Tarleton Collegiate Equine Leadership Academy
Providing students with opportunities to advance their leadership and equine experience, better positioning them for a career in the equine industry. Graduates will leave the academy with a better understanding of equine science, business, and policy related to the equine industry.
Leadership Academy Goals
- Develop leadership, networking, and communication skills
- Career exploration within the equine industry
- Foster professional growth through professional development
- Promote entrepreneurship and innovation
- Expose students to equine industries and networks on a national and global scale
- Prepare students to serve in advocacy roles
- Understand emerging technologies in the equine industry
Phase 1 – Texas Industry Experience
The first phase of the academy allows approximately ten students to attend a three-day industry tour to gain hands-on, real-world experience and deepen their understanding of the Texas equine industry. During the fall semester, students will contribute service hours, attend professional and career development sessions, and travel to an industry event.
Important Dates: November 14-16, 2025
Phase 2 – Business/Policy Experience
The second phase of the academy will take students to a major city for three days, exposing them to the political process, agricultural/equine law and lobbying, ethics of technology, agricultural/equine policy, and communications. During the spring semester, students will continue to attend professional and career development sessions and will travel to one industry event.
Important Dates: March 16-18, 2026
Phase 3 – National Industry Experience
The third phase of the academy allows students to experience the equine industry on a national scale. Students have the opportunity to travel during a May minimester to see first-hand the diversity of the equine industry in places such as Florida, Kentucky, Wyoming, and California.
Important Dates: May 10-16, 2026
Eligibility Requirements
- Enrolled in TSU Equine Certificate Program or graduate student nominated by faculty
- B or higher in all completed Equine Certificate Program courses
- Profound interest in equine science and related fields
TCELA Committee
- Dr. Jessica Leatherwood
- Dr. Trinette Jones
- Mrs. Bobbie Walton
- Dr. Rafael Martinez
- Dr. Kimberley Guay
- Mrs. Paxton Turner
Applications are currently closed for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
For more information contact: Kelley Ranly