Annapolis, MD, December 19, 2024– The Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) Board of Directors is excited to announce the appointment of Susan Harada as Executive Director. A dedicated and key member of the WIHS team for several years, Sue brings a wealth of experience to her new role.
Sue has been serving as the Director of Finance for WIHS since 2020. On May 1, she took on the role of Interim Executive Director. In both of her positions, Sue worked with unwavering enthusiasm to build and lead a strong, dedicated team. Thanks to her passion, leadership and commitment, this year’s event was a tremendous success, further cementing Sue’s invaluable contributions to the Washington International Horse Show.
Sue has a lifelong passion for helping individuals and businesses improve their financial health. Her introduction to the equestrian industry came in 2004 when she was hired as chief Financial Officer for the Capital Challenge Horse Show.
In 2017, she founded Equine Financial, a firm dedicated to providing bookkeeping and business consulting services to equestrian-related businesses.
In 2020, Sue joined WIHS as the Director of Finance, where she successfully guided the organization through two challenging years in Tryon during COVID followed by its transition to The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD. Sue resides in Annapolis, MD, with her husband and their two active boys.
“Sue has proven her ability to lead and manage the show not only from a financial perspective which is critical, but also from an operational and team leadership standpoint. She has been instrumental this year, in building positive and productive relationships with the state, county, WIHS BOD, and sponsors resulting in a successful event on many levels. She is already championing important improvements for next year’s event working with key stakeholders and the staff. We applaud Sue and look forward to all that is to come for WIHS in the future under her leadership.” said, Vicki Lowell, President, WIHS.
The entire WIHS team is looking forward to the 67th WIHS returning to The Show Place Arena in Prince George’s County, just outside downtown Washington, D.C., from October 20 to 26.
During the 66th WIHS, Susan Harada was named this year’s Rex Reed Service Award recipient.
Photo credit, Shawn McMillen Photography.
