ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 25, 2024) ~ Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Department of Agriculture has announced the election of Sheila Curry as the new chair of the Maryland Horse Industry Board, with Dr. Amy Burk being chosen as vice chair. The board, which is made up of 12 members appointed by the governor, is responsible for licensing and inspecting over 800 public lesson and boarding stables. It also serves as an economic incubator to support and grow the state's horse industry.

According to Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks, both Curry and Burk are highly qualified leaders who have a deep understanding of the Maryland horse industry. "Together, they will make a tremendous leadership team for the Horse Industry Board," said Atticks. He also expressed his gratitude to them for their service.

Curry's election marks two significant milestones in the board's 26-year history - she is not only the first woman but also the first African American to hold this position. Appointed by Governor Wes Moore in late 2023, Curry has been a strong advocate for equestrian sports in Prince George's County. She played a crucial role in bringing the prestigious Washington International Horse Show to Maryland through her position with the Strategic Partnerships Office of Prince George's County Executive Angela Alsobrooks.

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"I have been working closely with the Maryland Horse Industry Board for several years now to secure improvements for the Prince George's County Equestrian Center," said Curry. "These improvements include world-class footing, new sound systems, and landscaping. We were thrilled to welcome the Washington International Horse Show to our very own equestrian center in October 2022. I am excited to be a part of this board and work towards promoting all aspects of Maryland's horse industry."

Dr. Amy Burk was re-appointed by Governor Moore for her third term on the board, representing the equine academic community. She currently serves as director of the undergraduate program in the Department of Animal and Avian Sciences at the University of Maryland. Dr. Burk has received numerous teaching awards and provides statewide educational leadership and training in equine nutrition and pasture management.

"I am truly honored to serve as vice-chair alongside our new chair, Sheila Curry," said Dr. Burk. "I look forward to working with the board staff, members, and the horse industry as a whole to ensure its vitality for years to come."

For more information about the Maryland Horse Industry Board, please contact Executive Director Ross Peddicord at ross.peddicord@maryland.gov or (240)-344-0000.

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