Farm Workers' Educational Fund Awards 15 Scholarships

Fifteen children of full-time horse farm workers are pursuing higher education this year with the assistance of the Horse Farm Workers' Educational Assistance Fund. To date, 722 annual scholarships totaling $1,595,044 have been awarded since the Fund's inception. 

Scholarships are awarded for education or skill training after high school and are based upon financial need, merit, biographical essays, and personal interviews. Scholarships are also available for full-time horse farm workers in central Kentucky who wish to take equine-related training or courses to help them be more knowledgeable and effective while working with Thoroughbred horses. 

Four recipients also distinguish themselves as Pollard Scholars at the University of Kentucky: Sarah Farrell, Lupe Macias, Jesus Perez, and Miguel Macias. 

  

Scholars And Schools: 

Riley Alexander - Eastern KY U.                              OliviaBryant - U. of Kentucky         

Caleb Carr - Transylvania U.                                    Jacob Compton - U. of Kentucky                           

Sarah Farrell - U. of Kentucky                                  Tania Godina - Bluegrass Community and Technical College

Jayden Hamilton - Midway U.                                   Lupe Macias - U. of Kentucky         

Miguel Macias - U. of Kentucky                                Anna Martinez - Transylvania  U. 

Flora Martinez - Northern KY U.                               Karina Meza - U. of Kentucky 

Richard Osborn - Bellarmine U.                               Jesus Perez- U. of Kentucky 

Caleb Reams - Asbury U.      



Farms represented by scholars: 

Qualifying parents of scholars are employed full-time by one of the following central Kentucky Thoroughbred farms: 

Airdrie Stud, Ashview Farm, Godolphin USA (5), Hermitage, Rosemont Farm, Rose Hill Farm,  Seclusive Farm, Spendthrift Farm, Walmac Farm, Water Cress Farm, and Westbrook  Stables. 

Quotes and Program Details: 

The Fund was founded in 1996 by Rob Whiteley of Liberation Farm, Tom Evans of Trackside Farm, and Fred Seitz of Brookdale Farm.

Message from Tom Evans, President: 

"In pursuit of their dreams, many of our scholars work 20 or more hours per week at one or two jobs while carrying a full course load. Our main goal is to award enough money so that they can focus on their studies and make school their number one priority without incurring a huge burden of long-term student loan debt.

"Investing in these young people is also an investment in the industry. Many of our scholars after successfully completing their studies have returned to pursue careers in the Thoroughbred industry. Several have already distinguished themselves (including a Director of Racing at a major North American track). Many who have chosen careers outside the industry have made their mark as professionals in nursing, education, social work, theology, and business.

"The Fund is run on a volunteer basis and over 95%of donor monies flow through to scholarship recipients. We are grateful for all contributors who have so generously supported and valued this remarkable group of young scholars. Over the years, we have received significant contributions from the Carl Pollard Foundation, Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Managers Club, Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders, Hilary Boone Foundation, KTA, Fasig-Tipton,  Keeneland, Darley and Godolphin, Hill 'n' Dale Farm, Thoroughbred Charities of America, William Marquard, W.T. Young,  Race for Education, the Crafty Prospector syndicate, donors in memory of Gus Koch, and many other individual donors." 

According to co-founder, Whiteley: 

"These scholars and parents are an industry treasure. Farm workers are the backbone of the breeding industry and therefore the foundation of the entire Thoroughbred industry. The parents of these scholars have instilled an incredible work ethic in their children. Year after year, these outstanding young people impress the Board with their ability, motivation, energy, enthusiasm, and accomplishments. In many instances, our scholars are the first in their families to pursue secondary education; and some could not pursue education without our financial assistance." 

Board members include: President Tom Evans of Trackside Farm; Vice-President Dan Pride of Godolphin; Secretary Judge Wilson of Berea College; Treasurer Mary Ryan, educator and horsewoman; Rob Whiteley of Liberation Farm; Stu Pollard, educator, and filmmaker; and Chet Blackey, DVM. Carl Pollard is an active advisor to the Board. Muffy Stuart serves as coordinator of the Fund and provides personal communication, guidance, and support to the scholars throughout the year. 

Donation And Applications:  

The Fund is a 501c3 organization, and tax-deductible contributions may be made through its website at www.horsefarmworkerseducationfund.com. Checks can be sent to HFWEAF, 2938 Four Pines Drive, Lexington, KY 40502.

Applications are available in March with a July 1 deadline, followed by personal interviews with the Board. Inquiries may be made to 859-269-1719. Additional information and a brief video are available on the website.