Wesleyan is 1 of 10 women’s colleges in the U.S. to include an equestrian team in its athletics. We compete in the IHSA in both hunt seat and western and the IDA for dressage. Wesleyan also offers a minor in equine assisted therapy.
Wesleyan offers riding lessons for community riders of all skill levels, summer camps for children, and a variety of other programs including training opportunities. Wesleyan’s Nancy Ellis Knox Equestrian Center offers boarding with limited openings.
The equestrian center accepts donations of horses, horse tack, farm equipment, and other horse related items. As a non-profit organization we provide donation receipts. A care-lease program is also in place for horse owners looking for boarding options.
Built in 1999 and only a short walk from student residence halls, Wesleyan’s Nancy Ellis Knox Equestrian Center is located on campus within the Mathews Athletic Complex which has plenty of parking space. The facility includes a 24-stall open-air barn for lesson horses, student horses, and community boarders; six turnout paddocks; three hot/cold water wash racks; climate-controlled tack room; separate boarder tack room; student lounge; classroom; private lockers for team riders; a covered dressage arena; and a large jumping arena with lights.
Bringing more than twenty years of professional and equestrian experience to Wesleyan, Baker serves as head coach for the equestrian team, director for the Nancy Ellis Knox Equestrian Center, adjunct professor, senior associate athletic director, and community lessons instructor. Baker’s goal is for students to learn lessons and skills from working with horses that they can use in every aspect of their lives. "Horses are very special creatures that teach us responsibility, courage, empathy, and humbleness. There is so much potential for this program to provide amazing opportunities to students and the community."
Baker earned her bachelor of science degree in biology from St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas, and master's degrees from Texas A&M University (educational administration) and The University of Arkansas (business administration). Her certifications include Licensed Official FEI Federation - Equestrian International and IEA Steward.
Contact Catherine Baker at (478) 757-5111, cbaker@wesleyancollege.edu
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Wesleyan College is home to five NCAA Division III sports: soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and softball. In addition, we offer an award-winning Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) Equestrian program.
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