Ann Miles, Ph.D
Executive Director and Founder
Ann completed her doctoral studies in Counseling while working in the Boston Public Schools during desegregation. Consulting with various groups enabled Ann to prepare teachers and staff for the tumultuous years of integration. After completing her studies, Ann worked for many years in the computer and construction industries, but she never lost her keen interest in helping students learn. In 2000, Ann returned to horses and children and began offering therapeutic services through her company The Carriage Barn, LLC. Ann’s focus for all programs is “learning to learn”. There is no syllabus, only a compelling need to know how clients learn best. The inclusion of all school age children in her programs is still very important to Ann.
Ann is nationally recognized for her work with the challenged community as well as for her dedication to carriage driving. She has presented and lectured on the subject of therapeutic riding and driving at numerous Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) regional and international conferences as well as various other organizations and boards.
She continues to “creatively include” those clients, adult and child, abled bodied and challenged. She firmly believes diversity is grounded in commonalities. Assessments are based on fun activities. Introduction to our specially trained horses includes respect for their talents and different capabilities. Defining goals for each client is client driven. Great expectations for self are the force which drives the acquisition of competencies.
Ann’s community involvement includes membership on many boards and organizations including education, construction, restoration, and conservation. She is a past President of the Amesbury Carriage Museum (MA).
In addition to numerous awards for her work in the building and restoration industry, Ann has been recognized by several organizations for her work in the equine therapy industry. She is also a published author in many magazines and professional journals. She is not compensated for her position as Executive Director of the Program.
Michele Pendleton, CPB, BSA
Business Manager
Michele received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Marist College (NY). She worked in finance and credit & collections before becoming Business Manager for the Program. Michele assisted in founding of the Program with state & federal agencies, including seeking federal Not-For-Profit status. Over the last twenty years Michele has expanded her understanding of the Not-For-Profit and equine related industries through various seminars, training opportunities, and hands-on experiences. Michele also serves the Program as its Treasurer and a founding member of the Board of Directors. In addition to her work with the Program, Michele is owner of Freedom Business Services, which provides bookkeeping and administrative services to small businesses and individuals. Michele is a Certified Public Bookkeeper, a member of the QuickBooks ProAdvisors Program and is currently studying for Enrolled Agent licensing.