BY TAMMY A GANTT
OCALA, FL—The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association hosted College of Central Florida equine studies intern Donna Bell in the membership, events and sales department August through October. Bell gained knowledge of the Florida Thoroughbred industry through project research, social media audits, creating marketing products and assisting with promotions, events and fundraisers.
“Internships play a big role in our programs at the College of Central Florida, and we’re so thankful for the strong support we get from local businesses and organizations like the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association,” CF manager Bonnie Hays said.
“These experiences give students a chance to build their résumés, make real-world connections and explore career paths they might not have considered otherwise. It is always exciting to see students discover new opportunities in their field through internships. We look forward to growing internship options for our students and continuing to connect talented students with our employer partners.”
A military spouse for more than 35 years, Bell was in a unique position to both live in the military family community and work alongside solders. Bell already holds one degree and thanks to the GI Bill, is earning a Bachelor of Applied Science in business and organizational management with emphasis on agribusiness and equine studies. Additionally, she is completing an equine technician professional certification and has completed the basics of agribusiness advanced technical certification.
“The BAS program allowed me to pursue my passion of horses and horticulture,” Bell said.
“Living in the Horse Capital of the World®, I knew I would become involved in the equine industry. The internship at FTBOA allows me the opportunity to gain experience firsthand about the Florida Thoroughbred industry and make great friendships and connections among the industry partners.”
“Donna brings passion, insight, and real-world experience to everything she does,” associate professor and program manager for the equine studies department Marie Davidson said. “As a straight-A student, she immerses herself in the firsthand training at the CF’s Vintage Farm and excels in the curriculum in horse care, first aid, equine facility management and emerging trends. Her dedication to all thing’s equine is demonstrated in her volunteer work, leadership in activities, and constant pursuit of excellence.”
“The Equine Program at CF helps her in this pursuit with a dynamic and immersive education in equine business management and equine exercise physiology by offering certificates, associate degrees, and a business degree with equine specialization.”
The curriculum emphasizes proven methods, emerging trends, and essential business skills, while building important industry connections. This prepares graduates for diverse careers in the equine field. Faculty mentorship further enhances student readiness, guiding them toward impactful internships with organizations like the FTBOA.
She is a member of the CF Equine Club, Pre-vet Association Club, Agriculture Club, Business Entrepreneur Club, and the Kappa Nu Chapter of the Phi Theta Cappa honor society.
Outside the barn and classroom, Bell enjoys volunteering at equine events such as Live Oak International, the Stirrups N Strides fundraising gala, and the Florida Thoroughbred industry golf tournament and brunch. She also pursues gardening, painting, yoga, Tai Chi and cares for her family’s eleven cats and dogs. She is also a member of the Florida Thoro-bred Fillies social and philanthropic club.
Her plans after graduation in the Spring are to continue professional certification programs and remain active in the equine community through both work and volunteer roles.
Return to the October 16 issue of Wire to Wire
