The Jockey Club announced today the recipients of its five academic scholarships, which will be awarded for the 2026-2027 academic year.
The Jockey Club Scholarship ($10,000 per semester, awarded to students in academic pursuit of majors for future employment in the equine industry):
William Fallon recently graduated from Wake Forest University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He will be attending veterinary school at Cornell University beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year. William has worked as a veterinarian technician at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute since March 2020.
Beverley Grace Goderre plans to graduate from the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, in December 2026 with a Master of Science in Cardiovascular Physiology in the Department of Biomedical Sciences. Beverley will then continue school until December 2030 to obtain their PhD. Beverley is currently an equine teaching herd manager, sessional lecturer, and clinical cardiology assistant. They are undertaking research into factors associated with sudden death in racehorses.
Marilee Herrera is studying for her bachelor's degree in Equine Rehabilitation and Equine Business and Sales and is expected to graduate in May 2027. In 2023, she graduated from Bluegrass Community and Technical College with an associate's degree in Equine Science. She also received her bachelor's degree in agriculture at the University of Arizona Racetrack Industry Program.
The Jockey Club Benevolence Scholarship ($7,500 per semester, provides needs-based assistance with preference to backstretch and horse farm employees and their family members):
Julissa Sepulveda is studying Animal Science on the pre-vet track at the University of Kentucky. Julissa expects to graduate in May 2028. Julissa's family has been involved in the horse racing industry for more than 15 years.
The Jockey Club Jack Goodman Scholarship ($3,000 per semester, open to students enrolled in the University of Arizona's Race Track Industry Program (RTIP)):
Ciara Dominguez plans to graduate from RTIP in May 2029 with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences. Ciara has been a licensed groom in the state of Arizona since 2023. She also works as an assistant trainer for her father where she focuses on working weanlings, starting yearlings, and re-training off-track Thoroughbreds. In the future, Ciara hopes to become a bloodstock agent or a manager at a breeding farm but could also see herself working as a vet.
"I remain thoroughly impressed that each year the caliber of applicants for our scholarships is exceptional," said James L. Gagliano, president and COO, The Jockey Club. "These individuals reflect the strength and promise of our industry, and I am confident they will have a lasting influence on the sport."
Applications for the 2027-2028 academic year will open this fall.
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