The Houghton College Equestrian Program

The Houghton College Equestrian Program started with a donation of seven horses in 1984. The program now has twenty-five horses used to teach a range of techniques- from western pleasure, to riding over fences, to the precision of dressage. Students can minor in equestrian studies or major in recreation with a concentration in equestrian studies. Learn more!

Initiated by former instructor Catherine Daggett, with the whole hearted support of "Dooley's" owners Terry and Sue Williams, the Abdullah trophy—with $400+ scholarship—is awarded each year to the student who best fulfills the criteria for "most outstanding member of the equestrian program."

When Daggett retired, she remained involved in the program until her death in May 2007. Overseeing the equestrian program is Assistant Professor Jo Ann Young. Also assisting and teaching classes are instructors Andrea Boon and Adjunct Professor Dr. R.J. Stansbury. Specialists like Walter Zetti, Hank and Wilma VanBergen and Eddo Hoeksfro also contribute to the Houghton Equestrian program.

Many students bring their horses with them to college, as they find it is less expensive to board at the equestrian center than it would be to leave their equine friends at home.

The college maintains a herd of approximately 25 outstanding lesson horses. All lesson horses have been donated to the college and we are blessed that they include a majority of high quality athletes.