In Memory of Cecile Hetzel Dunn
It is with heartfelt sadness that the Arabian Horse community mourns the passing of Cecile Hetzel Dunn. Cecile’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of our breed, and her impact on this community and the greater equestrian world cannot be overstated.
A founding member of AHA and one of the first individuals to be awarded a judge’s card, Cecile was a passionate advocate for the Arabian horse for decades. In roles as a steward, judge, mentor, and visionary, she helped establish the Education Evaluation Commission and served on numerous committees that continue to uphold the mission and integrity of AHA to this day.
Her contributions extended far beyond our Association. A lifelong exhibitor across multiple breeds and a respected figure within the United States Equestrian Federation, Cecile served on many key committees including the Licensed Officials Committee, where I had the personal honor of serving alongside her. Her leadership and insight helped shape the standards of excellence that guide our sport.
During her career, Cecile judged Saddlebreds, Saddle Seat, Arabians, National Show Horses, Paso Finos, Morgans, Welsh Ponies, Walking Horses, and Hackney and Roadster horses. Her career covered every ring in the Saddlebred world from Three Gaited, Five Gaited to Fine Harness.
In recognition of her extraordinary service and devotion, Cecile was honored with the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award during the 2024 US Equestrian Annual Meeting in Louisville, Kentucky. This prestigious award is given to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to horses and the advancement of equestrian sport. Her list of accomplishments also include: the Sally Wheeler President’s Award from USEF, the Arabian Professional and Amateur Association Horsewoman of The Year, Arabian Professional and Amateur Association Judge Of the Year, and the Peter Cameron Award.
Cecile’s honesty, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to education and fairness made her a cornerstone of our community. On a personal note, she was not only a mentor and friend to me, but also one of my most loyal supporters throughout my journey from Commissioner to Executive Director. Her integrity, both in and out of the ring, is something we should all strive to emulate.
Daughter Martha Rattner wrote of her mother, "We all know how my mother can command a room and defend a cause. If you were a student under her direction, you had an incredible education. If you served on a committee with her, you witnessed her boundless energy and the dedication that had you feeling like doing the same. If you were her child, you shared with her the entire equine community. You learned if you wanted something you were going to work hard to get it. You didn’t talk back, and you always showed respect to others who did the same.
If you are a friend of Cecile Hetzel Dunn, you have the best of who she is, was and always will be. Loyalty by far has always been my mother’s strongest attribute. So, to those who were given much, much was given in return.
Scarlett O’Hara, Queen Elizabeth and Bette Davis, will save the seat next to them for you, because the Academy and the Peter Cameron Award winner truly deserves the honor."
Our thoughts are with her daughters, Martha Murdoch Rattner and MerriMurdoch-Krehl, and all who were molded by Cecile’s grace, strength, and generosity of spirit.
Stan Morey, AHDF Director and AHA Executive Director
