Our Team
We bring different perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a love for purposeful work, horses, and real connection.
Emelie Burnett
Founder & Barn OwnerWhat started as a dream of providing affordable and accessible opportunities for everyone has become a reality in the community of Hanover Township in the heart of Bethlehem PA. Here, Emelie trains horses, provides lessons in both Western and English disciplines, as well as, offers boarding and leasing services. As a youth Emelie worked her way up from a farm hand, horse trainer and later as a veterinarian technician, where she gained experience in equine medical care and rehabilitation. Emelie’s skilled in creating healthy and happy horses. Most uniquely, Emelie has a special gift in connecting people with horses. For those who lease a Pine Ridge Farm horse the partnering process is one she personally guides. She has matched countless undeniable connections with her intuition. One might say it’s her best trait.
Karen Eilenberger
Lesson Instructor
Karen has been teaching for the last 12 years and has a special gift working with children and beginner/intermediate adults both in and out of the saddle. Before moving to Pennsylvania 14 years ago Karen spent over 10 years in Washington State as a barn manager, including four years as a professional groom for an upper-level Dressage rider. She also had the opportunity to work closely with respected instructor and professional life coach Hen Verharen.
With her ARIA certification, and National Rating in Pony Club, Karen brings not only knowledge and experience but also a genuine passion for helping all her students to learn grow, and enjoy their time with horses.
In addition to teaching riding lessons, Karen also leads summer camps, horsemanship lessons, and clinics on an array of topics. She enjoys pursuing her own riding goals in Dressage
Sarah Hagan
Social Media/ AdministratorSarah helps Pine Ridge run both online and behind the scenes. With a bachelor’s degree in communications, she manages the farm’s social media presence by sharing the moments, stories, and personalities that make the barn special! She also handles day to day admin like messages and phone calls (so if you’ve reached out, you’ve probably talked to her!)
Sarah started horse back riding when she was young and has ridden on and off throughout the years. She now leases Spider here at Pine Ridge, so she understands both the rider experience and what makes this place feel like home. Whether she’s answering questions or capturing content, Sarah brings a friendly creative touch to share just how special the farm is.