Meet The Teachers

Lauren Patton Word Watterson My approach to horsemanship is founded on a lifetime of diverse experience, bringing together the disciplined rigor of academia with the grounded wisdom of the ranch. I was raised on a five-hundred-acre cattle ranch where my Cowboy Lawyer father insisted I master the walk, trot, and canter in an English saddle before I was allowed to wrangle cattle in a Western one. This background led to a youth rich in foxhunting, show jumping, and practical ranch work.

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Despite a competitive upbringing, the high stakes of show jumping eventually led to competition burnout. For decades, horses remained a beloved hobby while I pursued a distinguished career in design, tech and the arts. I was a design executive for a software company then ran a successful art gallery while teaching at institutions like Warren Wilson and ABtech. My academic background is equally diverse, with studies at the Sorbonne, Brown University, RISD (BFA), and Goddard College (MFA).

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My career pivot occurred five years ago during the pandemic. Faced with safety challenges due to a compromised immune system, I realized that the world needed the non-judgmental, restorative connection of horses more than ever. What began as a necessary change quickly blossomed into a passionate profession.

 

Now, with art and writing as a cherished hobbies, I am oddly thankful for the turn my career took, as I focus on sharing my broad, multi-disciplinary expertise with hundreds of students and fostering true connection, communication, and sound technique with these magical creatures.

Jenna Strahan brings a wonderfully diverse perspective to the Hoof and Horn Farm team, blending technical precision with a deep understanding of rider biomechanics. As a certified Hunter Jumper Coach with a solid foundation in Western Pleasure, Jenna offers students a well-rounded education that crosses disciplines. She focuses on developing a balanced, secure seat and sound technique, regardless of the saddle you choose.

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What truly sets Jenna apart is her minor in Therapeutic Riding. This specialized background allows her to approach instruction with unique empathy and patience, understanding how riding impacts the rider physically and emotionally. Aligned with our non-competitive philosophy, Jenna uses her broad expertise to foster confidence, relaxation, and a genuine connection between horse and rider, making the sport accessible and joyful for everyone.

Laurie Evans brings a depth of equestrian knowledge to Hoof and Horn Farm that bridges the gap between high-performance skill and mindful horsemanship. As a former nationally ranked show jumper, Laurie possesses a profound understanding of equine biomechanics and precision. However, her instruction today moves away from the pressures of the show ring to focus entirely on a non-competitive, education-focused approach.

Laurie has undergone extensive training in the methods of Buck Brannaman and utilizes the classical California vaquero tradition as the foundation of her teaching. Her goal is not to chase ribbons, but to help students develop sound technique through connection and communication. By working with the horse's nature and understanding how they think, Laurie guides riders toward a "true union" with their horse—prioritizing safety, security, and a deep, responsive partnership above all else.

With over 30 years of experience working with and riding horses, Katherine Sutherland brings a calm, foundational approach to Hoof and Horn Farm. She has been actively teaching lessons throughout the past few years, offering her expertise to students of all levels.

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Katherine utilizes her extensive dressage background to instill correct technique from day one. Dressage is the art of clear communication and balance, making it the perfect foundation for any discipline. Katherine teaches riders to develop a strong, independent seat and use light, effective aids—skills that ensure the horse and rider understand each other completely. Her focus on confidence-building, safety, and establishing sound fundamentals sets students up for a lifetime of joyful riding.

Operations & Coach in Training Amanda Williamson is the essential backbone of Hoof and Horn Farm, having been instrumental in the physical rebuilding and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. With a practical skill set that allows her to build or fix just about anything, Amanda ensures the farm's facilities are safe, sound, and fully functional for our entire community.

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Beyond her foundational work, Amanda is a dedicated coach in training and often assists with lessons, bringing a supportive energy to students. Her passion for horses is matched only by her dedication to Historical European and Dark Ages Martial Arts. Always keen for a challenge, Amanda is certain that either Count or Teddy is going to become her perfect war horse any day now—a playful ambition that highlights her commitment and unique spirit.