In Memoriam: Roger Secrist
The USEA sends our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of former USEA Board of Governors member Roger Secrist. Secrist played a pivotal role in founding of the Carolina Horse Park (Raeford, North Carolina) and spearheaded several influential initiatives for the USEA during his terms on the Board.
"Roger joined the board at a very opportune time for the USEA," said former USEA CEO Jo Whitehouse. "In 2003, when we were planning the launch of the first American Eventing Championships, we were still trying to finalize details of the venue. As President of the Carolina Horse Park, he and the Vice President Lefreda Williams offered to host the first ever championships at the park in 2004. He was a tireless member of the Board of Governors and the Executive Committee putting in numerous hours per week with me and Judy Ottoviani to ensure the Association was successful financially.
He was a great supporter of our first Strategic Planning session in 2005 under the guidance of ASAE expert Bud Collins. With the enthusiastic participation of fellow Executive Committee members, Kyra Stuart, Beth Lendrum, and Jennifer Akers, the session was a huge success and responsible for driving the USEA forward in developing valuable programs for our members in the following years. Roger brought immense business expertise, energy, and commitment to our team, and his contributions to furthering the sport will never be forgotten."
The Carolina Horse Park put together the following tribute to Secrist, which was read aloud in his memory during the Carolina International Horse Trials:
"It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Roger Secrist, Founding Member of the Carolina Horse Park Foundation.
Roger, a retired chemical executive from Chicago, Illinois, was among a small group of local equestrian enthusiasts who envisioned the development of a world-class facility dedicated to horses, community involvement, economic development and land conservation.
Together with Founding Members Lefreda Williams and Denny Emerson, Roger played a key role in establishing the Carolina Horse Park Foundation. He helped secure the necessary funds to acquire the first parcels of land, oversee the construction of the top-quality cross-country courses, and build the Stoneybrook Steeplechase track. Additionally, Roger acknowledged the importance of appointing a diverse group of local professionals and business owners to the Board of Directors.
The Carolina Horse Park exists today because of Roger’s successful business experience, strong leadership skills and a true vision for the future. Thank you Roger for all your hard work, dedication and unrelenting passion for Carolina Horse Park."
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