MQHYA March 2026 News

Happy New Year, MQHYA!

I hope your 2026 is off to an awesome start. We’re kicking off 2026 with big excitement, new leadership, and plenty of opportunities coming your way.

I want to start by introducing you to you 2026 MQHYA Officer & Director Team:

President: Porter Lewis

Vice President: C.J. Kirkland

Reporter: Josie Jarsulic

Executive Director-Social Chair: Ansley Mings

Executive Director- Membership Chair: Britton Kircher

Directors At Large: Charlotte Creten, Bristol Hilton, Marlie Newman, Ryder Skouby, Olivia Werdehausen

Youth advisors: Justin Eddy, Mara Lewis, Leslie Skouby

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the convention! We kicked things off with team‑building at Level Up: laser tag, arcade games, and lots of laughs. We also heard from Dave Dellin, the new CEO of AQHA, and got inspired for the year ahead.

On Sunday, I joined the Board Meeting and shared some of YOUR awesome fundraising ideas. MQHA loved them!

MQHA hosted two Show Me Success Clinics at Williams Wood University. The All-Around Clinic with Gene Spagnola, and the Ranch Clinic with Steve Meadows. Many of our youth members enjoyed this learning session and are prepping to start off the show season strong at the MQHA Maple Leaf.

Thinking ahead to Youth World and Congress. It may seem early, but if you want to show at the AQHYA World Show or compete in the NYATT at Congress, you’ll need to turn in your letter of intent as soon as possible! The 2026 form is available on the MQHA website.

If you haven’t renewed your MQHYA membership for 2026, now’s the time. Staying current ensures you’re eligible for all youth activities and opportunities throughout the year.

The Youth Excellence Seminar (Yes) will be July 8-10 in Amarillo, Texas. YES, is a three-day high energy event for ages 10 to 18, to experience valuable leadership skills, inspiring speakers and AQHYA governance fun.

A little bit about me...

I’m Porter Lewis, your 2026 MQHYA President. I’m a junior in high school and served as a Director at Large last year. My goal this year is simple: make our shows more fun, more welcoming, and more memorable for every single member. I want MQHYA to be a place where you can chase big dreams, grow your skills, and make friendships that last way beyond the arena. If you ever want to chat, hang out, or play cards, you can usually find me at Brooke Walters’ stalls or in the warm‑up arena at MQHA shows. Come say hi!

See you around the rings,

Porter Lewis and your MQHYA Youth Advisors