Berkeley Woman Named One of JFK University's Alumni of the Year

Tonya Johnston, a sports psychologist who specializes in working with equestrians, is one of the eight recipients of John F. Kennedy University's 2013 Alumni of the Year Awards, according to a press release from the university.

The alumni represent the University’s three colleges and were selected for their distinguished service to their profession and community. They will be recognized at the University’s Alumni Day on Saturday, March 2.

Here's what the release said about Johnston's selection for the award:

"Johnston, MA ’93, is a graduate of the University’s sport psychology program.

"For the past 20 years, Johnston has specialized in working equestrian athletes from a wide range of disciplines, including hunter/jumper, three-day eventing, and dressage.

"Johnston has presented at the national conventions for the U.S. Dressage Federation and the U.S. Eventing Association, as well at the national conference for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

Johnston’s book, Inside Your Ride: Mental Skills for Being Happy and Successful with Your Horse, was published in May 2012. She frequently contributes to a wide variety of equestrian websites and magazines, and travels to give mental skills clinics to universities and private barns throughout the country.

JFK University, founded in 1964, has campuses in Pleasant Hill, Berkeley and San Jose. For more information, see the university's website www.jfku.edu/