For those of us who have grown up around horses or who have children that choose to be involved in equestrian sport, we understand the importance of positive mentors in this niche world. These influencers come from all walks of life and share a common bond of respect for the horse. These individuals teach, sculpt and set an example for youth as to how to live a fulfilled life. As a stepmother of four children, I am highly aware of the uniqueness of these individuals in society at large and how important they are in the formative years of youth. One of the most influential young role models that I have developed an understanding and respect for in our horse show world is Dr. Piper Klemm, PhD.
As I have matured with experience over the decades, I have become a passionate advocate that all junior riders also focus on pursuing a higher education degree as a means of ensuring opportunities where ever life takes them. Piper is the embodiment of this philosophy. Most people in our sport recognize Piper as a young business professional that is the publisher and face of The Plaid Horse magazine. In actuality, she is multi-dimensional in her career(s) and beyond accomplished in academia. She is a respected scientist that not only earned her PhD in organic chemistry from the esteemed University of California science department, but she continues to publish science based papers AND will be teaching a class this fall on entrepreneurship at St. Lawrence University. Piper has created options for her career path, but specifically chosen to primarily direct her focus on her passion, equestrian sport. In a very short span of time, she has become a successful entrepreneur, innovator and influencer.