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,” Williams said. “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.
“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,” Williams said. “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.”
Williams was presented with the award on Thursday during the dinner banquet at 26th Equine Science Society Symposium, hosted by North Carolina State University, in Asheville, N.C.
“I want to thank all of the funding sources, and those who have helped support this research in other ways,” Williams said. “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.
— Rutgers University