The People Behind the Mission
Meet the individuals who bring experience, compassion, and care to every lesson.
Taylor Huntley
Executive Director, Program Director & PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Taylor Huntley serves as Executive Director and Program Director at Albany Therapeutic Riding Center, bringing both leadership and hands-on expertise to every aspect of the organization. A Magna Cum Laude graduate of Wilson College, Taylor holds degrees in Equine Facilitated Therapeutics and Business Management. She is certified through PATH Intl. and CECTH, and has experience teaching English, Western, and therapeutic riding.
Taylor is a PATH Intl. Mentor with a background in Dressage and Natural Horsemanship. She competed in IHSA during college, coached an IEA team, and is a Certified Special Olympics Equestrian Coach. Since joining ATRC in 2018, Taylor has played a key role in expanding programs and supporting riders of all abilities. Alongside her horse, Montana, she is dedicated to creating meaningful, individualized experiences that help each rider grow in confidence and independence.
Kate Carlson-Herba
Director of Mental Health Services & PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor & Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning
Kate Carlson-Herba brings more than 20 years of experience in the equine industry to her role at Albany Therapeutic Riding Center. Her background includes equine care and management, as well as competitive show riding. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Horsemanship from SUNY Cobleskill, an associate degree in Criminal Justice, and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work at SUNY Albany. Kate is also a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and a certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning.
At ATRC, Kate serves as Head Coach for the Special Olympics Equestrian Team and is dedicated to creating supportive, meaningful experiences for riders. Since joining the organization in 2021, she has brought a thoughtful, compassionate approach to her work and a deep belief in the impact of equine-assisted services. Kate lives on a small hobby farm with her husband, Chris, their daughters, Lillie and Rose, and a beloved group of animals, including a German Shepherd and three horses, including Apollo.
Lindsey Scaparo
Barn Manager, Instructor & PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Lindsey Scaparo serves as Barn Manager and Instructor at Albany Therapeutic Riding Center, where she plays an important role in both daily operations and rider support. She graduated from St. Lawrence University with a degree in Psychology and brings a thoughtful, people-centered perspective to her work.
After riding as a child, Lindsey returned to the barn and quickly rediscovered her passion for working with horses. She earned her PATH Intl. certification in 2023 and is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment for riders and volunteers alike. Lindsey values the sense of community at ATRC and is passionate about helping others build confidence and connection through their time at the barn.
Emma Testa
Weekend Stable Hand, Instructor in Training & PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
Emma Testa is a Weekend Stable Hand and Instructor in Training at Albany Therapeutic Riding Center. She is currently studying Canine Training and Management at SUNY Cobleskill, with plans to pursue a career in training service dogs. Emma has been around horses from a young age and began riding lessons in her early teens, eventually transitioning from Western to English riding.
Her experience with horses, including leasing her gelding Rowen, has shaped her passion for animal care and training. At ATRC, Emma is committed to learning, growing, and supporting riders as they build skills and confidence. She looks forward to continuing her journey at the barn and contributing to the welcoming, supportive environment that defines the organization.