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ASHBA Board of Directors – Call for Nominations



The Nominating Committee invites members to submit nominations using a short nomination form. Nominated individuals will be asked to complete an application form and participate in an interview and vetting process conducted by the committee. On July 6, 2025, the Board approved the Governance Council proposal for membership election. The Nominating Committee will select nine (9) candidates to be placed on the ballot for election. Six (6) directors will be elected by the membership.

Also on July 6, the Board approved the Governance Council proposal to revise the bylaws Part B: Election of Directors Section 4 as follows. 

“In reviewing and selecting its recommended slate of nominees, the Nominating Committee shall consider the following criteria. These are guiding factors to inform the selection process and are not mandatory qualifications, except as specifically required for prospective Registry Council nominees.

(a) Geographic Representation

A diverse geographic distribution representation of the Board in relation to the concentration of Association members in each region.

(b) Professional Diversity

Representation of both amateur and professional horsemen and horsewomen on the Board.

(c) External Associations Memberships

Participation in other equine organizations, including, but not limited to:
• United States Equestrian Federation (USEF)
• United Professional Horsemen’s Association (UPHA)
• Charter Club Affiliates
• Other breed or discipline organizations
• American Saddlebred futurities

(d) Participation in Industry Activities

Nominee’s level and duration of involvement in equestrian or Association-related activities, including:
• Service as an officer or director of organizations listed above
• Participation in Association councils, committees, youth clubs, or futurities
• Participant on horse show committees
• Ownership or operation of a breeding, training, or lesson program
• Active service as a judge or steward
• Current involvement as an owner, breeder, or exhibitor of American Saddlebreds

(e) Board Composition and Leadership Needs

The Nominating Committee shall give heightened consideration to the current composition of the Board and its evolving leadership needs. The slate candidates presented shall ensure a balance of the following skills, knowledge, and expertise among incoming and current board members:

1. Extensive Experience: Ten (10) or more years of involvement in American Saddlebred activities
2. Relevant Skills: High-level expertise in finance, fundraising, organizational leadership, communication, leading volunteers, board service or other areas needed by the Association
3. Innovation: Experience in developing or leading innovative programs for American Saddlebreds
4. Commitment: Willingness, availability, and financial ability to attend Board, council, and committee meetings
5. Volunteer Service: Meaningful volunteer experience within or beyond the horse industry

(f) Registry Council Candidate Considerations

In addition to the above, the Nominating Committee shall ensure that, given the current composition and term limits of the Registry Council, there are sufficient nominees eligible for consideration who possess the following:

1. Breeding Ownership Experience: Significant experience in owning American 
Saddlebred horses used for breeding and/or their progeny
2. Operational Breeding Experience: Direct involvement in the operation of 
Saddlebred breeding programs (e.g., stud farm or broodmare management, or as 
a reproductive veterinarian)
3. Registry-Specific Knowledge: Other relevant and tenured experience or interest 
in registry matters”

Nominations must be submitted by August 15, 2025.

Submit your nomination using the following form: https://form.jotform.com/251488823369066

If you have questions please email [email protected]

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