The Horse Review’s Sharlee Shumpert Shines as Runner Up in American Horse Publication's Student Media Awards
Each year, the American Horse Publications Equine Media Conference stands out as the leading gathering for professionals and aspiring writers dedicated to equine journalism. This year’s conference, held May 15-17 in Dallas, brought together publishers, editors, business owners, communication specialists and students from across the industry. For attendees, it offered invaluable educational sessions, dynamic networking and the much-anticipated AHP Equine Media Awards.
Since the early 1970s, AHP’s three-day annual conference has been the heart of equine journalism. The event is packed with workshops on journalism, visual storytelling, marketing, and professional development. More than a learning hub, it is also the epicenter for making connections that last a career. According to attendees, the AHP Conference is “the number one place in the equine industry to network with equine media professionals and AHP members”—a true “must-attend event” for anyone passionate about equine media.
This year, The Horse Review had an especially exciting reason to celebrate. Sharlee Shumpert, a dedicated writer for our publication, was one of just two media student finalists nationwide to receive a $1,000 travel award scholarship, enabling her to participate fully in the AHP Conference and Student Media Awards. Sharlee’s drive and commitment to the craft were recognized as she was ultimately named runner up in the 2025 Student Media Award competition.
What makes Sharlee’s accomplishment even more noteworthy is her status as a freshman at Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Miss. Despite her early stage in both her academic and professional journeys, Sharlee continues to make a strong impression on the world of equine journalism.
Sharlee began contributing to The Horse Review in October, crafting stories with a special focus on rodeo culture. Through her unique voice, she brings the excitement, tradition, and community of rodeo to readers in every piece. Her curiosity and enthusiasm for the western way of life shine through in her writing, and her commitment to exploring both the sport and the stories behind it is unwavering.
At the conference, Sharlee was interviewed by the Student Award Committee, a formative experience that not only recognized her current talent but also provided a glimpse into the future of equine journalism. She took full advantage of her time in Dallas, connecting with top professionals from national publications and attending breakout sessions designed to inspire and evolve the next generation of writers.
From networking with established journalists to absorbing fresh ideas in educational workshops, Sharlee left Dallas more energized than ever about her path in this unique field. She returned with new tools, actionable insights, and relationships that will help guide her career for years to come.
It is with pride and excitement that we continue to feature Sharlee’s stories in The Horse Review. Her achievements at the AHP Conference mark just the beginning of what promises to be an impactful career in equine journalism. We, at The Horse Review look forward to supporting Sharlee’s growth and celebrating her future accomplishments.
As she continues both her education and her writing career, Sharlee embodies the dedication, curiosity, and drive that define great equine media professionals. We are lucky to watch her evolution up close, and are eager to see how far her talents will take her as she digs deeper into rodeo and western culture.
Sharlee’s success is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of the energy and opportunity alive within the world of equine journalism. Events like the AHP Conference are vital for nurturing the next generation of writers. For The Horse Review and everyone championing new voices in the industry, moments like these are worth celebrating.
Congratulations, Sharlee, on your well-deserved recognition. Your future in equine journalism is bright, and we cannot wait to see the stories you share next.
