Team Update
We are excited to announce some new members of our team!
First up, welcome Maiah!
Maiah is our new Scheduling Coordinator. She has enjoyed being a part of the Forward Stride community for many years, starting out in the Riding Program in high school. After getting a degree in Zoology, Maiah came back to join the Forward Stride team helping with administrative tasks and assisting with the volunteer program. Maiah loves working with horses, volunteers, and clients, and keeping things organized!
Second up, welcome Emily!
Emily is a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor fulfilling her dream of living in the Pacific Northwest after moving here from Lexington, Kentucky. With a Bachelors’ degree in Writing, Rhetoric, and Communications and a minor in Digital Arts and Media, Emily loves finding new and creative ways to teach riding skills to each of her students. Along with instructing, Emily is excited to put her creative communications and marketing skills to use as part of the Forward Stride Marketing and Development team!
Third, congratulations to Heather as she goes back to school!
Heather will be staying with us in her role as Development Coordinator while she pursues a BFA in Graphic Design at Portland State University. She is excited for this opportunity to hone skills that she first gained here at Forward Stride. She is still your contact for all things fundraising-related, but she will be reducing her hours so she appreciates your patience!
Fourth, congratulations to Marci who is taking on the role of Vaulting Program Coordinator and Grant Writer!
Marci, coach for Forward Stride’s own competitive vaulting team the Flying Star Vaulters and National Champion vaulter herself, will be taking the helm of the Vaulting Program at Forward Stride. She is taking over for Mackenzie who is transitioning into the role of Riding Program Coordinator, allowing Patricia to prepare for retirement! Marci also has a background in grant writing and is excited to bring her skills here as she takes over the role of Grant Writer from Heather.
Lastly, congratulations to Anna who is taking on the role of Rehabilitation Services Administrative Assistant in addition to her role as Barn Coordinator!
Anna will be assisting Sheila, Director of Rehabilitation Services, to keep things running smoothly and to help the program continue to grow. She has already proven to be a valuable member of the Rehabilitation Services team!
In our Clinical Services, we are also pleased to welcome Diana and Corey as Horse Handlers for our Rehabilitation Services, and Julie, Linda, and Charlotte as Equine Specialists for our Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy Program.
If you see these folks around at the barn, feel free to give them a warm welcome!