my vision
I discovered my talent and drive for writing in high school, where I was fortunate to have a supportive and influential teacher who encouraged my talents and helped me develop them despite the typical teenage angst no one likes to admit they felt. I spent a lot of time bonding with my dad through discussions about books and the secret messages they held, contemplating the implications literature had on my own interpretations of life. That habit continued during my time in college, where I majored in English Literature. Perhaps by coincidence, I discovered SUU’s Equine Studies program my sophomore year. I had always loved horses and wanted to learn how to ride, so I signed up for that program – marking the beginning of my relationship with the agriculture industry.
The students beside me frequently came from farming and ranching backgrounds, the world I’d wanted to be part of for as long as I can remember. Through my (hands-on) experiences in an agriculture-based college program, I decided I wanted to find a way to combine my talent for writing with my new-found appreciation for agriculture and horses.
I completed my associate degree in Equine Studies alongside my bachelor’s degree, then took time to get married and have my two children - but I’ve never lost my drive for writing or my desire to advocate for agriculture with it.
My ultimate goal is to use my business as a way to continue my own education in agriculture while supporting ag-based businesses and promoting a better understanding of the agricultural industry.
My Experience
I’ve been involved with horses since I started on the path of obtaining my associate’s degree. I’ve been fortunate to work in both intern and paid capacities with cowboys, riding instructors, and horse trainers. I even taught riding lessons myself before my son was born. The summer I spent as a trail guide in San Louis Obispo was both memorable and influential to my development as a horsewoman. Although I’m not in the saddle every day, I’m very grateful to have come across my horse Gunsmoke - Gunny for shot - and have the opportunity to raise my children with the influence of horses and agricultural values. I am also certified as an equine specialist, qualified to lead equine-assisted learning and assist equine-assisted psychotherapy.
My appreciation for agriculture and horses was evident in most essays I wrote for my bachelor’s degree in English Literature, and while I was a reporter in southern Utah I worked with the local Farm Bureau and Extension offices to make sure agricultural news in the area was well-covered.
