Equine professor is International Instructor of the Year

Central Wyoming College Equine Studies Professor Patti Stalley has been named the International Instructor of the Year by the Certified Horsemanship Association.

Stalley, who has been on the CWC faculty for three decades, was presented the award at the recent CHA International Conference. The award is given to an outstanding CHA-certified instructor who demonstrates “safe, effective and fun lessons,” the organization said in press release.
 
Stalley is a lifetime member of the CHA and is on the standard and equine facility manager clinic staff.
 
“She always sees that her students have what they need and even provides them with horses from her own string when necessary,” says CHA Program Director Polly Haselton Barger.  “I have witnessed her giving a hand up to many who needed it and been a role model to all. Her students love and respect her.”
 
Students from around the continent sent in nominations about their instructors, describing why they should be awarded the CHA honor.  Stalley’s students say she is much more than an instructor. “She is a friend, mentor, teacher, and role model for all of her students,” the release said.
 
“She can really see talent when it comes to people, and she will do just about anything to bring out the best in us,” the nomination said of Stalley. “It is like she sees the diamond hiding and does her best to shine us up. She doesn't pick favorites, and always tries to see the best in people and inspires us to do the same.”

Stalley was “totally taken aback” when she learned of the award. “Wow, what a wonderful surprise. I feel CHA has many truly great instructors and it had never entered my mind that I could be the recipient of such a great honor.”