For Jan Decker, horses have truly been a lifelong passion, and through her involvement as a trainer, judge, show manager, and member of governance, she has helped to build the pathway for others to enjoy their own equestrian journey. She became involved with the Arabian breed 70 years ago when she acquired her first Half-Arabian horse. In 1969, she and her husband launched their stable where they continue to board horses to this day. In the facility’s show-ring heyday, Decker coached Arabian horses and their riders at the national championship level in disciplines ranging from pleasure driving to side saddle to western pleasure.

Her involvement in the industry expanded as she took on roles as a show organizer and licensed official, and in 2024, she was recognized by the Arabian Horse Association for serving more than 50 years as a licensed judge. Decker’s list of volunteer roles in equestrian governance is too long to list in full, but includes numerous local club and regional offices, committee leadership through the AHA and US Equestrian, and more than 20 years as the Secretary of the Arabian Horse Association.

As a mentor to new judges and officials, a leader in establishing and improving equestrian sport governance, and most of all, an enthusiastic promoter of the horse, Jan Decker’s impact has been immeasurable over her many years of involvement and will continue on for decades to come.

Decker was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by US Equestrian in 2025.