“If there is a will there is a way. That is a sentence that sums up Winter Tietjen. My name is Shannon Cunneff and I am the head trainer and manager of Highland Farms. I have had the privilege of teaching Winter since 2015. She is a dedicated and hard-working junior rider that strives to do her best in and out of the saddle. Winter really enjoys learning to care properly for the horses and is always willing to give a helping hand. Winter has committed herself to perfecting her skills as a rider, as well as sharing her knowledge with other members of our farm family.
Winter does it all. From the 4 AM wake-up calls to the night checks at our barn of 35 horses. No matter the task, I have full faith that not only will Winter accomplish it but it will be done well. I can entrust my horse’s care and well-being with her. Over the last seven years, I have watched Winter develop into not only an accomplished and dedicated rider but also a hardworking and mature young adult. Winter is entrusted by my entire team and looked up to by other junior riders. I am confident that Winter would be a valuable asset to your program.”
~ Shannon Cunneff; Highland Farm, Atlantic Highlands, NJ
“I have had the privilege of coaching Winter Tietjen on our IEA team over the past three years. It is not often that I come across a young horseperson who is as well-rounded and open-minded as Winter, and having her part of our team is a pleasure and an honor. Winter not only shows talent in this sport but a willingness to learn and ask questions to further her knowledge.
Not only is Ms. Tietjen a member of our IEA team, but she has also come to play a role in the day-to-day care of our equestrian facility. Winter is a self-starter and an independent thinker, which keeps the daily activities of our barn running efficiently. I see Winter being an asset to any type of team in the future, with her trifecta of talent and abilities, compassion for the animal, and willingness to work hard and continuously learn.”
~ Carly Hartdorn; Winward Equestrian LLC, Colts Neck, NJ
“I have been working with Winter this school year to supplement her academic foundation so that she will get the most out of her fully online schooling. Like many high schoolers she needed to review her basic math skills as well as English concepts to fully maximize the independent skill of online schooling. Winter was well organized and motivated to do well in all her classes. She works well independently and retains the skills retaught. She finished the school year with excellent grades and on schedule. Her maturity enabled her to embrace the concept of learning virtually and being able to compete in higher level equestrian shows that take her away from home.”
~ Stacee Seiler Samuels; Highly Qualified Teacher N.J.