05/27/2026
When the EQUUS Foundation was founded in 2002, Dr. Richard Mitchell of Fairfield Equine Associates joined our Board of Directors and for 23 years served as an enthusiastic and passionate advocate for the work of EQUUS Foundation in protecting America's horses and advancing the horse-human bond. We are thrilled to celebrate his receiving the prestigious Hickey Award from the American Horse Council— adding to the many honors recognizing his extraordinary career, including the AAEP Distinguished Life Member Award presented in 2022 (pictured here during the AAEP presentation).
Thank you to our friends at the American Horse Council for recognizing Dr. Mitchell's extraordinary service:
Named in honor of former AHC President James J. Hickey Jr., the Hickey Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering support for both the horse industry and the American Horse Council.
This year’s honoree, Dr. Richard D. Mitchell, DVM, MRCVS, DACVSMR, has devoted his life and career to advancing equine health and welfare. A retired partner of Fairfield Equine Associates, past chair of the Foundation for the Horse, and longtime leader serving on numerous AAEP, USEF, and AHC committees and boards, Dr. Mitchell’s impact on the equine community has been profound and far-reaching.
“I am both honored and humbled to be selected for this award. The horse has been my life, and it has given me so much! I am truly appreciative of having the privilege of caring for these wonderful animals throughout my career.” — Dr. Richard Mitchell
Congratulations, Dr. Mitchell, and thank you for your extraordinary leadership, service, and lifelong dedication to the welfare of horses.