At a recent meeting, the TWHBEA Executive Committee approved a resolution establishing a Council of Presidents composed of leaders from recognized state and regional Tennessee Walking Horse associations. The Council is designed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and alignment across all levels of the industry by creating a formal forum for sharing ideas, addressing challenges, and advancing unified initiatives. By fostering closer relationships with grassroots organizations, the Council will support local efforts, promote industry unity, and help ensure a coordinated approach to the protection and advancement of the Tennessee Walking Horse.
RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH A COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS OF STATE AND REGIONAL TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE ASSOCIATIONS
WHEREAS, the Tennessee Walking Horse industry is supported and sustained by numerous independent state and regional associations that promote the breed, foster community engagement, and expand participation at the local level; and
WHEREAS, these organizations operate independently of the breed registry yet share a common mission of advancing the Tennessee Walking Horse and ensuring its long-term success; and
WHEREAS, there is currently no formal structure to facilitate consistent communication, collaboration, and alignment between the breed registry and these affiliated organizations; and
WHEREAS, strengthening relationships with state and regional associations will enhance industry unity, improve information sharing, help establish a direct line of communication between individuals industry-wide and state and federal regulators, and create opportunities for mutual support and growth;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Executive Committee hereby establishes a Council of Presidents, composed of the sitting presidents (or their designated representatives) of recognized state and regional Tennessee Walking Horse associations; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the purpose of the Council shall be to:
Foster open communication and collaboration between the breed registry and state/regional associations;
Provide a forum for sharing ideas, challenges, and best practices;
Engage local leadership in broader industry discussions and initiatives;
Identify opportunities for the breed registry to support and strengthen grassroots efforts;
Promote unity and a shared sense of purpose across all levels of the industry;
Present and promote unified concepts for self-regulation and protection of the breed;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council shall be chaired by the Senior Vice-President, with the President and Chief Executive Officer serving as ex-officio members; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that participation in the Council shall not alter the independent status, governance, or operations of any state or regional association, but shall serve as a voluntary and collaborative partnership; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council shall meet at regular intervals, as determined by its Chair, to ensure ongoing dialogue, engagement, and alignment; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that through the establishment of this Council, the organization affirms its commitment to ensuring that state and regional associations are supported, connected, and empowered—recognizing that their success directly contributes to the strength and future of the Tennessee Walking Horse breed.
Adopted February 30, 2026 by the TWHBEA Executive Committee
