Lexington, Virginia, The Virginia Horse Center Foundation (VHCF) is pleased to announce the addition of George Williams and Brooks Cushman to the Board of Directors.

George Williams is a highly accomplished International Grand Prix competitor who is widely renowned in his field. He is a US Team member, former president of the United States Dressage Federation (2010-2018) and is a popular clinician. George was a resident trainer and rider of Lipizzaners in Illinois for 13 years and subsequently spent nine years riding and training at Gypsy Woods Farm in Ohio. Later, he transitioned to his family business, Williams Dressage, LLC and is now living in Scottsville, Virginia, accepting horses and riders at Stave Mill Farm in Esmont, VA.

“George adds a unique combination of perspectives to the Board,” said Gardy Bloemers, President. "He brings a wealth of knowledge as an international dressage competitor, national youth coach and top instructor. In addition, he has many years of experience in non-profit leadership."

George is the US Dressage National Youth Coach and is an appointee to the Federation Equestrian International Dressage Committee.

“In its role as one of the top multi-discipline equestrian facilities in the US, the Virginia Horse Center pulls in competitors from many states,” Williams said. “As the Center continues to make updates and improvements, I see it playing an even more vital role than it already does to not only the horse community and equestrian sports, but also to the community at large. It is an honor to be asked and an exciting time to be part of the Board.”

Brooks Cushman is a native of North Carolina and a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in journalism. She and her husband spent several years in New York City and later purchased a farm and moved to Middlebrook.

Foxhunting and thoroughbreds have a place in her heart, but Connemaras are her current passion. She has six horses, two donkeys, and 11 dogs. Brooks has been a loyal volunteer and supporter of the VHC over the years.

“My biggest dream for the Virginia Horse Center is that we secure its future as open land for generations to come,” Cushman said. “My ongoing financial commitment to the VHC (through my Annual Gift, sponsorships, and a bequest) is to support the vision of being the premier horse facility in Virginia.”

The Virginia Horse Center Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 organization that provides a world-class facility hosting regional, national and international equestrian events in Lexington, Virginia.

The Virginia Horse Center Foundation envisions a unique, bucolic landmark to honor and celebrate the timeless, special bond between mankind and the horse through safe, fair and spirited equestrian competition.