🌟 Meet the Heart of Stella’s Chance! 🌟
Our incredible Coaches, Working Students, and Volunteers are the heart and soul of what we do—bringing energy, kindness, and knowledge to every ride, activity, and adventure! 🐴💙
Our Team
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Our Team *
Program Director & Horsemanship Coach
With over 30 years in the horse industry, I’ve dedicated my life to helping riders of all abilities gain confidence, build skills, and form meaningful connections through horsemanship.
I’ve held CHA certifications as an Instructor in English, Western, Trail Riding, Riders with Disabilities, and as a Director for their Equine Facility Management Program. My background includes everything from trail guiding and dressage to obstacle competitions and ranch sorting—I love bringing variety and fun into every lesson.
Since 2004, I’ve worked closely with individuals with disabilities using equine-assisted learning and supported employment, and became a WA-certified Behavior Technician in 2017. Stella’s Chance is proud to be a contracted WA DDA provider, offering inclusive, recreational, and community-based programs.
Today, my role at Stella’s Chance is primarily administrative—focused on enrolling new students, developing lesson plans, training staff, and managing the many moving parts of running our growing program. From operations to outreach, I’m passionate about building a program that’s as strong behind the scenes as it is in the saddle.
My mission at Stella’s Chance is simple: to inspire growth, independence, and joy—in the barn and beyond. 💙
Maryjo Turnbull
Chelsey McPherson
Assistant Horsemanship Coach
Chelsey has been making a difference for over 10 years—supporting individuals of all abilities as they grow in confidence, try new things, and connect with their community. She’s fluent in sign language and passionate about making sure everyone feels seen, heard, and included.
A lifelong horse lover, Chelsey started riding at age 11 and got her own horses by 16. She’s served two seasons in mounted patrol (with plans for a third!) and currently helps care for 10 horses while continuing to grow her horsemanship skills. She believes deeply in the power of horses to uplift, inspire, and heal.
Chelsey works closely with our DDA clients, creating meaningful, fun, and empowering experiences both in and out of the barn. She also leads our Young Riders (ages 4–7), supports Equine Explorers, and mentors Working Students with patience, joy, and heart.
For the past two years, Chelsey has served as Mary Jo’s right-hand assistant, helping to grow Stella’s Chance behind the scenes while keeping the barn running smoothly. She’s a vital part of our team—and we’re so lucky to have her! 💙
Marissa Molcome
Assistant Horsemanship Coach
Marissa has loved horses for as long as she can remember—starting lessons at age 9 and continuing through 4-H during high school. With the support of a great mentor, she’s taken on training jobs and provides care at client barns, working with everything from young horses to goats!
Her current project is a 6-year-old American Saddlebred, who she hopes to show at both local and breed-level shows.
At Stella’s Chance, Marissa assists with all levels of riders—from beginners to more advanced students—and works closely with our DDA clients to create positive, inclusive, and engaging experiences. She’s excited to share her love of horses with the Clark-Cowlitz community and help students grow both in and out of the saddle. 🐴💙
Morgan Overton
Assistant Horsemanship Coach
Morgan has been part of the horse world her entire life. At 27, she brings a wide range of experience—from showing in Western Pleasure and English, to working on racetracks in California. Her background reflects a true passion for all things equine, and she's excited to be back in the arena, sharing that passion through teaching.
At Stella’s Chance, Morgan works with riders of all levels, as well as our DDA clients, helping each participant grow in confidence, skill, and connection. She’s thrilled to be part of the team and looks forward to helping others discover the joy of horsemanship! 🐎💫