Joan Promen, Owner/Director
Joan Promen has been a riding, training, showing, and instructing students and instructors for over 53 years. Over the years, Bookmark Farms built a legacy as a premier hunter- jumper educational and training center.
Due to the age of the school horses, Joan has downsized the riding lesson program in the past year, from 31 to 15 horses. In effort to continue her vision and commitment to equine education, we are building program opportunities that are focused on providing enriching and informative educational experiences for learners of all ages and skill levels.
Joan still offers a limited number of private riding lessons each week, and is excited for the new programming and sharing her knowledge, skills, and experience with the next generation.
Joan with Henny
Kirsten White, Licensed Educator, Educational Program Director
Hello! I’m Kirsten, and I’m delighted to serve as the Bookmark Farms Educational Program Director. With over 14 years of experience as a middle school teacher, I spent much of my career teaching sixth grade science, where I developed a strong foundation in classroom management, curriculum design, and fostering critical thinking in young learners.
Though I loved teaching, I chose to leave the profession to prioritize my mental health and take a different path. I have found that horses offer a unique way to support mental health, providing individuals with a calm, non-judgmental space to build confidence, develop emotional awareness, and foster resilience. By combining my background in education with my professional and personal experiences related to neurodivergence, I aim to create an inclusive environment where every individual feels seen, supported, and empowered.
My transition from public education into the world of horses has been one of wonder and awe, and I am thoroughly enjoying this new chapter of my life. This past summer, I had the privilege of assisting with Bookmark’s Horse Lover’s Camp program, and shortly after, I adopted Nemo, my 22-year-old Haflinger, from Maggie’s Mission Dog and Horse Rescue. He has quickly become a cherished member of my life, and a beloved resident at the farm; I am elated to share the joy and lessons he offers with everyone he meets and works with in our programs.
I am grateful for this opportunity, and look forward to combining my passion for education, advocacy, and horsemanship to create a meaningful and enriching experience for all of our program participants!