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Kristen Bagdasarian Receives President’s Award

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February 23, 2026: Lexington, KY – The American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association (ASHBA) proudly recognized Kristen Bagdasarian as the recipient of the 2025 President’s Award, presented at the Saddlebred Celebrations Luncheon during the 2026 ASHBA Annual Convention.


The President’s Award is reserved for an individual whose service reflects extraordinary commitment, leadership, and lasting impact on the Association. This distinction honors someone who not only accepts responsibility, but actively does the work, shows up consistently, and builds systems and teams that make progress possible.


Bagdasarian was recognized for her exceptional leadership during her three-year tenure as Chair of the Registry Council, one of the most complex and demanding areas of the organization. In that role, she oversaw and supported multiple committees, including Equine Welfare, Half Saddlebred, Prize Programs, Breeders, Historical, and Outreach, each with distinct responsibilities, timelines, and stakeholders. Throughout her term, she brought focus, consistency, and accountability across all areas under her leadership.


Known for her hands-on approach, Bagdasarian is widely respected as a leader who engages deeply in the work itself. She prepares thoroughly, asks thoughtful questions, follows issues through to resolution, and maintains clear expectations while empowering volunteers and committee leaders to succeed. Her leadership strengthened the effectiveness of the Registry Council and positioned it to better serve both the breed and the membership.


“Kristen represents the kind of leader every organization hopes to have,” said Smith Lilly, Immediate Past President of ASHBA, who presented the award. “She does the work, supports her team, and leads with both discipline and purpose. Her impact has strengthened this Association in ways that will continue to be felt well into the future.”


Through her dedication, work ethic, and steady leadership, Bagdasarian exemplifies the highest standard of service and commitment to the American Saddlebred community.