Straight from the Horse’s Mouth: We Have a Merger – Now What Happens?
Friday, February 19, 2021
On Wednesday during the virtual ASHA Annual Meeting, the membership voted overwhelmingly in favor of the proposed merger between ASHA and ASR, with 90.6% in favor. From the members eligible to vote (Charter Club, Contributing, Life and Senior Members), 25.4% cast their vote, which far exceeds the three-year average of 13.8% in previous elections. Thank you to everyone that took the time to vote and thank you to the ASHA and ASR boards, who have worked tirelessly for the benefit of our breed.
Now that we have a merger, what happens next? Yesterday, our attorney filed the merger documents with the Kentucky Secretary of State’s office, which makes the merger officially effective. The new combined Board, with its 27 members, met last night to elect officers and approve the new 2021 budget. I would like to congratulate our new slate of officers that includes Joe O’Brien (President), Emily Lee (Vice President), Chris Schubert (Treasurer) and Owen Weaver (Secretary). Next Monday night, the Registry Council will meet for the first time where they will elect a Registry Council Chair, to join the slate of officers above.
Even though we are now legally known as the American Saddlebred Horse and Breeders Association, Inc., you will see a six-month transition period that will include launching a new logo and branding, along with a revamped website. Once the new logo and branding are in place, you will see us move away from using the ASHA and ASR names and logos. Also, you will see the benefits of the new office efficiency project with improved customer service and staff productivity, with all staff members staying in their current positions. And, you will see increased funding for promotion and education that was made possible through the merger and hiring a new development director.
We are embarking on an exciting time for our association. I am grateful to our members, board and staff for their dedication to our beloved breed. We can do so much more together than apart.
Thank you!
David Mount, ASHBA Executive Director
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