The Dressage Foundation is pleased to announce a recipient of TDF’s Maryal and Charlie Barnett Continuing Education for Instructors Fund. Ashley Garza (NE) will receive a $1,500 grant to be used toward participation in the United States Dressage Federation (USDF) Instructor/Trainer Development Program.
Photo by Joanna Gale
Ashley grew up riding Western and through Western dressage was introduced to dressage. Ashley is currently an assistant trainer and barn manager in Omaha, Nebraska. She plans to take part in the USDF Instructor/Trainer Development Program to gain a deeper understanding of dressage and teaching, and to strengthen her dressage community.
Ashley said, “This grant is an incredible opportunity that directly supports my growth and development as a dressage instructor. Pursuing USDF Instructor Certification is a significant step in my career, and this funding allows me to participate in essential workshops, expand my knowledge, and refine my teaching skills. It not only helps me financially but also reinforces my commitment to the sport and my students. With this support, I can continue to advance in my education, contribute to the dressage community, and ultimately help riders and horses achieve their full potential!”
Interested instructors can apply for a grant to attend any portion of the Instructor/Trainer Development Program, including the workshops, pre-certification, and testing. Barnett Fund grants are awarded twice per year, and the next deadline for applications is July 1, 2025.
For more information about the Maryal and Charlie Barnett Continuing Education for Dressage Instructors Fund or The Dressage Foundation, please contact Sara Weiss, TDF’s Director of Grants and Programs, at (402) 434-8585 or visit www.dressagefoundation.org.
The Dressage Foundation
The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, tax-exempt, donor-driven organization that is dedicated to educating, supporting, and advancing the sport of dressage. The organization solicits contributions, appropriately allocates the donations, and awards grants to dressage riders, judges, instructors, breeders, high performance teams, nonprofit equestrian organizations, and more. For more information, please visit www.dressagefoundation.org.
