Participating Member (PM) Delegates are elected every year in June by the PMs in their region, and once elected represent the interests of those PMs. The number of PM Delegates each region can elect and how many votes each of those delegates carries is determined by a region’s size. In addition to voting on various governance matters, PM Delegates elect their respective region’s Regional Director, and vote with the rest of the BOG for the Officer and At-Large Director positions. PM Delegates communicate with their respective Regional Director regarding needs and issues that arise from the general membership.
Nominees have now accepted their nominations, so we’ve put together a list of the 2024 nominees for each region so you can make an informed decision when voting opens on June 1, 2024. You can vote for your delegates by logging in to the USDF website between June 1 and June 30.
Region 1
Adele Cohn
My name is Adele Cohn. I was a GMO delegate for Maryland Dressage Association from 2019-2022. I was a PM delegate for Region 1 in 2023 and look forward to the opportunity to again be a PM delegate. It has given me the ability to expand my knowledge of the USDF mission.
Debbie DelGiorno
Debbie, a PM delegate for the past 15 years, is primarily focused on promoting our sport to youth and supporting youth development programs. In addition to being the FEI youth coordinator and NAYC chef d’ equipe for 11 years, Debbie has been involved with Lendon’s Youth Dressage Festival for 18 years.
Jill Ekis
Jill has served as a PM Delegate the last two years and is in her second year on the Adult Programs Committee. She is working on her requirements to become a TD and has volunteered at numerous dressage competitions. She is also an adult amateur rider working toward her two final bronze scores.
Michelle King
Michelle is an AA and “R” TD. She has officiated throughout the country and at the US Dressage Finals, serves on the USDF’s TD Committee and the USEF Rules Advisory Working Group, and is chair of the USDF Rules Group. She has been a VADA/Nova Board member since 2004 and currently is VADA president.
Janine Malone
Janine Malone is a USEF “R” Dressage judge, “R” DSHB judge, “R” DTD and FEI Level 3 Steward. She was Region 1 Director (1996-2001), USDF Secretary (11 years), and a USEF Vice-President. She received the first “ABIG/USDF Volunteer of the Year” award in 1998. the USDF Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the USDF Hall of Fame in 2022. She is a past NCDCTA president and is currently on the USDF Sport Horse and Bylaws Committees and was organizing committee chairman and manager for the US Dressage Finals. She is current vice-chairman of the USDF Regional Championships Committee, has served on the USDF Rules Advisory Working Group (RAWG) and is currently on several USEF committees. Janine manages dressage competitions in NC.
Marley McCourt
My name is Marley McCourt and I am a 16-year old dressage rider. I have spent the past ten years volunteering, competing, and riding. I have attended the USDF Annual Convention in 2022 and 2023 on the youth scholarship. I am also a representative for USDF on the USEF Youth Committee.
Sabrina Wetzel
As a 14 year member of the Lehigh Valley Dressage Association, I have served on committees, volunteered at events and was a member at large. I enjoy supporting the sport of dressage and have gotten to know many USDF members over the years from various conventions, competitions, and educational events.
Paige Zimmerman
I was a PM delegate last year and would love to do it again! I am a graduate of Lehigh University, the marketing board chair for ESDCTA, working student for Olivia Steidle, intern at The Distinguished Rider, and active competitor (Regionals, US Dressage Finals, CBLM Championships, Dressage at Devon, etc.).
Region 2
Amanda Braun
Amanda is an active adult amateur member that has competed extensively from Training Level through PSG. She has been involved in various educational opportunities offered by USDF and is passionate about the continuation of dressage through platforms that encourage juniors, young riders, and amateurs to participate within the organization.
Jenny Carol
My name is Jenny Carol. I am the Founder and President of The National Dressage Pony Cup (NPDC). Through the programs that the NDPC offers, I work to promote ponies and small horses in dressage competition throughout the United States and Canada. I am not a member of a GMO, but an independent show organizer.
Anna Cluxton
I am an adult amateur competing at Second Level on a non-traditional horse. I have served as a GMO Board Member, VP, and Marketing Chair. I am currently the Region 2 webmistress and Education Chair. I have been a PM delegate for Region 2 for several years and enjoy the challenge of representing and looking at the “big picture” versus just my own opinions.
Deborah Garris
Debbie has been active in the dressage community since 2000. She is president of Horse Show Solutions, Inc., a competition management company and is an accountant as well. Debbie is a member of the USDF Awards Committee and has served in previous years as a USDF PM Delegate.
Lisa Gorretta
I have served as a PM delegate many years between Executive Board roles. GMO leadership experience. Bronze and silver medalist with experience in many USDF programs. Past chair of the USDF Regional Championships Committee and immediate past USDF President. Currently represent USDF on the USEF Dressage Sport Committee and International Disciplines Council. TD and FEI Steward. Involved in the education of licensed officials.
Kathryn Grisolia
I have worked in the horse industry for close to 50 years. Dressage show secretary/manager for over 30 years. Volunteer coordinator for the US Dressage Finals.
Luann Grover
I have been involved with dressage as either a competitor or owner for the past 25 years. I currently serve my GMO as a board member. By volunteering at our GMOs Level 3 show, I have become a Level competition manager and two years ago received my TD license.
Catherine Jacob
USDF bronze, silver, and gold medalist. Bronze and silver freestyle bars. L graduate, adult amateur, member and volunteer for local GMOs and held offices over the years. Schooling show secretary. USDF PM and have attended BOG since 2001. Creator of the USDF Region 2 Schooling Show Yearly Awards Program. USDF Region 2 Treasurer since 2001.
Emma Kane
Emma Kane-Mikan is the current IDCTA VP of Dressage and has been a PM Delegate for five years. She was the 2018 USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year and has been riding most of her life, finding her way into dressage about eleven years ago. Emma has a bachelor’s and master’s degree and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. Emma is currently a Clinical Mental Health Counselor in private practice.
Reese Koffler-Stanfield
Reese Koffler-Stanfield is a Diamond Award Medalist, USDF FEI B Certified Instructor, Co-host of the Dressage Radio Show the official Podcast of USDF, Part Time Professor at the University of Kentucky , Owner and Head Trainer at Maplecrest Farm in Georgetown KY.
Ken Levy
Ken is a United States Equestrian Federation “R” dressage judge, a USDF certified instructor, and a USEF silver para dressage coach. Ken served nine years as the USDF Region 2 Director. He is a past GMO president and Indiana Dressage Society’s current vice president and chairs the Education Committee.
Susan Posner
Started riding in Germany at age 8. Earned German Bronze riding medal at age 12. Trained three homebred Trakehner mares to Grand Prix. Active member of KDA and MSEDA for over 30 years. USEF “R” judge for 43 years. USDF Gold, Silver, and Bronze medalist. USDF Gold, Silver, and Bronze freestyle bars. USDF Diamond Achievement. All earned on horses I bred or trained through the levels. Currently starting a four-year-old Thoroughbred mare.
Jennifer Roth
Jennifer is a USDF bronze, silver, and gold medalist and freestyle bars. She is a USEF “R” judge that is working towards the “S.” Jennifer is a FEI competitor, rider, trainer, and instructor and has enjoyed being a PM delegate in the past and looks forward to representing the membership in the future.
Charli Ann Stevens
Ready to serve the dressage community, I am an adult amateur with a USDF Bronze medal who has served on multiple GMO Boards in multiple states. Additionally, I am a Level 3 show manager who is passionate about the USDF convention and utilizing tech/social media in the equestrian community.
Jennifer Truett
Owner/head trainer of Dancing Horse Farm. Jen is a FEI “B” Certified Instructor and earned all her medals on her own, self-trained horses including the Diamond Achievement Award and the “with distinction” designation for her gold, silver, and bronze medals. She’s been a PM delegate for many years.
Region 3
Barbara Cadwell
Many times GM and PM delegate. Past At-Large Director. Owner and breeder of approved stallion Freedom, and owner of approved stallions Feuri and Niel. Bronze and Silver medalist. L Program graduate. Board member of The Dressage Foundation. Past officer and board member of GMOs in Regions 2 and 3. Board member of North Florida Dressage Association.
Tracey Corey
Tracey Corey is an amateur rider who came to dressage through eventing. When not riding, Tracey is a forensic pathologist and serves as a medical examiner in her community in north central Florida.
Stephany Fish Crossman
Stephany is a USDF Bronze and Silver medalist, as well as 1 of only 9 Accredited RWYM rider biomechanics coaches in the US. She does virtual and in-person lessons and clinics around the country. She is a past president of STRIDE, Florida’s largest GMO.
Judy Downer
I have served as a PM and GM representative to the USDF Board of Governors for over 10 years. I am an active trainer and competitor, as well as an ‘S’ dressage judge. My career in academics and pharmaceutical research provided me with effective communication, critical thinking, and problem solving skills.
Carol Freligh
Carol is a long time South Carolina Dressage & Combined Training Assoc. member and has been on the SCDCTA Executive Board as the Treasurer since 2014. She remains actively involved in the Dressage community as an amateur adult. She is an active volunteer in both educational events and horse shows.
Robert Higgins
Robert is on the USDF Bylaws Committee, is Chairman of Dressage at Devon Gentleman’s Committee, and is a FEI Dressage Steward. He chaired several USDF financial committees, was the Region 3 TD Coordinator, and is on the US Dressage Finals staff. Robert is a multi-regional USDF Awards Coordinator and has managed regional and international dressage championships.
Loretta Lucas
I am an older AA working my way up the levels. Our region is so very diverse. I will do my best to represent all the participating members at all levels.
Amy Swerdlin
PM delegate 2018-2023, GMO board member 2014-2020, Region 3 Regional Championship Site Selection Committee 2016-present, USDF Awards Committee 2016-present (Chair 2019-present), USDF Judges Committee 2023-present, joined USDF Rules Advisory Working Group and Test Writing Working Group in 2024, USEF “R” judge, Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist with Distinction.
Jean Thornton
Jean is a USEF licensed dressage judge, USDF certified instructor and Gold Medalist, owner of Equivale, breeder of over 100 foals, competitor in ridden dressage and four-in-hand combined driving. She hopes to help her fellow equine enthusiasts have their ideas heard for the betterment of the sport to improve harmony between horses and riders.
Chris Trentelman
Chairman of the USDF Bylaws Committee for many years. Prior PM delegate many times. Has attended the annual convention since the 1980’s and very involved in USDF governance. Active member and volunteer for my local GMO.
Cindi Wylie
USDF FEI B Certified Instructor, USEF “S” Judge, USDF Bronze, Silver and Gold medalist with distinction. Volunteer history in dressage of over 25 years, including serving as PM Delegate for over 25 years, various USDF committees and subcommittees, and serving on local GMO boards as well. Led committee in instituting a variety of programs helping make dressage education and awards accessible at the local level.
Region 4
Nancy Gorton
Nancy owns and operates Pine Hill Farm in Kansas City, MO. She has been the USDF Region 4 Jr/YR Coordinator and Chef d’equipe for 18 years. Past District Commissioner of North Acres Pony Club, past Assistant Regional Director of the Midwest Region Pony Club-USPC. Nancy has coached five of her students to become members of the USDF Region 4 NAYC teams, multiple students to their bronze and silver medals, hosted multiple Region 4 FEI Jr/YR Clinics, taught many Region 4 youth clinics, has attended many USDF trainers conferences, and is a USDF L Program graduate. Nancy loves to scuba, ski, bike, and sing.
Katelyn Kok
Katelyn Victoria Kok is a competitive FEI rider, L grad with distinctions, trainer, and clinician. She has her gold, silver with distinction, and bronze with distinction medals and will be working towards her ‘r’ judging license in 2024 and 2025. Katelyn’s busy program in Kansas City hosts a wide variety of horses and riders from grassroots to Grand Prix, as well as imported and consigned sale horses. You can see Katelyn compete at many Region 4 dressage shows as well as handling at the breed shows. Katelyn has not only had regional success in the competition ring, but nationally has competed regularly and coached riders at the US Dressage Finals, Festival of Champions, and National Young Horse Champions, many times on horses she has started under saddle herself.
Samantha Martinson
I’m a trainer, clinician, L Graduate with Distinction, Silver medalist, freestyle designer and a passionate competitor. I regularly compete at Regional Championships and the US Dressage Finals. I would love to continue to represent Region 4 and support the needs of our professionals, amateurs, breeders, and our freestyle community.
Megan Ward
Well aged AA seeks PM delegate status once again. Has bronze medal, freestyle bar and silver medal. Volunteers to bring education and camaraderie to Region 4. Dreams big despite limited means. Looking to share the journey with like-minded grass roots advocates.
Region 5
Joan Clay
I’ve been a member of RMDS since 1993. Currently, I’m an RMDS TD and the Region 5 FEI Youth Coordinator. I’ve been involved in our dressage community as an adult amateur (prior to 2008), an open competitor and instructor, show manager, TD, RMDS Junior Camp Director, and club officer.
Cecilia Cox
As a USAF spouse I’ve lived in several USDF Regions. I’ve been on state boards, organized shows, volunteered, competed, served as a PM delegate (Regions 9 & 5), while enjoying helping and getting to know people. I’m on the national Awards Committee. It would be a privilege to represent Region 5 again.
Karen Harkin
Karen Harkin is president of Grand Valley Dressage Society, Scholarship Chairperson for RMDS, a 2023 USDF PM delegate, and past board chair and volunteer for two homeless shelters. She returns to competition as an amateur in 2024 after a year-long medical absence, showing her own Sandro Malta and Hosanna NSN.
Kaye Phaneuf
Dressage Technical Delegate/R, USEF C2 Steward/R, USDF Region 5 PM delegate, member of the USDF Technical Delegates Committee. Previously was a Region 6 PM delegate (nine years), IEA Steward (three years), Arabian and Dressage show secretary (30+ years), breeder and amateur competitor. I bring a broad perspective on USDF’s organization, member services, and role within the USEF family of affiliate organizations.
Carole Weamer
I am an adult amateur that is currently training an OTTB in dressage, and enjoy showing. I have a passion for learning in all aspects of life. I look forward to giving back to my region and the dressage community.
Region 6
Tabitha Hopp
I’m a retired Army veteran and have been involved in dressage for over 15 years. An L graduate with distinction, I’m currently in the licensing process for my ‘r’ in Western dressage and seek to continue to ‘r’ in classical dressage. I’ve officiated at many local dressage events and compete as an adult amateur in dressage, western dressage, and combined driving. Having lived in multiple regions and being a dressage official will help me support the education and growth of the USDF family.
Jessy Olson
Jessy Olson is a professional trainer who over the last decade has achieved her bronze and most of her silver. She is an L graduate and is passionate about giving back to the sport and education. She is currently the vice president of a local GMO, the Lower Puget Sound Dressage Club. She believes that dressage builds true communication between horse and rider, and believes it helps any breed.
Jo Renn
I am a “r” technical delegate, L grad with distinction, silver medalist, and adult amateur. I have been: GMO board member, manager of recognized and schooling shows, volunteer coordinator, and L program organizer. The more I learn and engage in this community, the more I enjoy the sport. I would also like to help others to become more involved.
Peter Rothschild
Peter has been involved with Region 6 since 1995 and has been a delegate many times. He wants to continue making USDF more open to all its members through more transparency and encourage more member involvement. He is a current delegate and looks forward to serving the region again.
Renae Talton
I am a USDF Bronze and Silver medalist as well as a USDF L graduate. I live, operate, and ride in the lovely state of Montana where I regularly teach clinics for all levels and train young horses, keeping the dressage basics as my foundation in all training.
Michael Taylor
I have served as a PM Delegate the past two years, attended six conventions in person, currently a sitting member of the USDF Competition Management Committee, volunteered at US Dressage Finals three times, a licensed official as a “R” Dressage Technical Delegate and a show manager for 20+ years.
Region 7
Rebecca Armstrong, DVM
A life-long Adult Amateur competitor I have an enduring passion for dressage as evidenced by breeding and competing my homebred Trakehners from Training level through I-1; achieving my Bronze, Silver and Silver FS medals; and, competing in DSHB classes. I’m also a USEF/USDF Dressage and DSHB ‘r’ judge.
Laurie Daniel
I have been involved in the dressage community for over 35 years. I’ve served on the CDS Board, on CDS committees, and with my local CDS Chapter. As a Dressage Technical Delegate, show manager, show secretary and competitor, I am concerned about all aspects of the sport. I have particular interest when it comes to the decisions made by our National Governing bodies. It would be my pleasure to again represent the USDF members of Region 7.
Ellie Hardesty
I served on the CDS San Diego Board for 8 years, assuming roles such as Volunteer Coordinator and Circuit Coordinator, and as Chapter Chair from 2017-2022. Being honored with the CDS Chapter Chair of the Year award in 2020 was a humbling recognition of the collective efforts of our community during challenging times. I have personally competed through FEI Intermediare I1, earning both my USDF Bronze and Silver Medals.
Rebecca Harris
I’ve been an avid dressage fan and volunteer for 29 years. My goals for 2024 are to complete my ‘r’ TD application and volunteer for youth programs. I have lived in all the regions of California, visited Las Vegas for the World Cup, and look forward to seeing Hawaii.
Anita Nardine
I am a ‘r’ judge, breeder of Oldenburg dressage horses, and earned my silver medal as an adult amateur. I believe my experience represents a wide variety of viewpoints and I would be honored to represent Region 7 once again as a delegate.
Doris North
Doris is an FEI Steward for Dressage, a Region 7 dressage competitor, volunteer, and Hanoverian breeder. Working within the dressage community as a Licensed USEF ‘R’ Technical Delegate, she is also a participating member of the USDF Technical Delegates and USDF Awards Committees.
Ruth Shirkey
I have been member of USDF/CDS for the last 20 years. I am a competitive rider, as well as a “r” USDF Judge and wish to bring my experiences and those of my peers in Region 7 to the forefront with USDF. I will represent Region 7 to the best of my abilities. I am devoted to the sport of Dressage and the improvement of USDF as an organization that supports all of it members.
Region 8
Fie Andersen
Fie Andersen owns Equito Dressage LLC, a boutique training and breeding business. Fie is a GP trainer and enjoys showing alongside her clients in New England. Fie hold her ‘R’ dressage judge license and will pursue her ‘S’ license. Fie currently serves on the USEF High Performance Dressage Committee Rules Working Group.
Lori Barnard
Thank you for the consideration to represent Region 8 as your delegate. I am invested in the sport in many different ways – trainer, instructor, and USEF/USDF “S” judge. I operate my business from the Northwest region of Vermont and my clients show primarily in Region 8. I look forward to serving the needs of our areas membership.
Bobbi Carleton
Bobbi Carleton is the manager and trainer of Weatogue Stables is Salisbury, CT. She is a USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold medalist, and a USEF “R” dressage judge. Bobbi still actively competes at all levels, and maintains an active judging schedule for both schooling and recognized events.
Lara Ceppi
I am an adult amateur, USDF bronze and silver medalist, amateur equine photographer, and longtime USDF Region 8 member. My love of equestrian sports began in high school and has followed me throughout my educational and professional life, from working student to weekend warrior.
Regina Cristo
I have enjoyed my past time as a delegate for Region 8. I hope to gain your support again for 2024. I am an Adult Amateur, Bronze and Silver medalist, and an L graduate with distinction. My experience with the USDF as a longtime member, competitor, volunteer, and official brings a host of knowledge to represent all our Region 8 members. Thank you!
Sarah Geikie – No bio submitted.
Diane Holston
I am an Adult Amateur, I currently own and ride my KWPN mare . I have gone to many conventions over the years and look forward to doing so again. I currently serve on the Awards Committee for Region 8 . I look forward to representing you again this year.
Stan Horton
Stan Horton is an Owner/Manager of the Dressage at Stockade competition series and also a past Manager for ENYDCTA Dressage Days. He’s served as a Region 8 PM Delegate since 2017. Stan volunteered for years at the NEDA Fall Festival and Region 8 Championships, and was honored to be named USDF Region 8 Volunteer of the Year in 2019. He looks forward to the opportunity to represent Region 8 again as a PM Delegate!
Anita Jaffe
Anita Jaffe is a partner (with Stan Horton) and Secretary for the Dressage at Stockade competitions in Glenville, NY. She has been a long-time volunteer at the GAIG/USDF Region 8 Championships, and also a member of the USDF Competition Management Committee. A USEF “r” Technical Delegate, Anita enjoys learning from, and sharing ideas with, competitors and management teams from across Region 8 and beyond. She would be proud to represent Region 8 as a PM Delegate again for 2024-25.
Linda Mendenhall
Linda Mendenhall is an adult amateur competing PSG and a licensed DSHB ‘r’ judge. She co-owns Hof Mendenhall Hanoverians. Linda volunteers around Region 8 in various jobs. She is the Chair of the USDF Nominating Committee. Linda looks at all perspectives (rider, owner, breeder, judge, volunteer) when performing delegate duties.
Region 9
Betty Beebe
I am a long-time member of the USDF, and a 12 year member of the Central Texas Dressage Society (CTDS). My position on the CTDS board is Mini (Schooling) Show Coordinator, and I am also the Region 9 Adult Education representative. I love this sport of dressage and I would love to represent the folks in Region 9 at the convention!
Elizabeth Clifton
Elizabeth is the founder/president of Mid-South Dressage Academy, an active rider/competitor, a competition manager, and a member of the USDF Awards Committee who has been attending convention annually for the last 15 years. Additionally, she has the tack shop Top Hats & Under That.
Arlene Gaitan
I have been actively involved in the sport of dressage for over three decades, as an amateur rider, show manager, secretary, and former president of the Alamo Dressage Association. I have also been involved in youth dressage as proud horse show mom. I am a USDF L Graduate and USEF “r” Dressage Technical Delegate and serve at many schooling and recognized shows throughout Region 9. It would be a privilege for me to represent Region 9 at the 2024 USDF Convention.
Marilyn Kulifay
I am a Show Manager and Show Secretary as well as officiating as “R” Technical Delegate, FEI Steward and “r” Judge. I enjoy working at shows and riding my horse. I have served as a PM Delegate in the past and would be honored to serve again.
Sarah Jane Martin
Region 9 Secretary; USEF Dressage TD (R); Dressage FEI Steward; (R) C1 & C2 Steward; Western Dressage Judge; Former Region 9 Director; Former USDF Executive Director.
Barbara Richardson-Lewis
Past PM delegate, past president of Dallas Dressage Club, current board member of Dallas Dressage Club, USDF L graduate with distinction, USDF bronze medalist, show manager, trainer/competitor in dressage/eventing for over 40 years.
Carolyn VandenBerg
I have served on the USDF Executive Board in the past as secretary and later as at-large director for the Technical Council. I have lived in Region 9 for the past 18 years and currently serve on the USDF Regional Championships and Technical Delegates Committees. I would like to continue to serve Region 9 as a PM delegate.
