O’Keeffe Wins Election for Chairman of the Education Board: A New Era in Leadership

The Race for Education (RFE) has exciting news to share! They recently introduced new officers and plans for scholarship distributions in 2025. Kevin O’Keeffe is now the board chairman, with Bill Casner as vice-chairman. O’Keeffe, a Thoroughbred owner and attorney from Baltimore, has been part of the RFE board since 2012. He is joined by original board members Gay Bredin and David Ingordo. This year, they welcome Pete Aiello, a former scholarship recipient and the current track announcer at Gulfstream Park.

“I’m honored to lead The Race for Education,” O’Keeffe said. “Since 2000, we’ve given out over $7.5 million in scholarships and educational programs. Our recipients have gone on to work as trainers, veterinarians, bloodstock agents, and racetrack managers. It’s special to support students as they chase their dreams and help shape the future of the horse racing industry. We are committed to boosting our fundraising efforts and expanding opportunities for future scholars.”

Back in 2017, the RFE board considered winding down due to a drop in industry interest, and scholarships were managed by the KEEP Foundation. But things changed with generous support from donors. A notable bequest of $500,000 from Robert Reeves’ estate in 2024 significantly boosted RFE’s future plans. There’s also been a rise in strong scholarship applications from young people eager to enter the equine industry.

In response to this growing interest, co-founder and former president Elisabeth Jensen will lead new fundraising initiatives. Meanwhile, communications coordinator Brittany Bell will manage the scholarship application and award process.

In 2025, The Race for Education plans to award $85,000 in scholarships and grants. This includes two new opportunities: the Bob Reeves Memorial Scholarship for an Ohio student interested in equine studies, and the Dual-Credit Scholarship for high school students enrolled in equine programs. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year will soon be available, with deadlines announced in the near future.

The Race for Education is committed to supporting students in their educational pursuits and helping to develop the next generation of leaders in the horse racing industry.

This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.