John MacEnroe, president of the Therapeutic Equestrian Center (TEC), announced that Sanya Gudim has been appointed as the new executive director of the Cold Spring organization.
Sanya Gudim
Gudim has an associate’s degree in business administration and a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, and has been with TEC since 2010. Gudim is a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and mentor, as well as an EAGALA Equine Specialist. She is passionate about continuing the organization’s mission and deepening its vision of servicing individuals with special needs and disabilities through equine-assisted activities and therapies in a safe, welcoming environment.
According to MacEnroe, “Sanya’s appointment capitalizes on the extraordinary base provided by our previous executive director, Leslie Heanue, and positions TEC for unprecedented growth in our mission of helping developmentally and physically challenged members of our community and our transitioning military and veterans. We look forward to this exciting new chapter in our history.”
Gudim states:
I love this organization, what it stands for, and what we do. My love of horses and helping others led me to volunteer at a therapeutic riding center many years ago, and I am delighted that the journey has led me to this opportunity. Now it’s time to turn the page to a new chapter. There is much work to be done, and I am committed to excellence in creating more opportunities for our participants in years to come. In just a short few months we have expanded our programs and operations from a professional staff of five to a staff of 11 (three full-time), augmented by a roster of over 200 enthusiastic volunteers, enabling us to serve individuals formerly on the waiting list. An EAGALA specialist and facilities manager are now on staff. New offerings include an instructor-in-training program, Pony Express program, and a Medicaid Respite Waiver program. This is a very exciting time for TEC.
Founded in 2006, the Therapeutic Equestrian Center (TEC) serves physically and developmentally disabled children and adults in an environment where people with disabilities can overcome physical, psychological and emotional barriers through equine-assisted activities, both on horseback and on the ground. Located in Cold Spring, the Therapeutic Equestrian Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information, visit myfeettakewings.org.
Photo courtesy of Therapeutic Equestrian Center
