Laureen K. Johnson was recently appointed as the U.S. Equestrian Federation High Performance Director of Para-Equestrian and Vaulting and Assistant to the High Performance Director of Driving. Johnson was previously Assistant to the Para-Equestrian and Vaulting Director. She has been with USEF since 1999, and she has assisted every high performance discipline except able-bodied dressage.

Johnson was born in Chicago, Ill., and moved to Chatham Township, N.J., when she was 13. On her 16th birthday, Johnson received her first horse, Sweet William, as a gift from her parents. Since then, Johnson has continued to enjoy all aspects of the equestrian world, including riding, volunteering at therapeutic riding centers and working for the USEF. Johnson graduated from Washington School for Secretaries and Business Administration in Washington D.C., and she began working for USEF in January 1999.

“I love the artistry and elegance of dressage and driving,” said Johnson. “The disabled athletes never cease to amaze me with their dedication and ‘can do’ attitudes. They are an extremely positive group of athletes.”

With the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (France) and 2016 Paralympics (Brazil) on the four-year calendar, Johnson will face a few challenges.

“The biggest challenge is fundraising and securing high-quality, competitive horses.  The budget for para-equestrian and vaulting is limited, so it is imperative that the athletes receive more funding, which will help increase their international presence,” said Johnson.

To contact Johnson, email lkjohnson@usef.org or call (908) 326-1155.