During its October 2026 meeting, the Asbury University Board of Trustees unanimously approved naming the University’s equine program the Elizabeth Pflaumer Simon Department of Equine Studies, recognizing Dr. Elizabeth Pflaumer ’64 Simon for her transformational generosity and extraordinary investment in the future of the program.
A lifelong appreciation for Asbury and a deep love for horses have inspired Dr. Simon’s commitment to the University’s equine program. She quickly recognized the opportunity to make a meaningful difference, not only in strengthening the program but also in shaping the lives of students.
Elizabeth has a deep appreciation for Asbury and a heart for the transformational impact of the equine program."
Dr. Simon’s passion extends beyond horses to the opportunity to help young people develop confidence, recognize their God-given worth, and discover their identity in Christ.
“This program brings horses, people, and God together to change lives,” said Dr. Simon. “Asbury changed my life, and I know this Christ-centered program will also have a lasting impact on students. I am so blessed that God has provided me the opportunity to make this gift.”
Her generosity is already creating significant opportunities for growth and excellence throughout the program. Dr. Simon has provided the majority of the funding for a new equine classroom facility, which will be named the Mama Jim Ranch House, with its classrooms named in her honor. Her support has also made possible several critical capital improvements and equipment purchases, including a new farm truck, a 30-by-90-foot hoop barn for hay storage, and the farm manager’s first heated workshop, along with numerous other enhancements to the equine facilities and operations.
In addition to these investments in facilities and resources, Dr. Simon established an endowed scholarship to assist equine students with demonstrated financial need, creating a legacy of educational opportunity that will benefit students for generations to come.
Dr. Simon’s extraordinary generosity is elevating our equine program to new levels of excellence."
Dr. Johnson continues: “Her investment is strengthening the resources, facilities, and learning opportunities available to our students while helping us further advance the distinctive mission of this program.”
Dr. Simon’s remarkable kindness is transforming both the quality of our equine program and the opportunities available to students who choose Asbury."
Dr. Brown continues: “Her generosity is helping us provide an exceptional Christ-centered education while making that education more accessible and affordable for future generations of students. We are deeply grateful for her faithfulness and vision.”
A member of the Asbury Vikings Class of 1964, Dr. Simon treasures her years at the University, where she participated on the speech and debate team and was actively involved in the music program. Following graduation, she spent two years teaching in the public school system before continuing her education at The Ohio State University. She earned a master’s degree in Speech Pathology in 1968 and later completed a Ph.D. in Psychology.
Throughout her life, Dr. Simon has exemplified the values of Christian faith, lifelong learning, and service that have long characterized the Asbury community. Alongside her husband, Gene Snodgrass, she has maintained a meaningful connection to her alma mater and continued to support its mission of preparing men and women for lives of service to Christ and the world.
Through the naming of the Elizabeth Pflaumer Simon Department of Equine Studies, Asbury University honors not only Dr. Simon’s extraordinary generosity but also her enduring belief in the power of a Christ-centered education to transform lives. Her investment will strengthen the equine program and create opportunities for generations of students to experience the life-changing intersection of horses, people, and faith.
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