Hamel Family Extends Support of $25,000 USHJA Foundation Scholarship for Five More Years

Lexington, Ky.—March 11, 2021—The USHJA is pleased to announce that the Hamel Family has committed their support of the $25,000 USHJA Foundation Hamel Family Scholarship for Further Education through 2026. Each year the $25,000 scholarship, made possible by the Kristen and James Hamel Family Foundation, awards up to three USHJA members funds to be used for college, graduate, trade, or professional school.

“One of the reasons this grant means so much to us is that we understand what it takes to set goals and accomplish them,” said Kristen Hamel. “Jim and I are passionate about education, and we didn’t see an opportunity like this in our equestrian community for financial assistance, so we made one. Ultimately, what you get out of life is what you put in. Hard work and passion are the cornerstones, but sometimes you need a little luck or assistance along the way.”

Current USHJA members who have been members for at least two consecutive years are eligible for the Hamel Scholarship for Further Education. Applicants must be accepted to a college, graduate, professional or trade school for the 2021-2022 school year; have a GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale; and demonstrate financial need.

“We are so grateful for the generosity of the Hamel Family,” said USHJA President Mary Knowlton (formerly Babick). “This scholarship has the potential to change someone’s life and afford them the ability to pursue their education dreams without having to worry about financial burden. We’re fortunate to be able to offer our members such a wonderful opportunity thanks to the Hamel Family’s support.”

Interested applicants must apply by Monday, May 17 for the 2021 scholarship. Eligible candidates may apply for the Hamel Scholarship every year but may only be awarded the scholarship once. The USHJA Foundation will award the scholarship mid-summer each year.

“We established the scholarship with the USHJA five years ago because we wanted to pay it forward. We’re very lucky and grateful for what we’re able to do, and we want other people to find their passions so they can have the life they desire. We were those people, too, and I believe the more you give to the community, the more you inspire,” said Hamel.

For more information and to apply, visit ushja.org/foundation/hamel. 

Photo provided.