West Texas A&M University's Western Seat equestrian team has galloped to the top, capturing the national championship at the 2026 Intercollegiate Horse Show Association finals. The victory, secured May 1-3, marks a crowning achievement for the program and adds to a banner year of honors across the university.
The championship squad—featuring Ashton Hollingsworth, Peyton Podmolik, Violet Hodgson, Kaylen Langhofer, Kaitlyn Evans, Ashlynn Albaugh, Caoimhe Benn-Rothstein, Marina Carroll, Alexandria Woestman, Charli Wells, Hannah Minton, and Helene Keiser—rode with precision and heart under the guidance of Coach Lori Jaixen. Their national title is a testament to countless hours of training and teamwork, showcasing the discipline and passion that define equestrian sport at its highest level.
This triumph is just one highlight in a season of celebration at WTAMU. The university's Department of Communication recently honored standout students at its end-of-year banquet, including Madison Peters (Outstanding Undergraduate), Rebecca Hayes (Top Senior Portfolio), and Jessica Kenedy (Outstanding Graduate Student), with Lindsey Carder recognized as Rising Star. Meanwhile, Amanda Hibbard and Samantha Wilhelm celebrated a second-place national finish in a Public Relations Student Society of America competition, guided by adviser Dr. Nancy García-Franken.
Faculty and staff also earned accolades. Jarvis Hampton, Melissa White, and Kyler Estes received Staff Excellence Awards, while Dr. Brandon Bang was honored for his leadership of the Faculty Advisory Council. Dr. Trenton Kelly took home the Geneva Schaeffer Digital Teaching Excellence Award. In the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, top students were recognized at an April 30 reception, with honorees including Adrian Legarreta, Gatlin Guy, Parker Steinman, and others. The Departments of Political Science, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work also celebrated outstanding students like Kathleen Curry and Christian Morris.
From the equestrian arena to the classroom, WTAMU's community is riding a wave of achievement—proving that excellence knows no boundaries.