Samantha Black Appointed Farm Manager at MSU Horse Teaching and Research Center

Michigan State University (MSU) has appointed 2019 alumna Samantha Black as the new farm manager of the MSU Horse Teaching and Research Center. She succeeds Paula Hitzler, who retired after 36 years in the role.

Samantha Black has a lifelong background in working with horses, having grown up on farms near Fowlerville, Michigan. Her experience includes horse training, breeding, and care. Prior to her new position, she spent six years at the Saginaw Valley Equine Clinic in Saginaw, where she managed the sports medicine and horse show departments. During her tenure, she completed an equine certificate program from the American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians and became a licensed veterinary nurse.

Black credits her mentors, including her parents and professionals from Huss Performance Horses, as well as her education at MSU for preparing her for this role. "Coming back to my alma mater and having the opportunity to represent MSU through this position is incredibly meaningful to me," she noted. Black emphasized the significance of hands-on experiences and mentorship in shaping careers, expressing her commitment to support current students in their journeys.

Quentin Tyler, director of MSU Extension and interim director of MSU AgBioResearch, expressed confidence in Black's ability to lead the center, acknowledging the strong foundation established by Hitzler. "Samantha brings a strong combination of hands-on horse experience, veterinary knowledge and an understanding of MSU that will serve the MSU Horse Teaching and Research Center well," he said.

Located at 3327 Collins Road in Lansing, Michigan, the MSU Horse Teaching and Research Center aims to educate future equestrians and address industry challenges through applied scientific research. The center is also known for one of the oldest continuous Arabian horse breeding programs in the United States.

Samantha Black looks forward to fostering relationships within the MSU and Michigan horse communities while ensuring the animals receive the high standard of care expected from the program. "I want people to know that the horses and students will always be at the heart of what I do," she stated.