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Equest’s Blue Ribbon Gala Is Saddling Up for a Memorable 46th Year 

Equest will celebrate its 46th Blue Ribbon Gala
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PHOTO: Equest

Equest will round up support during its 46th annual Blue Ribbon Gala: “Humans. Horses. Hope.” from 6 to 11 p.m. on April 24, 2027.

During the event at Texas Horse Park, Equest will recognize and honor individuals who have furthered its mission to provide equine-assisted activities and therapies to veterans facing adjustment challenges and children and adults with physical, cognitive, sensory, coping, and learning disabilities.

Certified equine and canine osteopath and bodywork practitioner Leslie Kennedy will receive the Susan Schwartz Founder’s Award in recognition of her leadership, generosity, and dedication to the nonprofit. The award was established in honor of Equest’s co-founder, Susan Neustadt Schwartz.

The Citation Award, which honors those whose service and leadership exemplify excellence within the Equest community, will be presented to the Ballew Foundation, which was created by Donna and Joe Ballew.

The event will also include a seated dinner, signature cocktails, a live auction and raffle, and a performance by The Manhattan Orchestra of The Jordan Kahn Music Company.

To learn more or support the event, visit Equest’s website or contact Angela Escamilla at [email protected] or 972.412.1099, ext. 209. Individual tickets will be released closer to the event.

Equest has been helping individuals gain confidence, improve their physical and emotional well-being, and build independence since 1981.

The 2027 gala co-chairs are Nicole and Guntram Merl and Lisa Bhattacharya, with Lisa and Charles Berger serving as Honorary Chairs.

Author

Isabella Ferreri

Isabella Ferreri

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Isabella Ferreri, an editorial intern at People Newspapers, is a recent journalism graduate from the University of North Texas. Her story began at the school’s newspaper, The North Texas Daily. Apart from reporting at her college’s newspaper, Isabella has worked as a freelance reporter at the Dallas Observer and Denton County Magazine.
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