Shelby Dytschkowskyj
Director of High Hurdles
Shelby has been a part of the High Hurdles program since 2013 when she began volunteering after school and on the weekends. Her journey in equine therapy began in 8th grade with a career research project, and has been shaped over time including being a part time riding instructor here in 2019. Ultimately it has led her to being a part of High Hurdles as the director in July of 2021. Shelby holds a dual major in Equestrian Studies and Psychology from Houghton University, supplemented by a minor in Equine Assisted Therapies. Additionally, she is a certified Level 2 CHA instructor and Equine Facility Manager. Shelby is committed to continuously learning and growing and is driven by a desire to see High Hurdles expand its impact and reach more people.
Erin Hoelscher
Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Erin was raised on her family’s dairy farm and has always had a passion for horses. She showed western pleasure and did some barrel racing with a few horses that she leased growing up and now has two horses of her own. Erin is a graduate of Eden Central High School. There, she would use her free time to assist in special education classes and help with families that needed respite care. She has a love for people and always knew she wanted to work with people with disabilities. When the opportunity came up to work at High Hurdles, she knew it was meant to be, because it would combine two of her passions. Erin’s favorite part about High Hurdles is helping riders and seeing them accomplish their goals. Erin is currently pursuing her education to gain certification as a Registered Therapeutic Riding Instructor through PATH Int’l, and a certified riding instructor certification through CHA.
Sam Parsell
Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Sam began volunteering at High Hurdles in 2019 and has grown in her passion for the therapeutic riding field ever since. She graduated from Pioneer High School in 2022. Sam has a vibrant personality and loves to see the smiles on a rider's face during lessons. Sam is in pursuit of her riding instructor certification through CHA.
Anna Galley
Apprentice Riding Instructor
Anna has a long history at High Hurdles, starting as a child riding in the program. She spent a lot of time volunteering through school and interned with us in her last year of high school. Anna began working at High Hurdles in her current position in 2023. She loves helping riders and being involved with the horses. Anna has an array of critters at home from hermit crabs to lizards and her faithful canine companion, Lucy.
Jocelyn Wilkins
Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Meet Jocelyn! Originally from Florida, Jocelyn grew up riding hunter/jumpers, developing a lifelong passion for horses. She holds a bachelor's degree in Animal Behavior and spent seven years serving as an Army medic, bringing a wealth of experience in care and commitment to her role. Jocelyn's unique background and skills make her an invaluable part of our team, blending her love of equines with her dedication to helping others.