New Brunswick, N.J. – Dr. Carey A. Williams, Associate Extension Specialist in the Department of Animal Sciences at Rutgers University, and Associate Director of Extension at the Rutgers Equine Science Center, was awarded The American Feed Industry Association’s Award for Equine Nutrition Research.
The award is it is used to help stimulate excellence in equine nutrition research, and is given every other year in combination with the Equine Science Society Symposium.
“I am honored to be recognized along with all of the equine nutrition researchers that I have looked up to for so many years” exclaims Williams. “Many of those who have been honored in the past I have cited numerous times in my research, to be included with this group of highly respected individuals is very humbling. It is exciting to think that I have reached the point in my career where I am now recognized along with them!”
Williams joined Rutgers University in 2003 as its Equine Extension Specialist and the Associate Director of Extension at the Equine Science Center, taking an active role in teaching, conducting research, and working with the equine and academic communities to ensure the viability of the horse industry in New Jersey.
Dr. Carey A. Williams works closely with the New Jersey 4-H Horse Program as a part of her job as the Equine Extension Specialist. Pictured above, Williams speaks about equine anatomy with the members of the “Hearts & Horseshoes” chapter during the Equine Science Center’s Summer Showcase.
“My research has taken on two main focus areas, with one being antioxidant supplementation and exercise performance, but more recently metabolism of the grazing horse and how it differs based on pasture management scenarios,” states Williams. “I feel like this is one of the strengths of my program, this multi-faceted focus. I’ve been internationally recognized for my antioxidant work, and now have become one of the national experts in the pasture research.”
Dr. Carey A. Williams, pictured center left with her award, is joined by Rutgers University graduate students, alumni, and staff during the Equine Science Society (ESS) Symposium banquet. Williams’ graduate student, PhD candidate Jennifer Weinert who is pictured center, also received an award having placed first in the Production and Management Graduate Student competition.
Williams was presented with the award on Thursday during the dinner banquet at 26th Equine Science Society (ESS) Symposium, hosted by North Carolina State University, in Asheville, North Carolina.
“I want to thank all of the funding sources, and those who have helped support this research in other ways,” says Williams. “From my graduate students to the undergraduate research students, all of the Rutgers University Farm staff, and colleagues across the country who have helped me in some way, I can’t possibly thank you enough for the support that you have provided. I am truly honored to be recognized for excellence and equine nutrition research.
Williams’ other accomplishments include her work as the Equine Extension Specialist has included the creation the Ryders Lane Environmental Best Management Practices Demonstration Horse Farm, the first of its type in the nation. At this facility she conducts research to develop best management practices, which can then be used to teach horse owners how to manage their horse farm while being an environmental steward of the land.
Williams has been author or co-author of over 40 scientific journal articles in her field of expertise. She has also authored eight book chapters on antioxidants, oxidative stress, supplements, or pasture management for horses.
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Dr. Carey A. Williams
Williams received her B.S. degree equine science from Colorado State University, and her master’s and doctorate degrees in Animal and Poultry Sciences (with an emphasis on equine nutrition and exercise physiology) from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. At Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Williams maintains a herd of Standardbred horses for nutrition, exercise, and pasture research. Her exercise work dealt with strategies for decreasing the stress of intense exercise through nutritional modification and antioxidant supplementation. Her nutrition and pasture work has focused on different grazing systems and how they impact horse health and the environment.
American Feed Industry Association (AFIA)
The American Feed Industry Association, based in Arlington, Va., is the world’s largest organization devoted exclusively to representing the business, legislative and regulatory interests of the U.S. animal food industry and its suppliers. Founded in 1909 as the American Feed Manufacturers Association, the name changed to the American Feed Industry Association in 1985 to recognize the importance of all types of companies involved in the feed manufacturing industry – from commercial and integrated feed manufacturers, to ingredient suppliers, pet food manufacturers and equipment manufacturers. AFIA is also the recognized leader on international industry developments and holds membership in the International Feed Industry Federation.