Kayden Tanner, a third-year equine veterinary student at the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine, has been named the 2025 recipient of the $5,000 Dr. Ty Wallis Memorial Scholarship. Managed through The Foundation for the Horse, this endowed scholarship was established in 2022 in honor of its namesake.
Tanner will be formally recognized as the second recipient of this scholarship at the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ (AAEP) 71st Annual Convention in Denver on December 7, 2025.
Tanner earned this scholarship for his leadership, dedication, and vision for the future of equine veterinary medicine. Growing up around his family’s equine hospital, he developed a deep understanding of the profession and a commitment to advancing horse health and welfare. His career goals include completing an internship in equine surgery, becoming board-certified by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, and specializing in equine sports medicine surgery with a focus on rodeo and racehorses. He ultimately hopes to establish a state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility that blends advanced treatment methods with exceptional standards of care.
The Dr. Ty Wallis Memorial Scholarship recognizes a veterinary student enrolled at a college of veterinary medicine in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, or Europe for academic excellence and active participation in their AAEP student chapter. Applicants must also have the support of AAEP members and their clinical instructors.
A natural-born leader, Dr. Wallis was many things to many people: a friend, son, equine veterinarian, board-certified surgeon, mentor, pilot, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Above all else, he was a devoted husband and father to Kristen and Hattie, the loves of his life.
For more information about this program and other scholarships offered through The Foundation for the Horse, visit foundationforthehorse.org/impact/student-education.
About The Foundation for the Horse
Established in 1994, The Foundation for the Horse is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that is transforming the lives of horses through equine veterinary education and scholarships, equine medical research, natural disaster relief, and support for working equids and horses in need around the world. As the charitable arm of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), The Foundation is governed and stewarded by leading equine veterinarians and industry stakeholders. The Foundation awards more than $1 million annually in scholarships, grants, and program support to help horses worldwide. To learn more, visit foundationforthehorse.org.
