United States Paralympic Contender from Oregon Trains at Centenary College

Hackettstown, N.J. –  Lise Yervasi, a contender for the United States Paralympic Team from Oregon, trained at Centenary College’s Equestrian Center in Long Valley recently before the selection trials at the United States Equestrian Team (USET) Foundation in Gladstone. 

Yervasi suffers from a rare autoimmune motor neuron disorder that caused nerve damage in her hands and arms, and ataxia, a movement disorder. She was initially diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s disease.  Even though that diagnosis changed, Yervasi continues to advocate for ALS awareness and funding to find a cure for ALS.  Although she did not qualify for the 2012 Summer Paralympics, she did finish fourth overall in her division, grade IV.  She plans to continue to train for the 2016 Olympics and enjoyed her time at Centenary.

“I was so impressed with the Centenary facilities and was pleased that I was able to train there prior to the selection trial.  Everyone at Centenary College was extremely friendly, had impressive horse knowledge and were willing to help in any way possible,” says Yervasi.  “I hope to be a guest there again in 2016!”

Since 1984, Centenary has awarded associate in science and bachelor of science degrees in Equine Studies. It is the only four-year institution in New Jersey that grants such degrees, allowing students with a love of horses to transform their interests and talents into solid career opportunities.

Today, the College’s Equine Studies graduates are highly sought after by various industry professionals, including competitive riding coaches, trainers, instructors, breeders, therapeutic riding and dressage specialists, barn managers, veterinarians and communications specialists.

In addition, Centenary’s Equestrian Studies Department has historically invited the public to participate in its programs.  For example, the Therapeutic Riding at Centenary program (TRAC) invites members of the public to volunteer their time helping with the students that participate in this program.  TRAC is a full-service therapeutic riding program that benefits adults and children with physical and cognitive disabilities.

“Centenary College has the facilities and program in place to work with individuals with disabilities through the TRAC program,” says Professor Octavia Brown, Professor of Equine Studies and Director of the TRAC program.  “TRAC students, instructors and volunteers were inspired by watching Lise ride, and she kindly took time to chat to them about her path to qualifying for the Paralympic selection trials in Gladstone. Having Lise train here was a win-win situation for all and I wish her well with her future riding and competing goals.”

 Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary College’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix is designed to provide an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world.

Centenary College’s main campus is located in Hackettstown, N.J., with its equestrian facility in Washington Township (Morris County).  The Centenary College School of Professional Studies offers degree programs in three locations: Hackettstown, Parsippany and Edison, and at corporate sites throughout New Jersey.  The School of International Programs recruits international students for study at Centenary and Centenary students for study abroad.

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