MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Laramy Cummings was recently named the first recipient of a new scholarship named in honor of a long-time supporter of equine activities in Oktibbeha County.

Cummings received the $500 Mississippi Eventing and Dressage Association/Sherry Levin Memorial Scholarship. Levin died in a horse-related accident in 2001, but was a strong supporter of equine education at Mississippi State University. Levin’s friends and colleagues host an annual, nationally recognized horse show at the Mississippi Horse Park, and proceeds of the show fund the scholarship.

Cummings is a junior from Kilmichael majoring in animal and dairy science at MSU. In addition to the scholarship, Cummings received a year’s membership to the MSEDA and free auditing of the CedarWind Farm/MSEDA’s Adult Dressage Camp in June.

Dressage is a method of training that emphasizes a horse’s natural athletic ability and willingness to perform. Eventing combines dressage, cross-country and show jumping in one competition. The Mississippi Eventing and Dressage Association coordinates events in these sports throughout Mississippi.