaces and polytrack.  I possess a strong work ethic and the ambition to be a key player in the future of Thoroughbred racing.

Jessaca Beard
Graduates August 2006 

Although I don’t come from a family with a background in horses, my passion for them has inspired me to learn everything I can about them. I entered the Equine Business Program at the University of Louisville in hopes of turning my passion into a rewarding and successful career. My Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Equine Business coupled with my love for horses and eagerness to learn makes me a strong candidate for a number of positions in the equine world. I have experience in animal science from my employment at a veterinary office and I have proficient office skills from my employment with the City of Lebanon. I also interned at Churchill Downs gaining incite into the corporate world of the equine business. I have a strong work ethic, good written and verbal communication skills, and the flexibility to deal with any situation that may arise.

Sarah Bullock
Graduates August 2006 

As a native of Mississippi, I grew up with a love of horses.  At home, I learned firsthand about several genres of the horse industry such as barrel racing, hunter/jumper, and Parelli Natural Horsemanship.  I came to Kentucky to learn about the Thoroughbred Racing Industry and pursue a degree in Equine Business.  Since moving to Kentucky, I have worked as an exercise rider at Churchill Downs, Trackside Training Center, and Highpointe Training Facility.  I also served as president of the University of Louisville Polo Club, worked as veterinary assistant during the 2005 breeding season at Hermitage Farm, and worked for Hartland Farm for the 2004 September Yearling Sales at Keeneland.  My long-term goal is to attend veterinary school and specialize in equine sports medicine.  Until then, I plan to use the skills with horses and my knowledge of business to work in the equine industry.  I will be a strong asset to your company.

Kristine Kohnhorst
Graduates December 2006 

As I graduate from the University of Louisville, my goal is to use my knowledge, experience, and passion for the Thoroughbred industry to obtain a position with a dynamic equine company. The experiences I have had with racing allow me to offer a unique and well-rounded contribution to any organization.  Having a trainer as a father has helped me gain experience in many areas of racing. Additionally, I have worked for Churchill Downs Simulcast Network (CDSN) as an intern focusing on internet operations and web content and am currently employed with Lavin Insurance Company learning the equine insurance business. My major in Equine Business and Marketing Minor coupled with my industry experience will allow me to make immediate contributions to my employer. My computer skills include MS Office, TAM, HTML, SPSS, and Internet.

Amy Linton
Graduates May 2006 

I hold a special place in my heart for horses. From the first moment when I saw my first racehorse at age two, I knew that I wanted to be around them.  This led me to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Equine Management from Midway College.  While there I learned in-depth hands-on and book studying approach to every facet of the horse industry, whether it is training, riding, breeding, or law.  While there I worked at Hurstland Farm and perfected my skills working with mares, prepping weanlings, teaching yearlings ground manners, helping with the foaling process, and the teasing of mares.  I came to the college with experience in riding and showing Hunter Jumper and Eventing, but came out even more schooled with the riding courses at the college.  After graduating I worked at Moserwood Farm helping to break yearlings, tease mares, work with foals at the mares side, breeding horses, checking mares to see if they were in foal, and with the paperwork that is needed to keep a farm running.  I have also volunteered at Exceptional Equestrian with special needs children.  From working here I learned that there are also business skills needed to succeed in the industry.  So, I decided to attend the University of Louisville’s Certificate Program for the Equine Business Industry.  With these classes I would learn the accounting skills, financial skills, computer skills, and an overall economic sense for the industry.  Because of these classes I am now comfortable using Microsoft Access, Excel, and SPSS.

Lara K. Malone
Graduates May 2006 

I will earn my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Equine Business and a minor in Marketing in May 2006.  My passion for horses has kept me riding and working with them for sixteen years; I am a C-3 graduate of the United States Pony Club, and an active competitor in eventing.  I am currently embracing the challenge of establishing new connections with veterinarians by telephone to build new business in three states for an equine pharmaceutical company.  My career objective includes sales, marketing, and public relations for the equine industry, but I am open to new opportunities that will benefit from my confidence, motivation, and ability to learn quickly. 

Melissa Pylant
Graduates December 2006 

For as long as I can remember I have had a passion and love for horses.  My experience is in the show horse industry, mainly in three day eventing.  I have also worked for renowned trainers Nina Bonnie and Susan Harris.  My degree from the University of Louisville as well as my strong computer skills and working experience with top trainers will help me carry that love for horses into numerous positions in the show horse industry.  I have been a groom, owner, competitor and trainer and I hope to continue with that in the future.

Jeannie Putney
Graduates May 2006

After graduating from the University of Maine in 1996 with a B.A. in journalism and a concentration in public relations, I spent a little over eight years in marketing communications for a variety of industries.  As much as I loved my career, I knew something was missing – a true passion for my work.  Animals, especially horses, have been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember, so getting my Certificate in Equine Business was a logical next step to gaining more horse knowledge, as well as making some vital industry contacts.  While in school, I was fortunate enough to work for Churchill Downs, as well as a local tack shop.  It all paid off this semester when I received and accepted a job offer from the United States Equestrian Federation® for the position of National Marketing Manager and will be working on the World Equestrian Games that come to Kentucky in 2010. 

Adam Roberts
Graduates May 2006 

I am a very driven and motivated person who loves the horse industry.  The majority of my horse related activities revolved around training and showing Quarter Horses and doing farrier work.  I began working as a farrier when I was in high school and have learned many important skills for working with horses.  My primary job that I have held during college is a maintenance technician for the Allen & O’Hara Properties.  While working for them, I have acquired a universal HVAC technician certification as well as skills in carpentry, plumbing, and electrical.  I feel as though my bachelor degree in Equine Business has prepared me to enter the business world bringing fresh ideas and modern skills.  I have experience using Microsoft Office, SPSS, and HTML. 

Angela Stange
Graduates December 2006

Horses have been my passion for many years, and all of my college education is based around the horse. I am a graduate of SUNY Cobleskill with an Associate’s Degree in Thoroughbred Management, which gave me hands on training with Thoroughbreds and other breeds. My B.S. in Equine Business from Salem International University, and my graduation with a Certificate in Equine Business from the University of Louisville this fall, have prepared me for work in a business setting. I am proficient in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, with some knowledge in Access and html. Also I adapt quickly to new surroundings and programs. With my education and personal background in horses I know I will be a valuable asset to your company.

Amy Summers
Graduates May 2006

My passion for horses began at an early age.  My great-grandfather was a Standardbred trainer, and my grandfather and uncle were both in the Thoroughbred breeding business.  I involved myself with horses anyway possible when I was young.  Later, I was recruited to play softball at the University of Louisville where I had the fortune of being a part of the Equine Business program.  In my four years here, I have taken advantage of some amazing opportunities including a summer working in the yearling division at Three Chimneys Farm, one of the most well known Thoroughbred breeding farms in Kentucky.  Last summer I fulfilled a dream by working on a cattle ranch in west Texas where I roped, branded, moved and doctored cattle, and broke horses.  My experiences have been wonderful and will prove to be invaluable as I pursue a career in the equine industry. 

William Lee Wahl
Graduates May 2006

To be a graduate of the University of Louisville’s Equine Industry program at this specific time, going into the business world, is a very exciting proposition for anyone.  I am proud of the knowledge and skills that I have obtained through my professors, as well as through personal independent research.  Being connected to the industry for the past several years by attending sales, working at a local training center, caring for broodmares, and watching these amazing animals compete, has provided me with the enthusiasm to improve on what my predecessors have done to make the industry what it is today.  While working for a local training center, I’ve learned proper track maintenance, machine and property upkeep, as well as dealing with customers and clients.  My adept and varied knowledge of business, computers, and the necessary social skills required in today’s marketplace will help me in my quest to improve the industry’s current status.

T. Ashley Walker
Graduates May 2006

The Equine Industry Program combined with my work experience has no doubt prepared me for the unique opportunities and challenges one encounters in the Thoroughbred industry. Added to the education I received at U of L, my current employment with an international simulcast provider has allowed me to apply what I have learned in the program, while simultaneously developing a more global view of the business. I have extensive experience with MS Office, HTML, web page development, and Macintosh OSX applications.

UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE GRADUATES IN EQUINE BUSINESS
CLASS OF 2006   

Class 2004
Class 2003
Class 2001-2002