ESMHL Certified

I was born and raised in Orange County and am a Southern Californian through and through. After spending a few years in San Diego for college and my first job, I returned to Orange County in 2004 to begin my career in the mortgage industry. I currently live in Huntington Beach with my husband, our dogs, and a bunny, and spend much of my time at the equestrian center where my retired off-the-track Thoroughbred, Gio, lives.

My love for horses began early—around age nine—after watching a movie in which the main character could communicate with animals. I was instantly captivated, especially by the horses, and begged my parents for riding lessons. I was fortunate to have a few opportunities to ride, but as life shifted, horses became something I had to put on hold. I told myself that one day, when I was an adult, I would find my way back.

It took nearly 30 years, but I finally did. A few years ago, I decided it was time to bring horses back into my life. I began taking lessons, volunteering at a horse rescue, and volunteering with TRCHB. I immersed myself in equestrian culture, eager to learn, grow, and make up for lost time. Being around horses again reminded me how empowered and grounded I felt as a child, and how meaningful the human–horse connection can be.

That sense of empowerment is something I deeply believe everyone deserves to experience. Too often, horseback riding is viewed as inaccessible or reserved for a select few. I am passionate about helping change that narrative and supporting programs that make equine experiences available to people of all abilities and backgrounds.

Professionally, I spent many years in the demanding, sales-driven side of the mortgage industry before transitioning into training and leadership roles, where I discovered how much I enjoy guiding, supporting, and developing others. Becoming a certified instructor for unmounted equine assisted learning activities allows me to combine my love of horses with my passion for helping people grow, heal, and connect.

Having known both the absence of horses and the privilege of having them in my life now, I truly value the opportunity to give back. I am grateful to support and serve a mission that brings together horses and people in such powerful, life-changing ways.