We are so pleased to welcome Melissa Maker into a new role at Xenophon, that of Physical Therapist Assistant. Over the course of the last several years, Melissa has been working two jobs, and attending school to become a Physical Therapy Assistant, and last year graduated from her program and passed her board exams. Melissa’s talent as an instructor, her extensive knowledge of disabilities, and her caring disposition made this career choice the perfect fit. Melissa has worked as a therapeutic riding instructor at Xenophon for over 10 years, with the last year at spent working closely with Tineke Jacobsen, our physical therapist, expanding her expertise in hippotherapy. In January, she passed her Level 1 Certification through the American Hippotherapy Association.

Beginning in Session 4, Melissa will begin treating clients in Hippotherapy, under the direct supervision of Tineke. We are excited to have Melissa work for us in this capacity and know that she will bring all the amazing strengths and knowledge she possesses to her new role. Melissa began volunteering for Xenophon when she was 14 years old. What a joy it has been to have this talented young lady involved in our program for so many years, and to see the way Xenophon has shaped her career. Congratulations, Melissa, on your professional journey and accomplishments.