The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) is pleased to announce the winner of the 2005 Team Leadership Award, which was established to recognize outstanding student leaders who are members of USDF Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Member Organizations (IMOs).

Nicole Mazzeo was nominated for the USDF Team Leadership Award by the dressage coach at Mount Holyoke College, Rebecca Schurink, who praised Mazzeo for her hard work, dedication, leadership, and ability to motivate others. Other letters of recommendation noted Mazzeo's initiative, leadership, and her status as a role model for others involved in the program.  In accordance with the award criteria, the judges reviewed Mazzeo's personal essay, resume, college transcript, and three letters of recommendation. As the winner, Mazzeo will receive a certificate and a five-year Participating Membership with USDF.

Receiving honorable mention were Hazel Butler of Lake Erie College, and Inge Schmidt of Mount Holyoke College.

The Team Leadership Award was developed exclusively for the USDF's Intercollegiate/Interscholastic Membership. This membership category was developed in order to provide students access to USDF educational programs and to provide communication and recognition of achievement to IMOs and their student members. IM membership is available to students who attend IMO schools. Any school from middle school through college that offers an equestrian studies program or student equestrian club can become a USDF IMO school. USDF also works closely with the Intercollegiate Dressage Association to promote dressage interest, participation, and competitions among schools and students.

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.