By Blake Jackson
A group of Penn State students, supported by faculty from the College of Agricultural Sciences and educators from Penn State Extension, earned recognition for their research at the 2025 Equine Science Society Symposium, held in Fort Collins, Colorado, in early June.
The international symposium, which convenes every two years, brings together equine researchers, students, and industry experts to share findings and participate in educational workshops. It plays a key role in furthering equine research and strengthening professional networks in the field.
According to Danielle Smarsh, associate professor of equine science, the Penn State team’s presentations stood out for their originality and real-world relevance. “These awards reflect the dedication and expertise of our students, supported by the mentorship of our faculty and extension colleagues,” she said.
Molly Friend, a Ph.D. candidate in integrative and biomedical physiology advised by Smarsh, secured second place in the equine biosciences graduate student section.
Friend also received the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science Graduate Student Publication award, given to the top two graduate presenters who submit their research for publication within six months. Her work focused on detecting inflammatory markers in complete blood counts and defining inflammation-related indices in horses.
In the equine production and management graduate student section, Siera Hall, also a doctoral candidate in the same program and mentored by Burt Staniar, placed third.
Hall study analyzed how diet and exercise affect inflammation in horses across Pennsylvania and suggested future research directions.
Undergraduate student Cydney Suber, majoring in veterinary and biomedical sciences with a minor in equine science, earned second place for her research with Staniar.
Suber project explored the importance of shade in equine care by measuring heart rate, body temperature, and salivary cortisol levels in shaded versus unshaded conditions. Suber participated in the USDA-funded "Bridging the Gap" program and Penn State’s Summer Research Opportunities Program.
Another undergraduate, Emily McGaffigan, presented her research with Smarsh on how sample handling methods impact complete blood counts, informing lab protocols.
Extension educators Laura Kenny and Olivia Watson shared findings on industry needs and educational methods. Staniar also placed second in the symposium’s 5K run.
Penn State is set to host the next Equine Science Society Symposium in Harrisburg in summer 2027.
Photo Credit: penn-state-college-of-ag-sciences
Categories: Pennsylvania, Education, Livestock