Rumore, Miller present equine research at IAHAIO Conference

Jo Anne Miller (left) and Amanda Rumore

Biology professor Amanda Rumore and adjunct equine studies professor Jo Anne Miller recently presented research at the 15th Triennial International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations (IAHAIO) Conference. Held in April, the conference was hosted by Green Chimneys in Brewster, N.Y.

Their research, “Equine-Assisted Learning Combined with Traditional Tutoring Reduces the High School Drop Out Rate of At-Risk-Youth,” shows the effectiveness of the local Brook Hill Farm’s United Neigh program, which pairs horse care, equine-assisted learning, mounted instruction, and academic tutoring for at-risk youth ages 12-18. From 2008-2017, 100 percent of students who participated in the program graduated from high school, compared to 82 percent for their adjusted cohort.

IAHAIO is the global association of organizations that engage in practice, research and/or education in animal assisted activity, animal assisted therapy, and service animal training. Their mission is to provide international leadership in advancing the field of human-animal interaction.

Brook Hill Farm is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization in Forest, Va., and exists to provide rehabilitative focused services and a safe haven for unwanted horses as well as a therapeutic riding program for personal growth and equine education for area youth and adults. Brook Hill is a PATH International Premier Center and accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. For more information, visit https://www.brookhillfarm.org.