30/06/2025
Dear Members and Supporters,
We’ve received many questions and concerns, and we want to take this opportunity to address them directly. Most importantly, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our growing and loyal membership.
When this current Board of Directors (BOD) was elected, IFSHA membership had dropped to a historic low of just 67 members. Today, we are proud to share that we’ve grown to 131 members, with new and returning memberships coming in daily. This growth is a true testament to the hard work, transparency, and commitment we’ve dedicated to rebuilding and revitalizing this organization.
Rebuilding from the Ground Up
When the new BOD assumed leadership, we received no records, reports, or materials from the former board. This left us with the difficult task of starting from scratch—rebuilding everything from our governance structure to our communication systems. While this has certainly been a challenge, it also gave us the opportunity to fully revamp and modernize the way IFSHA operates.
While there are those who may prefer to see IFSHA fail, we are proud to say the majority of our community stands behind our mission and the progress we’ve made. Our members come first, and we are unwavering in our commitment to protect the integrity of this organization. We believe in uplifting one another, and we will not tolerate negativity, bullying, or online attacks. If defending our members and organization is labeled as “bullying,” so be it—we stand firm in our values of respect, unity, and progress.
Transparency and Member Access
Transparency is a top priority. Current BOD meeting minutes are available to any member upon request.
As for past records, the only meeting minutes from the previous board were obtained from former board members and passed along to us via a now-resigned board member. These are the only historical meeting records currently in our possession.
As an IFSHA member, you have full access to association news, current events, exclusive programs, and special offers. We value your support and are committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.
The Road Ahead
We’ve made it easier for shows to become IFSHA-rated and to earn Regional Show designation. While we regret that we were unable to provide a show list on the current website this year, we are actively rebuilding a new and improved website. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and ask for your patience as we work to enhance your experience.
We understand how frustrating delays can be—for members, prospective members, and Friesian horse enthusiasts alike—but we are making significant progress and remain excited for what’s to come.
Looking to the Future
What does the future hold for IFSHA?
Survival. Growth. Celebration.
Every single member of the current BOD is committed, passionate, and refuses to quit. We are learning, evolving, and building stronger relationships throughout the community. We are deeply grateful to our supporters—you are the foundation of everything we do.
Looking ahead, we are already hard at work planning a landmark event: 2026 will mark the 25th Anniversary of the IFSHA World Championship and Grand National Show! Details will be announced at the appropriate time—and we promise it will be an event worthy of our incredible community.
Contact Your Board
We welcome all questions and feedback. Please feel free to reach out to any of us directly:
Travis King, President / Social Media Chair
📧 [email protected]
Elizabeth Wyandt, Vice President / Bylaws Chair / USEF Friesian Committee / USEF National Breeds & Disciplines Advisory Group
📧 [email protected]
Shirley Trail, Treasurer
📧 [email protected]
Alice Eanes, Show Committee Chair
📧 [email protected]
Mary Ellen Weisner, Membership Chair
📧 [email protected]
Bruce Griffin
📧 [email protected]
Courtney Milledge
📧 [email protected]
Mary Mead
[email protected]
Edward Sexton
[email protected]
Taylor Dehorty, Executive Secretary
📧 [email protected]
Thank you once again for your continued support, encouragement, and participation. We can’t wait to see each and every one of you at the 2025 Grand National Friesian Horse Show October 9-11 at the Virginia Horse Center Lexington, VA!
Warm regards,
The IFSHA Board of Directors
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