“I have had the pleasure of getting to know Daphne over the course of her junior career. Not only is she exceptionally hard-working, she is also the leader for other juniors at her barn and assists her trainer with all aspects of their program, particularly at shows. One of Daphne’s best traits is her willingness to catch-ride and change or finesse her ride based on the animal. She understands that each horse is different and may require different aids or asks, which is exceptionally valuable in the NCEA structure. Her effectiveness, horsemanship, leadership, and kindness will make her a wonderful addition to any equestrian team.”
~ Kara Unger (Fergusson), Cornerstone Equestrian, Assistant Trainer, Baylor Equestrian Hunt Seat 2008-2012
“I am writing on behalf of my equestrian student, Daphne Stavig, to provide my enthusiastic recommendation of her as a candidate for your program.
I have had the pleasure of training Daphne for nearly ten years as a student in my program. I have witnessed her growth and seamless transition from a young child to the independent young woman she is today. Daphne has always been a committed member of my riding program. Starting at a young age she exemplified the type of student every trainer wants to have. She dedicated herself to not only bettering herself as a rider but in all areas equine related. This extremely coachable young lady takes the extra step every time. She’s always quick to help exercise extra horses, assist with any daily care of the animals, and jump in where necessary to complete many of the other grueling tasks associated with operating an equestrian facility.
Daphne is an absolute asset to any program. Her riding skills have blossomed this year while competing in the higher level equitation divisions, medal classes, and international hunter derbies. She consistently took home top placings, qualified and competed at the northwest Maclay lay regional finals. She is well versed and quite talented at riding all types of horses. She can get the best out of each animal more easily then most young riders. I am proud of the rider she has become and the work ethic that comes with her talent.
Daphne is an intelligent, bright young woman. I am quite often humbled by her ability to have a conversation with just about anyone. She always has a cheerful spirit and greets each member in our community with so much kindness. She takes the time to speak with her barn-mates to check in on each individual. I find her true character stands out most at competitions. I always see her congratulating fellow riders, connecting with them about their performances. It is a gift to be so compassionate about others.
Daphne has most certainly been faced with adversity over the years in my program. But like in all challenges she encounters in life she consistently rises to the occasion and meets them head on. She is strong willed and determined to get things done correctly. She is the embodiment of a well respected horsewomen.
Daphne is a perfect and well deserving candidate for any position in your program. She always brings with her a steadfast attitude to learn and grow while quietly challenging the people around her. The dedication she has continuously exemplified as a young adult will without a doubt set her on a successful path and she will most certainly make impactful contributions to the equestrian sports. I stand behind her as a worthy candidate.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions or requests for additional input.”
~ Kelly Bowman, United Equine LLC, Estacada, OR
“Daphne stands out!
Daphne is a fantastic person and an incredible horsewoman who is very confident and ambitious with big goals. She likes to challenge herself, even if mistakes are made, knowing this will help her grow. These traits paid off with her winning medals in big equitation classes – including qualifying for the Maclay finals. All the while keeping a positive and professional attitude.
I have had the privilege of coaching Daphne at several premiere shows over the last two years. She has always taken care of her horse – no grooms. Her horse always comes first. Any team would be very lucky to have her. She will always help and support her teammates with a smile on her face.
Great team player!”
~ Linda Worley, Cornerstone Equestrian, LLC.. Portland, OR
“I am pleased to write this letter of reference for Daphne Stavig. I had the pleasure of teaching Daphne in Pre-AP English 10. I have come to know Daphne as an exemplary student who embodies curiosity, compassion, and dedication. She is a very hard working student and one of the best self-advocates I have ever had the pleasure to teach.
Academically, Daphne impressed me with her consistently positive attitude and determination to master the content and skills in Pre-AP English 10. She not only received feedback well, she sought it independently, both from myself and from peers. She was an insightful reader and tackled difficult text willingly, often reaching interpretations well above her year in school. As an example, she wrote about the Haitian American writer, Edwidge Danticat, contrasting the silencing of Haitians throughout history with the way Danticat became “the voice her ancestors never had” through the medium of storytelling.
Daphne is also a team player. In the classroom, she consciously makes everyone feel welcome, no matter what social group they may belong to, no matter what ability level they have. Her serious approach to her education encourages others to take the same care for their own learning. Her willingness to ask for help, and to ask for accommodations around writing (handwriting is difficult, so Daphne always used a tablet), broke the ice for other students. They in turn were much more willing to open up to peers and to me, and to seek help and feedback when needed.
If the love of learning, community spirit, and dedication that I witnessed as her teacher are any indication of how she will perform in her post-secondary educational career, Daphne will be an outstanding addition to any collegiate community. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected], or at 503-287-0428.”
~ Dawn M. Patrick, English Department, Adrienne C. Nelson High School, Happy Valley, OR