2020 NSBA Youth of the Year Winner - Jacqueline Potwora
2021 marks the first year that the NSBA Youth of the Year will be presented with a $4,000 scholarship from the Susan Scott Memorial Fund. The award is presented annually by the NSBA Foundation to a deserving youth who has gone above and beyond to exhibit exemplary character in helping others through community service. In addition to the scholarship, a $500 donation is made to the charity of choice in the winner’s name.
This year, the award received more applications than prior years resulting in a tough decision for the review committee. Seven finalists have been selected by the review committee with the winner to be announced during the Annual NSBA Honors Awards banquet held Sunday August 15th at 6:30 p.m. on stage in the Ford Truck Arena at Expo Square in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
• Alexis Potts, Fountain Inn, South Carolina, Stirrup Your Spirits, helping youth overcome obstacles and bullying;
• Amber Nusser, Longmont, Colorado, Boulder County Fair Queen, educating people about agriculture;
• Calen Braden, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, volunteer with Partners for Progress, therapeutic riding center;
• Emma De Jong, Bargersville, Indiana, fundraiser and volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, Habitat’s Women Build;
• Grant Mastin, Jackson, Ohio, created Tackles for Tots to support Jackson, Ohio Area Events Joyful Christmas shoe drive;
• Ian McFarlin, Tallahassee, Florida, volunteer with Hands and Hearts for Horses equine assisted-therapy program;
• and Taylor Smith, Salado, Texas, volunteer with Foster Performance Horses helping therapeutic and horseless riders.
“Each of the applicants are to be commended for their outstanding service to their projects. They truly represent the motto of the NSBA Youth, Doing Good in the Neighborhood,” noted Stephanie Lynn, NSBA executive director. “The work of these outstanding youth is a tremendous testament to their servant heart and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”
The Susan Scott Memorial fund was established to honor Susan’s memory and foster the lifelong skills learned as a youth involved with horses and horse showing. Rewarding young horsemen who give selflessly perpetuates the characteristics most often found in successful individuals, regardless of their career paths. The fund was made possible through the generous contributions garnered from the auction of Susan’s custom-made Harris saddle and memorial contributions made to the NSBA Foundation in Susan’s name. The saddle was donated by Susan’s daughter, Nancy Ditty, along with her husband Seth and son Luke.
About the NSBA
Established in 1983, National Snaffle Bit Association has expanded from its roots of the pleasure horse to recognize various disciplines and eight breed associations in competition. NSBA’s mission is to grow the show horse community through various equine programs and events where every activity benefits horses, breeders, owners and exhibitors alike.
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