The “Spirit of the Horse” award recognizes individuals whose lives have been profoundly changed because of their involvement with horses and who have acknowledged the impact by giving back to the horse industry.

     “Peter Cofrancesco’s life has been changed by his passion for horses,” said Malinowski. “Peter is a city kid from Paterson who, because of his commitment to excellence in support of the equine industry, has had an inconceivable, meteoric rise up the corporate ladder within the largest equine breed organization in the world, the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). It is unfathomable that a person of such a young age and from a non-western state such as New Jersey will be the AQHA’s next president! The Rutgers Equine Science Center is honored to present the Spirit of the Horse award to Mr. Cofrancesco; his accomplishments are astounding.”

     Cofrancesco has served within the AQHA for almost 20 years. His involvement with AQHA began in 1991 as the American Junior Quarter Horse Association president. Cofrancesco continued his upward climb through the ranks when he was elected to the Executive Committee. In 2012, through ascension in the AQHA governance process, Cofrancesco will have the distinction of being the youngest president in AQHA history.

     “I firmly believe that Peter exemplifies what is truly remarkable about the equine industry,” added Malinowski. “Those who have the pleasure to ride or work with horses have an ingrained desire to serve the animal in any way possible; which is what often leads to life-long careers championing the care, health, and well-being of the beloved animal.”

     For more information about the Spirit of the Horse Award, call 732-932-9419.