The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ & Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) is pleased to announce an increase in its 2026 youth scholarship offerings, now totaling $11,500. The expanded amount reflects both the continued generosity of longtime supporters and the addition of a new memorial scholarship.

TWHBEA’s scholarship program has long demonstrated the Tennessee Walking Horse community’s strong commitment to supporting youth and encouraging academic achievement. This year’s increase includes an additional $1,500 contribution from Blake and Melissa Cammack, added to the TWHBEA / Dowell Family Scholarship, as well as the introduction of the W.R. Mitchell Memorial Scholarship, valued at $1,000.

The 2026 TWHBEA scholarship offerings include:

• TWHBEA / Dowell Family Scholarship – $5,000
• Jane Hardy Meredith Memorial Scholarship – $2,000
• Southwest Walking Horse Breeders Association Scholarship – $2,000
• W.R. Mitchell Memorial Scholarship – $1,000
• Additional Cammack Contribution to TWHBEA / Dowell Family Scholarship – $1,500

The newly established W.R. Mitchell Memorial Scholarship is funded by the Mitchell family in honor of W.R. Mitchell of Eight Mile, Alabama. Mr. Mitchell was a lifelong supporter of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and proudly rode Go Boy’s Scooter to the Owner-Amateur 50 & Over World Championship in 1964, an achievement he treasured and often shared with his family.

Beyond his passion for horses, Mr. Mitchell owned W.R. Mitchell Contractors, earning a respected reputation in pipeline construction with a focus on water and sewer utilities. He was also an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing and held strong values of hard work, dedication, and family. This scholarship is presented in his memory to support future generations as they pursue their educational goals.

“These scholarships represent the generosity and forward-thinking spirit of the Tennessee Walking Horse community,” said TWHBEA Youth Vice-President Nicole Tolle. “Investing in our youth is investing in the future of our industry.”

Youth members are encouraged to take full advantage of the many scholarship opportunities available throughout the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. In addition to TWHBEA’s offerings, numerous other scholarships provide further avenues of financial support.

The application deadline for TWHBEA scholarships is June 15. More information on TWHBEA scholarships and additional industry opportunities can be found online at: https://twhbea.com/youth/industry-scholarships/
TWHBEA encourages all eligible youth members to apply and take advantage of these valuable opportunities as they work toward their academic and personal goals.