Lexington, KY (July 24, 2008) - The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) announced today that Christine Eidson is the 2008 recipient of the USDF Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Member Organization (IMO) Team Leadership Award.  As the winner, Eidson will receive a five-year USDF participating membership and certificate of recognition from USDF.  Receiving honorable mentions for 2008 were Asheley Ireland, from Westbrook, Maine, representing Mount Holyoke College, and Laura Coburn, from Hopkinton, Massachusetts, representing the University of Massachusetts. 
          Christine Eidson is a 2008 magna cum laude graduate of St. Andrews Presbyterian College, where she served as co-captain of the St. Andrews Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) team. In accordance with award criteria, the judging panel reviewed Eidson's personal essay, resume, college transcript, and letters of recommendation. The Grand Forks, North Dakota resident was recognized for her superior organizational skills, along with her ability to motivate and unite individuals towards a common goal.
          St. Andrews Presbyterian College IDA team coach and IMO Representative, Jackie Dwelle, recommended Eidson for the award because she "exhibits the characteristics of a true leader; innovation, planning, delegation, persistence, positive attitude, and most importantly, the team spirit needed to motivate others to excel."
          This award program was established by USDF to encourage future leaders in our sport, and to recognize outstanding leadership qualities demonstrated by members of USDF IMOs.  For more information on USDF IMOs or IMO awards, please visit the USDF Web site or contact the USDF office.

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.