Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine intern Dr. Chloe Bening has been recognized as an Emerging Leader by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), a distinction awarded to young professionals making a significant impact in the equine industry.
Growing up in Texas, Dr. Bening developed a deep passion for quarter horses and the AQHA community. From competing as a youth to representing Team USA at the Youth World Cup in 2014, Dr. Bening steadily climbed the ranks within the organization. In 2023, Dr. Bening was selected for the AQHA’s prestigious LEAD program, which mentors and cultivates leadership skills in young adults within the industry. Now, as a member of the American Quarter Horse Foundation (AQHF) Research Committee, Dr. Bening helps oversee funding for vital equine initiatives.
“AQHA has been such a big part of my life,” Dr. Bening said. “I grew up in the association, and now, being able to give back and contribute to the industry that shaped me is incredibly meaningful.”
The AQHF Research Committee plays a crucial role in directing portions of the association’s proceeds toward equine research and funding projects that address issues such as navicular syndrome and genetic diseases. Dr. Bening emphasized that AQHA is more than just a horse show organization– it is dedicated to advancing the industry through education, research, and outreach.
“A lot of people think that AQHA is just an association for registering horses and hosting competitions,” Dr. Bening said. “But it’s so much more. AQHA invests in the future of the industry by supporting young professionals, funding critical research, and providing educational resources.”
After completing an undergraduate, graduate, and veterinary degree at Texas A&M University, Dr. Bening pursued an internship in private practice before joining the MSU CVM. Drawn to the college’s growing equine program under Dean Nicholas Frank’s leadership, Dr. Bening has embraced the opportunity to further develop skills in equine medicine and research.
Dr. Bening was recently selected to complete a residency at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, after which she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in equine research, focusing on laminitis and endocrine disorders. Committed to advancing equine medicine while mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals, she aspires to remain in academia as a clinician and researcher.
“I want to stay in academia, continuing research and teaching future veterinarians,” Dr. Bening said. “The equine industry has given me so much, and I want to keep paying it forward.”
MSU CVM is proud to have dedicated professionals like Dr. Bening who are making a difference in the field of equine medicine. Congratulations to her on this well-deserved recognition and her exciting plans for the future!
