Jessie Kersh Hunt
Founder
Jessie began taking horsemanship and riding lessons at age 6 after catching the horse bug fiercely growing up in a small town. After the perfect line up of events, Jessie received her first horse at age 8, which she trained and took with her to college. She began her academic career knowing that she wanted to work with people and horses. She graduated from the University of Arkansas with a bachelor's degree in psychology and a minor in equine science. After graduation, Jessie worked for an outdoor education and therapeutic riding center in South Texas for 2 years. She became PATH certified in 2014 and obtained her Eagala certification in 2016. After working in non profits for almost a decade, she worked toward a Masters of Public Administration degree with a concentration in nonprofit management. Jess is proud to be the co-creator and contributing professional to the Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies under graduate course at the University of Arkansas. Outside of Courage, Jessie is a Mom and business owner of a real estate firm. Courage was created in order to be a place where humans across the board could safely enjoy the healing powers of horses as a community. Whether it be by volunteering, participating in sessions, or simply sharing the word, Courage was founded in order to make horses accessible to all who need them.
Caitlin Love
Instructor & Volunteer Coordinator
Caitlin Love combines a background in education, community service, and horsemanship to help create meaningful experiences between horses and people. A graduate of the University of Arkansas, she spent more than a decade working with children before becoming a licensed real estate agent and returning to her lifelong love of horses.
As an Equine Specialist at Courage, Caitlin supports lessons, equine-assisted activities, and community programs while helping participants build confidence, connection, and practical horsemanship skills. She also provides equine care and exercise support for horses throughout Northwest Arkansas.
Caitlin believes horses have a unique ability to teach patience, communication, resilience, and self-awareness. She is passionate about making horse experiences welcoming and accessible for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Outside of Courage, Caitlin enjoys riding, reading, and exploring the places and communities that make Northwest Arkansas feel like home.
Levi Price Bateson
Instructor & Director of Operations
