Otterbein’s equine community came together in September to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Austin E. Knowlton Center for Equine Science. The 2024 Equine Gala was an inspirational evening that highlighted the impact of the program on students, alumni, and families, and the experiences that have created rewarding careers, lifetime memories, and friendships.
To say that Otterbein’s Equine Science program has changed the lives of many of its students would be an understatement. Greg Schmid ’09, DVM, served as the event’s emcee, and shared, “It’s really wonderful that we’re all here to support the health and wellness initiatives for all the amazing horses at the barn.”
Schmid shared the influence that staff and faculty members had on him, including business manager Kari Briggs ’03, MBA’11, department chair Dr. Sherri Birmingham ’01, and professor emerita Dr. Maria Calderone, who also received the inaugural Industry Leader Award at the event.
In addition, several influential alumni and donors were honored at the gala, including the Plaumann-Wilson Family, who received the Philanthropic Impact Award.
Rebecca Knopf ’15 was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award and shared, “The things I learned from the equine program at Otterbein, I use every day in my work at Square Peg … every horse has something to teach you.”
Jocelyn Pierce ‘09 and emcee Greg Schmid ’09 with Otterbein horse, Ted.
Rebecca Knopf ’15 with rider at Square Peg.
John Lindberg, president of the Austin E. Knowlton Foundation, which named Otterbein’s facility 15 years ago and received the 2024 Mary B. Thomas ’28 Commitment to Otterbein Award, shared, “Austin Knowlton had a passion for horses. This project always had a lot of synergy with our Foundation, and I think Mr. Knowlton would be very, very proud that the Center has his name on it, and that we’ve been able to support Otterbein.”
There was a spirit of appreciation and generosity in the air at the Gala, with attendees and supporters giving back to the program that made a difference in their lives. The event raised more than $90,000 through donations and a silent auction, which included a $25,000 gift from the Austin E. Knowlton Foundation. Equine artist Alexandra Lederman ’18 donated a commissioned piece of art, and Jules Richter ’24 served as the event photographer. Lifetime equestrian and Otterbein trustee Karin Yaffe Stump ’80 thanked the countless alumni, volunteers, donors, faculty, and staff who helped to build the program over the years. “Working and living with horses is a special lifestyle. Horses teach discipline, resilience, determination, and grit — skills that are essential to navigating our lives.”
Equestrian and Otterbein Trustee Karin Yaffe Stump ’80 rallied the gala attendees to support the program.
Oil on canvas painting donated by Alexandra Lederman ’18.
To learn more, visit www.otterbein.edu/EquineCenter15.
Stay in the loop about Equine program news by updating your contact information at www.otterbein.edu/alumni/update.
