Equine International Online Learning Programs

Emily Kieson holds a PhD in Comparative Psychology, a MS in Psychology, and a graduate degree in Equine Science. Emily also holds multiple certifications in various models of equine-assisted activities and previously served as Chair of the Equine Welfare Committee with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) for2 years. Her current research focuses on equine affiliative behaviors to study how horses create and maintain social bonds and how those can overlap with human affiliative behaviors for application in management, horse ownership, equine-assisted activities, and indicators of positive welfare in horses with and without humans. She also has a passion for supporting sustainable systems of horse management and husbandry that promote physical and psychological welfare of the horse while simultaneously supporting sustainable ecosystem practices on small and large scales (for both feral and domestic equids). Emily currently develops and teaches courses at universities in the fields of psychology, animal-human interactions, animal-assisted interventions, animal behavior and training, and animal welfare and ethics. She also serves as a member of dissertation committees at universities in the US and UK. Emily serves as Executive Director at Equine International.

Sharolyn Wandzura of Ears Forward Coaching offers leadership and personal development programs based out of Azadeh Acres located in east Maple Ridge, BC. As a long time student of the horse, she blends Liberty Horse Training, Equine Guided Development & Career Coaching to help clients find their voice, become compassionate leaders and have courageous conversations. As an Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator I do believe our industry is ready for growth for our clients, ourselves AND our horses. "When we KNOW more we are able to BE more for our horses and ourselves while providing effective services for our communities."