The Florida chapter of the United States Harness Racing Writers Association has announced the recipients of its 2015 Allen J. Finkelson Scholarship Awards.
The scholarship fund was established in memory of Mr. Finkelson, the former vice president of public relations at Pompano Park. He was also the longtime chairman of the board of the national USHWA organization and an inductee to the Harness Racing Hall of Fame as a communicator.
Each scholarship winner received $1,000.
This year’s recipients include Sarah Birkhold of Sarasota, FL, a junior at the University of Florida (Gainesville) majoring in animal science biology with a minor in management agri-business. Birkhold is a 2015 member of the Golden Key honour society. She is actively involved in the equine industry, training Standardbreds, participating in rodeo events and involved in equine reproduction.
Rebecca Soodeen of West Palm Beach, FL is also a scholarship recipient. The junior and honour student at the University of Florida (major in health science; minor in business administration) has been involved in equine related activities such as being a research assistant for the UF Wildlife Department and volunteer assistant for Bit by Bit Medical Therapeutic Riding.
“We are delighted to assist Sarah and Rebecca with financing their academic pursuits and wish them continued success,” said the Florida chapter’s president, Steven Wolf. “They are outstanding students and worthy of the scholarships.”
For 2016, the Finkelson Scholarship program continues with preference for these scholarship awards given to students majoring in journalism, communications or equine related studies. Applicants must be a resident of the State of Florida and currently accepted or enrolled in a fully accredited college or university in the United States. Criteria for selection include community service, academic achievement, and leadership. Fully completed applications must be postmarked no later than July 15, 2016.
(USHWA)