Karen L. Waite

Karen Waite is an equine Extension specialist at Michigan State University and teaches and advises equine students in the MSU Department of Animal Science. In her role with MSU Extension, she coordinates the Adult Equine Extension program and is the Director of Leadership Development for My Horse University. In addition, she oversees the Youth Equine Extension program and is active with eXtension Horse Quest. Her teaching responsibilities include a variety of equine courses and she is faculty advisor to the MSU Equestrian team and Horsemen’s Association. She also oversees the Michigan 4-H PEP Program, for riders with disabilities. Waite is the past president of the American Youth Horse Council, president of the Michigan Quarter Horse Association, and Michigan Horse Council education committee chair and philanthropy co-chair. She is an approved horse judge with the American Buckskin Registry Association (ABRA) and Pony of the Americas Club (POAC). She was recognized in 2011 by the Michigan Horse Council with its Catalyst Award for her outstanding service to the Michigan horse industry. Additionally, Waite has been recognized with an eXtension CoP award, ITeam, 2010 NAE4-HA Educational Technology Award, 2010 Maryland Association of Extension 4-H Agents – Specialty Award, 2003 Michigan Harness Horsemen’s Association Appreciation Award, and 1999 Michigan Palomino Horse Association Sportsperson Award. Additionally, she has been active with the Holt United Methodist Church and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Waite holds bachelor’s degrees in education and animal science, and a master’s in animal science with a nutrition emphasis, as well as a doctoral degree in sports psychology with an emphasis on equestrian sport and activity.