Laurie Bryceland, CTRI, ESMHL – Founder/ Executive Director– Laurie is the head Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, as well as an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. She holds ESMHL and CTRI certifications with PATH Intl and Natural Lifemanship Institute – Level 2. She conducts sessions of Equine Assisted Learning with a wide variety of clients and students including at risk youth, children and adults with special needs, veterans, active military families and first responders. Looking at both the neuropsychology of the horse and its human partner, she teaches the building of connected relationships using the principles of Natural Lifemanship. Laurie also teaches beginner riding skills in both English and Western disciplines as well as Horsemanship skills. She is passionate about helping her clients discover all that horses can teach us. She also enjoys being a PATH Intl approved mentor and assisting new candidates through the process of becoming certified instructors or equine specialists.
Linda Olivo, Director of Development – Linda’s career at Victory Hill began when she started volunteering along with her son, Justin. Linda was inspired by her son’s passion for veteran causes to get involved with Victory Hill’s programs. She has previous experience volunteering at a nearby equine rescue and was excited to have the opportunity to work along side horses once again. In 2020, Linda stepped up to fill the role of Bookkeeper. In 2025, Victory Hill was thrilled to have Linda transition to the full time role of Development and Communications Coordinator. Her hard work, passion, and dedication to our mission make her a true asset to the team! Linda also volunteered for many years with the Pocatello fire department in Middletown, NY as support personnel, fundraiser, and parade coordinator. Her husband, David, also jumps in whenever we need an extra hand.
Patti Murray- Program Coordinator & Instructor – Patti brings a lifetime of horse experience, compassionate leadership, and a deep belief in the healing power of the horse-human connection. With years dedicated to rescuing and caring for horses and other animals, Patti creates safe, nurturing environments where trust, growth, and healing can flourish. Her approach to horsemanship is rooted in patience, understanding, and calm guidance. Patti is also a certified PEMF practitioner for both people and animals, offering a holistic approach to wellness, recovery, and balance. She is currently pursuing certifications as a PATH Intl Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL) and as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI).
Jessica Sheehan- Volunteer Coordinator & Instructor – With over 20 years of riding experience, Jessica brings a lifelong passion for horses and horsemanship to her role as a Volunteer Coordinator and Instructor at Victory Hill. Her journey with horses blossomed into a dream of becoming a riding instructor—one she had placed on hold to raise her daughter—but she is proud to now be in a position to turn that dream into reality. Jessica is dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and enriching environment where riders and volunteers can grow, connect, and experience the powerful therapeutic bond between horse and human. Jessica is currently pursuing her certification with PATH Intl as an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL) and a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI).
Chris Bryceland, Barn Manager – Chris is a full time first responder in addition to managing the family farm where Victory Hill TH is located. He is quite skilled in all areas of farm and equipment maintenance and takes wonderful care of our herd and petting zoo. We could not do what we do without the many hours of hard work he puts in 7 days a week!
Wendy Conger – Barn Staff – Bio coming soon
Jonathan Turner– Barn Staff – Bio coming soon