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Laureen K. Johnson Takes New Role In Stride as USEF High Performance Director of the Para-Equestrian Discipline
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Posted by Lindsay McCall



Laureen Johnson (Photo: Lindsay McCall)
With the 2014 World Equestrian Games and 2016 Paralympics on the four-year calendar Laureen will also have to face a few challenges. Laureen explained, "The biggest challenge is fundraising and securing high quality, competitive horses. The budget for Para-Equestrian and Vaulting is limited so it is imperative that the athletes receive more funding which will help increase their international presence."
Raising the capital for each discipline can be difficult which is why the United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) works with the Para-Dressage and Para-Driving equestrians to help reach their goals nationally and internationally. The USPEA is a large network that continues to support the disabled athletes in all aspects of competition and training. Laureen mentioned, "I'm eager to work closely with the USEF recognized Para-Equestrian affiliate, USPEA, in developing grass root riders into elite athletes. The USPEA conducts outstanding clinics and educational seminars for riders and officials. The new and experienced Para-Equestrian athletes are fortunate to have the high caliber support and knowledge from the USPEA. Synergistically, the USPEA and USEF will develop the finest of athletes."
President of the USPEA Hope Hand commented, "We are looking forward to working with Laureen and are very excited for her new role at USEF. Laureen's great attitude, willingness to work as a team, and dedication to the athletes will provide each of the disciplines she works with the support needed to succeed around the world.
In June 2012 Laureen married Lee Schenck and they reside in Bridgewater, NJ. Between Laureen and her husband Lee they have six adult children and one grandchild. When Laureen has free time she enjoys spending time with family and friends and relaxing at their beach house in North Wildwood, NJ.
To contact High Performance Director of Para Equestrian and Vaulting and Assistant to Driving Laureen K. Johnson please e-mail lkjohnson@usef.org or call USEF at (908) 326-1155.
On December 14, 2012 the Para-Equestrian High Performance Committee and Para-Equestrian Eligible Athlete Committee were announced. Both committees are pending approval of the USEF Executive Committee.
Para-Equestrian High Performance Committee (Pending approval of the Executive Committee)
The Chair of the High Performance Committee is Hope Hand
Co-Chair of the High Performance Committee is Barb Grassmyer
Dale Dedrick
Barabara Grassmyer, Elected Eligible Athlete
Hope Hand
Rebecca Hart, Elected Eligible
Mary Jordan, Elected Eligible Athlete
Kim Kelly
Sandy Rafferty
Melissa Ransehousen
Sharon Schneidman
Lynn Siedemann
Hardy Zantke
The Chair and Vice-Chair of the Para-Equestrian High Performance Committee will be named shortly.
Para-Equestrian Eligible Athlete Committee (Pending approval of the Executive Committee)
Mary Jordan, Chair
Rebecca Hart, Vice Chair
Erin Alberda
Robin Brueckmann
Barbara Grassmyer
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