Officers Named To RUS NY Management Committee

Officers and directors have been selected to 2019 RUS New York Management Committee.

Michelle Miller will be stepping back in the lead role as President of the organization with the help of non-rider David Fisher as Vice President. Fisher has 35 years in the standardbred industry dealing with all aspects from a groom to an owner, trainer, driver, farrier, tooth floater, investigator and judge.

“It is great having someone that does not ride take on a leadership role,” Miller said. “Fisher has great enthusiasm for the sport and wants to help see it succeed.”

Kara Duh will serve as the group’s secretary and take on membership responsibilities. Hannah Miller, a non-rider, will be the acting treasurer and clerk. Those accepting director roles on the committee include, Cathy Gearwar (also taking on director of sponsorship and website responsibilities) Sophie Engerran, Codie Smith and Hillary Hartnett. Directors commit to taking on at least one lead responsibility for the group and attending meetings either physically or via internet.

Duties of the those on the Management Committee shall be to:

• Provides leadership and strategic direction for the organization
• Ensures that an organization remains accountable to its donors and to the general public.
• Evaluate financial policies, approve annual budgets, and review periodic financial reports to ensure that the organization has the necessary resources to carry out its mission.
• To act as lesions to our members and represent their best interest when voting.
• Directors are expected to actively participate in organizational planning and decision-making and to make sound and informed judgments. When acting on behalf of the organization, directors must put the interests of the Group before any personal or professional concerns and avoid potential conflicts of interest.

Membership of RUS NY is open to any individual who supports the sport of Racing Under Saddle and is interested in helping the group to achieve its aim and willing to abide by the rules of the Group. Members do not need to be from New York but are encouraged to attend meetings, help fundraise and participate in discussions. Membership does not give the power to vote. The only time members get to vote is during the the Group’s Annual General Meeting to elect a Management Committee.

Benefits of membership:

• Networking opportunities and more racing opportunities
• Staying connected with what is going on - getting e-mails and updates (Members are responsible for keeping contact info up to date with the secretary)
• Members can sit on committees and help with proposals that will go in front of the Management Committee

Anybody interested in membership should email rusnewyorkseries@gmail.com.

The organization’s Management Committee must consist of a president, vice president, treasurer, secretary and at least three directors. The positions are voted on annually generally at an annual meeting.

RUS NY’s aim is to help organize and promote under saddle races for Standardbreds across the state. The main goal is to promote racing under saddle and the versatility of the Standardbred breed as both a racing and a riding horse - to help Standardbreds find great homes after they finish their days on the track.

To learn more, visit rus-newyork.com.