by Tiffany J. Cody, public relations specialist, Rutgers Equine Science Center

New Brunswick, NJ — Karyn Malinowski, Director of the Rutgers Equine Science Center and professor of animal sciences, recently made a personal gift of $100,000 to support new initiatives, programs, and better horse care through research and education as the Center celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2011.

“I am extremely pleased to be able to make a gift and commitment to the Equine Science Center in recognition of research-based educational programming in the area of horse health and well-being,” said Malinowski. “The timing of this gift intentionally coincides with the university’s capital campaign and serves as a challenge to all who have benefitted from the Center’s resources, including alumni, students, and horse owners and equine enthusiasts worldwide. No gift is too small as it will contribute to the future sustainability of the Equine Science Center.”

The gift announcement came during the annual Equine Science Update on Dec. 14. Malinowski presented an oversized check to the Executive Dean of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Rutgers, Robert M. Goodman; Chairwoman of the Rutgers University Board for Equine Advancement, Sandy Denarski; and Associate Dean of Development for the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Kelly Watts. The donation, which is a leading gift among faculty and staff, was accepted on behalf of the Rutgers University Foundation.

Malinowski played a critical role in conceptualizing and developing the equine studies program within the department of animal sciences. In 2001, the Rutgers University Board of Governors recognized the excellent teaching, outreach, and extension components of the equine studies program by declaring the Rutgers Equine Science Center an official center of the university. Under Malinowski’s leadership, the Center has risen to statewide and national prominence, and is recognized as a primary resource for sound equine research and education.

Malinowski earned her bachelor’s and master’s degree in animal science, and a doctorate in zoology at Rutgers University and was the first female equine extension specialist in the United States. A faculty member at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences since 1978, Malinowski has served in various roles including interim chair of the extension specialists department, dean of outreach and extension programs and senior associate director for extension at the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. In 2010, Malinowski was awarded the Governors Trophy and honored as Horseperson of the Year by the New Jersey Department of Agriculture.