The NSBA Foundation has awarded Erika Vandevelde, of Casco, Wisconsin, with
the 2018 NSBA Foundation Youth Scholarship. She will earn a $2,000 scholarship,
paid in $1,000 increments for the next two years.
Erika just completed her freshmen year of college at the University of Wisconsin Lacrosse,
where she is in the pre-dental program as a chemistry major with a minor in business.
Erika grew up in the horse community, competing in 4-H, Buckskin and AQHA
events. “I started out with horses when I was very young. It’s something my grandmother
did, my mom did and that my sister and I spent many summers doing together,” she said.
She credits her involvement with the horse industry with helping her develop valuable
life skills. “I learned problem-solving, working with others, work ethic and sportsmanship,
to name a few,” she said. “Horses have helped shape me to be the person I am today. It takes
many hours to build the trust between horse and rider and I have learned that there are no
shortcuts—patience is truly a virtue and no matter what agenda you have, ultimately your
horse will rewrite your agenda most days.”
Erika plans to attend dental school with a focus on orthodontics. “I believe a great
smile is not only healthy but helps with one’s self esteem, especially during the tough
adolescent years,” she said. “I hope to continue to be involved in the horse industry and
financially support my hobby and the organizations that make it all possible. It would
be the completion of the circle of giving.” Reflecting on winning the NSBA Foundation
scholarship, Erika noted: “It’s really great to be rewarded financially by an association
that I’ve been showing and participating in for many years.”
Congratulations to Erika on earning this year’s NSBA Foundation Scholarship
Award! If you would like to apply for the 2019 NSBA Foundation Scholarship, be sure to
complete the application found on the Foundation’s page on the NSBA website. Applications
and letters of reference are due February 1 of each year.
