Melissa Saracino Lamont

Missy is an animal lover with two dogs, a cat, and a retired horse. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Management from Pennsylvania State University, specializing in Commercial and Community Recreation.

With over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, including a previous tenure as an Executive Director, Missy has played a pivotal role in program development, community outreach, fundraising, and strategic planning. Her dedication to nonprofit leadership deepened in 2019 when she earned a Certificate in Non-Profit Strategies from Harvard Business School, equipping her with the skills to navigate the evolving challenges of the sector.

Her passion for horses began at the age of eight and has remained a driving force in her career. A certified therapeutic riding instructor through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH Intl.), Missy has also taken on leadership roles within the organization. She currently serves on the PATH Intl. Governance Committee and has previously held positions as a State Chair and Region Representative. Additionally, she is certified in equine-facilitated learning through the HERD Institute, further expanding her expertise in equine-assisted services.

Missy has also contributed her knowledge as an Advisory Board member for Hestovin Stables Therapeutic Riding Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Empowerment Farm in Naples, Florida—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals through farm-based activities.