Bonnie Johnson
May 26, 2025
Media ArticleErika Berg, associate professor of animal sciences at North Dakota State University (NDSU), is selected for the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program. She will travel to Iceland in spring 2026 to teach and develop a global curriculum on equine-assisted services at Hólar University.
Berg is excited to work with international faculty and students and to explore the role of the Icelandic horse in equine-assisted services. “I honestly could not be more excited to collaborate with others who share a love for this field,” says Berg. “This award will not only elevate the equine programming we offer at NDSU for veterans and individuals living with disabilities — it will also facilitate the development of global partnerships.”
Since joining NDSU in 2008, Berg has helped lead the growth of equine-related programs. In 2017, she founded Bison Strides, which provides equine-assisted services for people with physical, cognitive, and mental health needs. The program also helps NDSU students apply classroom knowledge through hands-on learning.
“Greater self-confidence, increased strength and balance and improved emotional regulation are all demonstrated outcomes of horse-human interventions. Elucidating the mechanisms of action at play is essential to deepen our understanding of the physiological processes involved,” she explains.
Berg is one of over 800 U.S. citizens selected to teach, research, or share knowledge abroad through the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program. Recipients are chosen based on their professional achievements, service, and leadership.
“Educating future practitioners on best practices in the field is critical for optimal outcomes,” she adds.
Fulbright is a program by the U.S. Department of State and works with over 160 countries. Berg’s award is supported in part by Fulbright Iceland and administered in the U.S. by the Institute of International Education.
Photo by : north-dakota-state-university
