The American Youth Horse Council (AYHC) has named Danette McGuire as executive director effective Oct. 1, 2012. First established in the early 1970’s, the organization was founded by breed organizations and extension specialists to provide a nucleus of support to the youth horse industry and particularly to adult leaders.

McGuire has over 15 years experience in youth development, program management, fundraising and leadership education in the non-profit sector. She served as the director of youth programs for the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) from 2001 to 2008. During that period, she helped facilitate significant growth in membership, scholarship awards, and entries for the world’s largest youth cutting. Prior to her tenure at NCHA, McGuire worked for the Cooperative Extension Service, first as a county 4-H agent and later as the state 4-H activities specialist in New Mexico where she coordinated statewide leadership development events as well as the annual state 4-H conference. McGuire completed a Master of Arts degree in Agricultural and Extension Education at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces.

"I’m extremely excited to have the opportunity to support the thousands of youth and adult leaders involved in the youth horse industry," said McGuire. "Having youth development experience at the county, state, and national levels, I understand and applaud the valuable work our members do every day. I’m honored to join an organization with a long history of connecting kids through horses. I look forward to working with the AYHC officers, board members and volunteers to grow membership and diversify educational resources."

"Danette’s experience and enthusiasm will lead the organization into the future in a new and exciting way. I look forward to being part of this new chapter for AYHC," said AYHC President Karen Waite, MS