Beth Pellerito, certified in 2004. Became an instructor because: I attended school to become a special ed teacher. I was halfway to completing requirements when family responsibilities intervened. Now I’m teaching and that’s what I wanted to do. I love it!

Claudine Hildreth, certified 2002. Involved with O.A.T.S. because: Therapeutic riding gives me the chance to get my horse “fix” and is a great source of joy in my life. Being able to share my love of horses, while seeing the benefits that it brings the riders is an incredible reward. I was honored to be appointed president of the O.A.T.S. board of directors in 2006.

Marybeth Hamilton, certified in 2007. Became an instructor because: I was seeking an activity that involved children and animals. What I like best about being an instructor is seeing the riders improve and the smiles on their faces!

Nancy Heussner, certified in 1996. Involved with O.A.T.S. because: Founded the program in 1997. “I wanted to do something that united my love for human beings and horses. I had a vision of what it would be like for a child in a wheelchair to leave that chair behind and be on the back of a horse riding through the woods."

Sue Torpey, certified in 2007. Became an instructor because: I realized how much I loved coming to O.A.T.S. and seeing the wonderful smiles on the riders faces because of the pure joy that comes from riding a horse. The thing I love most is seeing the riders overcome their fears and that this therapy really helps riders with all types of disabilities.