Gayle Ecker’s contributions to the equine industry have had a transformative impact over the past two decades. Her leadership at Equine Guelph has driven advancements in equine education, research, and welfare, establishing the organization as an internationally-recognized institution. Ecker’s work reflects her deep commitment to improving the lives of horses and supporting the people who care for them, both in Canada and around the world.
On Tuesday, October 22 at the Arboretum Centre, Ecker was honoured for her years of leadership at Equine Guelph. She was also recognized for inspiring a transformative bequest of approximately $7 million from the estate of Donna Moore designated for the centre’s operations and equine research.
At the core of Ecker’s success is her ability to recognize the evolving needs of the equine industry and respond with innovative solutions. Long before online education became a standard offering, Ecker pioneered the development of equine science programs that could be accessed digitally. “At the time, no one had anywhere in the world had a program like this,” recalled Dr. Moira Gunn, who has been Equine Guelph’s Advisory Council co-chair since 2004. Gun noted that prior to Ecker’s digital courses in 2003, students were mailed taped videos to be played on a VCR. “In 2003 there were four courses available; by 2008, eleven courses were on offer, everything from equine behaviour to genetics.”
Ecker’s leadership extended beyond academics into youth engagement. One of her hallmark achievements was the creation of EquiMania, a program designed to inspire young people to explore careers in the equine sector. Gunn shared that the program became a huge success, attracting 60,000 visitors at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, including 20,000 youth. It even earned an invitation to the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky, the only time a Canadian educational program was featured at this prestigious event. “EquiMania was not just an exhibit; it was an active participant program that sparked enthusiasm for horses among people of all ages,” Gunn remarked.
Jim Whelan, an industry veteran and a member of Equine Guelph’s Advisory Council, praised Ecker’s dedication. “She has been the most dedicated person I’ve run across when it comes to people, education, horses, and agriculture.” Whelan stressed the importance of Ecker’s work in building relationships within the equine community: “It wouldn’t matter what the challenge was — Gayle would always find a way to make it happen.”
The impact of Ecker’s work is further reflected in the collaborative spirit she fostered within the equine industry. U of G Board of Governors chair Nancy Brown Andison remarked, “Gayle’s leadership has put the University of Guelph on the map internationally.” She described Ecker as a unifying force who brought together veterinarians, researchers, horse owners, and industry leaders under a shared vision of improving equine welfare.
The event also marked the announcement of a significant donation that will carry Ecker’s legacy forward. Dean Leifso, a lawyer from Hanover, Ontario and past chair of Standardbred Canada, among other groups, announced the creation of the Donna Moore Trust, a $7 million fund supporting equine research. “It only makes sense to provide the estate to a world-class equine research institution that was in Donna’s backyard,” Dean said, reflecting on how Warner’s passion for horses aligned with Ecker’s mission at Equine Guelph. The income from those funds will be used to invest in underfunded areas of research, including behaviour and welfare.
“This bequest has been transformational,” said Ecker. “Whereas the gift to create the E.P. Taylor Equine Research Fund focused on the health and performance of racehorses, the Donna Moore estate offers us the opportunity to support much broader equine health and welfare inquiries. Additionally, the support for operations frees me to work on new initiatives in the education and communications space.”
Throughout her career, Ecker’s ability to anticipate industry trends and respond with practical solutions has positioned Equine Guelph as a global leader in equine education and research. “For over 20 years, horse owners in Ontario, throughout Canada, and around the world have greatly benefited from her expertise,” Whelan remarked, underscoring the widespread influence of Ecker’s work.
Ecker’s lasting achievement is not only in what she built, but also in the inspiration she has provided to future generations of equine professionals. “It is an honour to celebrate someone who has had such a profound impact and whose legacy will continue for years to come,” said Brown Andison, reflecting the sentiment shared by everyone at the event.
Gayle Ecker’s journey exemplifies the power of visionary leadership. Her dedication to horses, education, and community has transformed Equine Guelph into a beacon of excellence. As Whelan put it, “She has worked all over Canada and the US to share her great thoughts and programs.” Ecker’s influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the equine industry, inspiring others to follow her path and build upon the strong foundation she has established.
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