September 24, 2007 (Lexington, KY) - The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) will present a Lifetime Achievement Award to Ellin Dixon Miller at the Salute Gala, on November 30, 2007, at the Adequan/USDF Annual Convention in Orlando, FL. Award winners are those who have shown a lifetime of dedication to USDF through volunteering and developing programs, projects, and committees that have contributed to USDF's mission. They also have a long history of membership in USDF.

Ellin Dixon Miller, during her presidency (1994-1999), was a transforming force. Her leadership and communication skills helped create a strong working relationship between USDF and AHSA/USET. The USDF Hall of Fame, Instructor Certification program, Young Rider Program, FEI Level Trainers Conference, Breeder's Championships, and the USDF Connection all got their start during Ellin's presidential terms. Today, USDF's permanent home at the National Educational Center at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is a culmination of Ellin's vision and groundwork during her presidency. 

USDF President Sam Barish said: "Many of USDF and the U.S. Equestrian Federation's joint accomplishments today, working in partnership together, are due in large part to Ellin's leadership in laying the foundation for joint efforts between the two organizations. In so many ways, she set a very good example of how to lead USDF to achieve its goals."

Each year, the USDF Historical Committee invites USDF members to nominate worthy candidates for Lifetime Achievement Awards (LAA).  All nominations are thoroughly reviewed, researched, and discussed by the committee.  The committee's recommendations are considered for approval by the Executive Board. A display of all LAA recipients, including Ellin Dixon Miller, will reside in the Roemer Foundation/USDF Hall of Fame in the USDF National Education Center.

Information about the Roemer Foundation/USDF Hall of Fame and LAAs can be obtained by contacting the USDF Historical Committee liaison at (859) 971-2277 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.