SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
The young generation is very important to the Walking Horse Trainers Association. To support the educational efforts of those in need, in 1989 a yearly scholarship fund was established. This very proactive venture has proved most worthwhile in helping our future generation progress in the educational career. So far there have been 82 recipients awarded. In 2025, the WHTA was able to award six students with $23,000 in scholarship funds, being the most in the associations history!
To apply for the WHTA Scholarship, please read all of the following requirements and instructions. Download the application form below and deliver to the WHTA office or mail to P.O. Box 61 Shelbyville, TN 37162.
The deadline to apply is July 1st, 2026.
Scholarship Rules and Regulations
1. An applicant must be a high school graduate and not over 21 years of age.
2. An official sealed transcript must be attached to application.
3. Applicant must submit a recent photo.
4. Applicant may re-apply if not selected.
5. These scholarships are for use at a college or university.
6. An essay must be submitted detailing, but not limited to, the applicant’s involvement in the Walking Horse industry.
7. Applicant may only win this scholarship one year.
8. Amount of Scholarships shall be announced.
9. The amount of the scholarship will be paid directly to the applicants school of choice following received proof of first semester passing grades.
9. Board of Directors of W.H.T.A. shall have final approval.
Applications will be professionally evaluated based on the following criteria and scored on a scale of 1 to 5.
1. Academic Achievement: Rank in class, ACT or SAT scores, Grade Point Average, Academic awards or organizations.
2. Extracurricular Achievements: Activities involved in and awards.
3. Citizenship Achievements: Leadership positions (elected or appointed), Community or church involvements.
4. Contributions to the Walking Horse Industry past and present.
5. Financial Need: Not a determining factor but a consideration.
2025 WHTA Scholarship Recipents
Julia Paige Callaway, daughter of John Allan and Jada Callaway, will be attending George Mason University to pursue a career as a medical examiner. Julia has already begun classes, so pictured is the Scholarship Committee Chair, Rodney Dick.
Caroline Grace Burrahm, daughter of Josh and Casey Burrahm, will be attending Bryan College to pursue a career as a physical therapist.
Margaret Elizabeth Taylor, daughter of Shawna and Brandon Taylor, will be attending the University of Tennessee at Martin to pursue a career in veterinary technology. Margaret has already begun classes, so pictured is her sister, Madison.
Addison Elizabeth Harris, daughter of Justin and Slayden Harris, will be attending Columbia State Community College to pursue a career as a nuclear medicine technologist.
Cohen Chase Abernathy, son of Lauren Landers and Joseph Abernathy, will be attending Middle Tennessee State University to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot.
Ella Grace Abernathy, daughter of Edgar and Chrystal Abernathy, will be attending the University of Mississippi to pursue a career in nursing. Ella has already begun classes, so pictured is her mother, Chrystal.
The WHTA was proud to present the scholarships to these recipients on the first Saturday night, August 23rd, of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, during the evening ceremony. Best of luck to these young scholars! To see prior scholarship recipients, please click the link below!