A former U.S. marine, award-winning community leader, and equestrian trailblazer, Patricia E. Kelly has been at the helm of the Hartford, CT-based non-profit organization Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. for the past 30+ years. Initially started in 1984 as a cultural and social enrichment organization for female equestrians, Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. serves over 300 youth annually, creating a safe space for local youth to receive mentorship and personal development. Kelly has been a trained equestrian instructor for over 37 years, as well as a certified Master Urban Riding instructor and Equine Husbandry instructor. She also holds a certification in Equine Assisted Growth, Learning, and Therapy as a Horse Specialist via EAGALA-(Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association). Kelly has been previously recognized for her trailblazing efforts multiple times, most currently as one of CNN’s Top 10 Heroes of 2014 and as one of Aetna’s Champions for Change.
