From the K.E.E.P. Media Team:

KEEP Foundation and The Race for Education Award Nearly $80,000 in 2025 Scholarships Supporting the Future of the Equine Industry

Lexington, Ky. July 14, 2025 – The KEEP Foundation, in partnership with The Race for Education, proudly announced the 2025 recipients of its annual scholarship awards. The KEEP Foundation and the Race for Education awarded nearly $80,000 in scholarships to students pursuing careers in the equine industry, agribusiness, veterinary sciences, and other agriculture-related fields.

In addition to the Race for Education/KEEP Foundation Scholarships; this year marks a significant milestone with the Race for Education’s presentation of the first annual Bob Reeves Memorial Scholarship, in addition to its annual Robert J. Frankel Scholarship. Both scholarships were established to honor the lasting legacies of two individuals who shaped the Thoroughbred industry through their dedication and integrity.

“These students represent the future of our industry,” said Katie LaMonica, Chair of the KEEP Foundation Board. “We are proud to support their academic journeys and look forward to seeing the contributions they will make in equine and agricultural fields. Our partnership with The Race for Education ensures that the talent and passion within Kentucky’s horse industry continues to grow.”

CLICK HERE for a complete list of this year’s Race for Education/KEEP Foundation Scholarship recipients.

 

The Bob Reeves Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of the late Bob Reeves—a tireless advocate for education and Thoroughbred aftercare—recognizes an Ohio student who demonstrates exceptional leadership and a commitment to equine industry.

This year’s Bob Reeves Memorial Scholarship recipient is Samantha Mayhugh, who will be attending Ohio State University.

The Robert J. Frankel Scholarship, established in honor of the legendary Hall of Fame trainer, is awarded to students who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement and have an immediate family member working at a farm or racetrack. All of the 2025 Frankel Scholarship recipients have a parent directly involved in horse care at a New York racetrack and attend college in New York state.

2025 Robert J. Frankel Scholarship recipients include:

·       Nathalie Amezcua, Nassau Community College

·       Kimberly Gonzalez, Molloy University

·       Anitza Parrilla, Siena College

·       Ethan Reyes, University of Albany

“The Race for Education is honored to help carry forward the legacies of Bob Reeves and Bobby Frankel through these scholarships,” said Kevin O’Keeffe, Chair of The Race for Education Board. “They gave so much to the world of Thoroughbred racing, and it’s only appropriate that we now invest in the families who sustain and grow the industry.” We’re especially proud of our partnership with the KEEP Foundation, whose shared commitment to supporting the future of the industry makes these opportunities possible.”

This year’s scholarships were awarded to 27 students from across the Commonwealth and the nation, selected based on academic merit, leadership, financial need, and demonstrated commitment to the equine or agricultural industries.

The Race for Education and the KEEP Foundation will be hosting a special Scholarship Awards Luncheon on August 26th at Mt. Brilliant Farm to celebrate the 2025 scholarship recipients and the future of Kentucky’s equine industry.

The KEEP Foundation and The Race for Education continue to work hand in hand to advance educational opportunities and strengthen the future of Kentucky’s signature industry.

The KEEP Foundation programs and initiatives would not be possible without the support of Kentucky’s equine industry and proceeds from the KEEP Foundation’s Seattle Slew license plate.

For more information about the scholarships and other initiatives by the KEEP Foundation and the Race for Education, please visit the organizations’ websites or through the contact information below.