Sonja Keating, who serves as the U.S. Equestrian Federation’s chief operating officer and legal counsel, will be the organization’s new CEO after Bill Moroney retires Dec. 31.
“Our purpose is to serve members, protect horse welfare, and uphold fairness, safety, and enjoyment,” said Keating.
“Those responsibilities will guide every decision I make. There is important work ahead, and I am excited to get started.”
After Moroney announced his retirement in June, following more than 10 years at the organization’s helm, USEF hired a search firm to help with locating his replacement.
They didn’t have to look far to find Keating, who long has been working closely with Moroney in both her roles as COO and counsel.
Discussing the selection of Sonja, who joined USEF 20 years ago, USEF President Tom O’Mara noted, “More than 100 leaders from equestrian sport, other national governing bodies, membership organizations and the commercial world were considered.
“Every candidate, from inside the Federation or outside it, went through the same interviews, assessments and references. Sonja was the strongest fit against what the role demands and what you told us you need.”