We are pleased to announce that
Michelle Persian
has been named Director of Agility for the American Kennel Club.
Michelle brings extensive experience in AKC Agility to this role. Most recently, she served as an AKC Agility Field Representative, where she worked closely with clubs to support successful event execution, mentored judges, reviewed course designs, contributed to judge education, and helped plan and manage the AKC’s premier national agility events. Prior to joining the AKC, Michelle was an accomplished AKC agility judge.
Michelle began her competitive agility journey in 2002 with her English Springer Spaniel, Noodle. Together, they achieved the prestigious Master Agility Champion (MACH) title. She later found national success with her Border Collie, Bria, winning the 12-inch Preferred Challengers Round at the 2018 AKC National Agility Championship.
Before joining the AKC, Michelle founded and served as Executive Director of a nonprofit youth orchestra organization, where she oversaw operations, budgeting, staffing, and both domestic and international performance tours. She also brings more than 35 years of experience as a music educator, conductor, and instructor. Many of you may also recognize Michelle from her inspiring performances of the National Anthem on violin before the opening of AKC National Agility events.
As Director, Michelle will lead the largest agility program in the world. She is passionate about working collaboratively with exhibitors, clubs, judges, trial secretaries, volunteers, and AKC staff to build upon the program’s strong foundation, foster continued growth, and ensure that AKC Agility remains a rewarding and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Please join us in congratulating Michelle on her new role and welcoming her to the leadership of this outstanding sport. I know she will continue to serve the agility community with the same dedication, expertise, and enthusiasm that have defined her career.
7/22/2025 – Manage Class Function
This is to announce an enhancement to Agility online plans that makes it easier for clubs to manage their events. The new Manage Classes function found on the Online Event Management page can be found on the home page (
https://www.apps.akc.org/apps/eventplans/index.cfmas
) as seen below:
The new function will allow clubs to add and remove classes such as Time2Beat, FAST, Premier, etc. to previously corresponding events instead of having to email/contact the Agility department. Instructions on how this function works can be found where it says ‘View Help Guide’ once you click on the Manage Classes page:
If you are having any problems please email at
AgilityOnlineApp@akc.org
.
May 23, 2025 –
The following revisions in our program are designed to help meet the growing need for judges. This proposal will allow provisional judges more latitude in accepting judging assignments. All assignments are subject to scheduling for Field Rep supervision/attendance. Please be reminded that schedules are established well in advance, void of holidays, and those adjacent to/during AKC events.
AKC Provisional Agility Judge Progression LEVEL 1 – FIRST TWO (2) ASSIGNMENTS
May accept Novice/Open, FAST and T2B as a sole judge
Eligible to judge ALL levels through Ex/M & Premier (exception ISC) when splitting an assignment with another fully approved judge (if all levels are included).
350 run max per day total between two judges, if one ring
TWO-day maximum assignment
One judging assignment in a 30-day period
LEVEL 2 – OTHER ASSIGNMENTS
May accept all levels – individual or joint (no ISC until full status)
Eligible for 3-day assignment (could be solo or multiple judges)
