2026 Scholarship Winner
Samantha Parks

 

Congratulations to Samantha Parks as our 2026 PSHA Scholarship winner.

Samantha is the daughter of Jamie and Melonie Parks and sister to Duncan Parks. A recent graduate of Lynden High School, she has been actively involved in the equestrian gaming community for 16 years. Throughout her riding career, Samantha has demonstrated exceptional dedication, sportsmanship, and leadership, earning numerous awards through WAHSET, State Finals, and Interstate competitions.

This fall, Samantha plans to attend the University of Idaho, where she will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Pathology and Horticulture. Her long-term goal is to return to Whatcom County and support local farmers by improving crop health, increasing agricultural efficiency, and contributing to more sustainable farming practices.

The following excerpt was taken from her application essay; “My most meaningful growth came from competing alongside one person.  My fellow athlete and friend with Down Syndrome. I was taught that one of the most important roles as a leader is advocacy for both your teammates and your horses. My friend, who had spent years cheering us on from the sidelines, finally had the chance to compete. When he initially joined, he only was able to sign up for one event, driving. But with help from a few friends, I created an In-Hand Obstacle Relay team and arranged practices using my brother’s horse, Melodee. Together, we worked on the patterns and grew his confidence with a new horse. In the end it didn’t matter how many mistakes we made or how we placed, we got to see the overwhelming joy on his face while he competed with us. Watching him walk out of the show ring feeling like a champion, was all I needed to know that the extra work to coordinate that team was beyond worth it.”  

The PSHA Scholarship recognizes young riders who exemplify dedication, achievement, and a commitment to their future goals. Samantha's accomplishments both in and out of the equestrian community make her a deserving recipient of this honor.

Congratulations, Samantha! PSHA wishes you continued success as you begin this exciting new chapter and pursue your goals in higher education and agriculture.

 

 

PATTERNED SPEED HORSE ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP

One – $1,200.00 awarded to PSHA member 2026 Graduate.   This scholarship is a non-renewable to be awarded by June 1^st, 2026.

Criteria:

• You must be a senior in High School during the current school year of that year in which applying for the scholarship.
• You must be a current member of PSHA and have a current second timer’s card or higher official card.
• Copy of High School Transcript included with application.
• You must be furthering your education after High School.

(If awarded scholarship, it will be paid when a copy of your registration to institution of higher learning is received at PSHA.)

One letter of recommendation from another PSHA Adult member (non family member) attached to application.

Application, essay, copy of transcript, and recommendation letter must be turned in by May 15^th, 2026 to Lesa Bland, 8426 Heimbigner Rd, Cashmere 98815.

Application below.

PSHA SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION 

 

INTERSTATE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Past Winners

2025 – Samantha Parks

2025 – Tristen Sewell

2024 – Duncan Parks

2022 – Emma LeSueur

2021 – Emma Hardin

2020 – Wylie McHale

2019 – Grace LeSueur

2018 – Lindsay Sogge

2017 – Megan Howard

2016 – Emma Vine & Hannah Sperber

2015 – Becca Flight & Kelsey Hardin

2014 – Tanner Stockwell & Anne Marie Vandersypen

2013 – Aunaleisa Salinas & Jennifer Schmunk

2012 – Katyrina Todd & Teaka Dahlstrom

2011 – Kortney Todd & Amanda Tucker

2010 – Kristie Lagerway & Kendra Bosscher

2009 – Addison Wenger & EJ Canavan

2008 – Ady Crosby & Jessica Many