Our staff is an important part of the success of our business. Each member of the team has a unique area of expertise to share. They have spent many years in leadership positions and enjoy passing along what they have learned. Each facilitator takes the responsibility to be informed and well educated on their topic, providing you with the most timely information and the latest resources for our industry. We believe that everyone has something to contribute, from the students to the horses. Stay tuned for information on our new staff and faculty!
Blair McKissock MSEd
Blair McKissock has 10+ years working in the field of Animal Assisted Therapy. She has been a NARHA registered instructor since 1998 but has worked with horses for over 15 years. She is a Recreational Therapist with specialties in experiential and adventure education as well as curriculum development and animal assisted therapy. Blair has had the opportunity to work with many different animals in therapeutic settings including dolphins and wildlife but horses kept her here. She earned her Masters degree from Purdue University in Education with an emphasis on animal assisted learning. While at Purdue she helped create a certificate in Animal Assisted Therapy for interdisciplinary students. She has gone on to consult and write curriculum for the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, 4-H, Black Stallion Literacy project, and Encouragym. She has presented her work at several national conferences including two national NARHA conferences. Her articles have appeared in Strides magazine, EFMHA and the Instructor Voice. Currently she is the Program Development Coordinator for a local center and also works as a wellness coach.
Jan Helsper RN
Jan is a Registered Nurse and is a NARHA registered instructor. She has been in the health care industry for 28 years. With a background in healthcare compliance, performance improvement and clinical education, she continues sharing her expertise by facilitating national seminars on clinical, compliance and other related issues for a home care association. In recent years, she has also lead a therapeutic riding center as the Executive Director. Her dedication to the growth and development of this organization is unmatched. She was able to grow the center to be in the top 10% in the country in terms of budget and number of students served. With her back ground and experience, she is able to help others navigate areas of business with ease. She owns a horse farm with her family and understands the heart and commitment it takes to create a successful equestrian based business in today's market. She also has a wonderful understanding of children and adults with disabilities through her years as an RN.
