
Dennie Holmbeck Memorial Scholarship

February 04, 1954 – December 31, 2019
Dennie Holmbeck Memorial Scholarship
In loving memory of our dear friend, Dennie Holmbeck
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Heart and Hooves Horsemanship is honored to award several scholarships for the 2026
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​Dennie was more than just the first participant at Heart & Hooves Horseamsnhip Clinic in 2014—she was a steady source of encouragement, a true believer in the vision, and one of my dearest friends.
From the very beginning, Dennie showed up with an open heart, a willing spirit, and a genuine desire to help others.
She believed deeply in people, in horses, and in the power of kindness and connection.
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Dennie embodied the true HEART of the Heart & Hooves family. She was always willing to lend a hand, cheer someone on,
and quietly support those around her. Her presence made people feel seen, welcomed, and encouraged.
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Her beloved horse, Pecos, continues to be an active and cherished part of the Heart & Hooves family
—a living reminder of Dennie’s love for horses and the legacy she left behind.
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Dennie’s gentle strength, compassion, and joy for chasing dreams reflect everything Heart & Hooves Horsemanship stands for.
Her legacy lives on through this scholarship, inspiring us to support one another, lift each other up, and continue growing—together.
Scholarship Details (2026)
Application Deadline: April 1, 2026
Honoree Notification: April 15, 2026
Submission Email: hearthooveshorsemanship@yahoo.com
Application Requirements
Please include the following in your submission:
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Your name and contact information
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What horsemanship means to you
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Your 2026 horsemanship goals
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Why you should be selected
How Funds Are Raised and Awarded
At Heart & Hooves, we believe the best way to honor Dennie’s compassionate legacy is by giving back. Francis and I personally fund two $250 scholarships, and together with donations made in Dennie’s honor, we are able to expand this impact even further.
Last year, we were honored to award a total of $2,770.00 in scholarships, helping individuals and families continue their horsemanship journey—opening doors to education, building confidence, and
creating meaningful partnerships between horses and people.
Every dollar donated, no matter the size, helps carry Dennie’s spirit forward—one horse, one rider, one partnership at a time.
Donation Options
Venmo: @Michelle-Jerry-1
Cash or Check: Payable to Heart and Hooves Horsemanship
Credit Card via Website: Donations available in $10 increments (adjust quantity to increase the donation amount)
Thank You to Our 2023–2026 Donors
2023
Michelle and Francis Jerry: $500
Sarah Jo Erickson: $15
2024
Michelle and Francis Jerry: $500
Dennie Holmbeck Family: $250
Mike and Barb Wokasch: $500
Craig and Cindy Bender: $1,000
2025
Michelle and Francis Jerry: $500
Mike and Barb Wokasch: $500
Karin Kokesch: $1,000
Theresa Shanoff: $20
Katie Heaton: $500
Lynne Pernsteiner: $250
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2026
Michelle and Francis Jerry: $500
Craig and Cindy Bender $1000
Mike and Barb Wokasch $500
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Thank you to everyone who continues to give in Dennie’s honor.
Your generosity makes a real difference and allows us to support the Heart & Hooves family in meaningful ways.
Together, we will keep chasing dreams, spreading kindness, and honoring Dennie’s legacy—today and always.

“Dennie came into my life at exactly the moment I needed her. She believed in me when I was still learning to believe in myself, offering unwavering support, encouragement, and inspiration to keep going. Her faith in God was a steady source of strength, hope, and kindness that she shared so freely with others. Though she left this world far too soon, I think of her every day. Her spirit lives on in my heart and within the Heart & Hooves family, and I will forever be grateful for her love, her faith, and the way she helped me keep going.
With a grateful heart, - Michelle

