By Blake Jackson
The University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment recently hosted a study abroad program in partnership with UniLaSalle, a French institution.
Organized through UK Ag Equine Programs and the Department of Animal and Food Sciences, the initiative welcomed a group of Executive Master’s in Equine Science and Business (MESB) students for a 15-day immersive experience in Kentucky’s horse industry.
During their visit, the students engaged with over 30 organizations, including nonprofits, horse farms, industry leaders, and academic and research teams across the UK campus and Central Kentucky. Their itinerary included hands-on learning, lectures, and site visits to iconic equine venues like Keeneland, the Kentucky Derby, and the Defender Kentucky Three-Day Event.
The program aimed to introduce the students to Kentucky’s prominent role in the global horse industry and highlight the University of Kentucky’s land-grant mission.
“The master’s students from UniLaSalle brought great enthusiasm and curiosity, while the Kentucky horse community warmly welcomed them and excelled in creating insightful, engaging educational experiences,” said Meghan Wulster-Radcliffe, director of strategy for equine initiatives at Martin-Gatton CAFE and lead program organizer.
“Providing training for international students allows us to highlight the strengths of Kentucky’s horse industry while fostering global connections and academic collaborations that will support equine agriculture’s long-term growth and success.”
Originally developed by UK professor Laurie Lawrence, the program was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic and relaunched this year.
Camille Eslan, MESB educational coordinator at UniLaSalle, said, “UK was selected this year as our host partner due to its strong leadership in equine research, education and extension, and the unparalleled breadth of the Lexington horse community.”
This year’s group included seven MESB students, two professors, and an innovation development engineer. Plans are underway to expand participation in 2026 and potentially include UK students by 2027.
Photo Credit: university-of-kentucky
Categories: Kentucky, Education, Livestock