Our Staff
Sarah Uzelac
Executive Director
Dr. Sarah Uzelac, Topfield's Executive Director, brings a unique blend of expertise to her role. With over 40 years of riding experience and a Ph.D. in Psychology, she is a PATH Intl. Certified Instructor and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. Sarah is passionate about the power of human-animal connections and the therapeutic benefits of horses.
Denise Surre LaPolla
Head Instructor
Denise LaPolla has been a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor since 2017. With a MS in Exercise Physiology, and experience in physical therapy, nutrition, & personal training, Denise possesses a deep understanding of both human and equine health. Denise is thrilled to share her love of horses with both new and returning riders.
Diana Gongora
Creative Arts Therapist
Diana Gongora is a NYS licensed Creative Arts Therapist with a passion for helping people transform their lives. With a MFA from Hunter College and a MPS from Pratt Institute, she brings more than 15 years of experience working with diverse populations. Diana's sessions at Topfield integrate talk therapy, art, and equines to meet individual client needs.
Hannah Polson
Driving instructor
Hannah Polson is an experienced carriage driving professional with a deep love for the sport. She holds licenses with the American Driving Society & serves on both the ADS Pleasure Driving & Event Standards Committees. Hannah has extensive experience with a variety of carriage horse/pony configurations & enjoys sharing her knowledge with others.
Leah Worrell
Program facilitator & Outreach coordinator
Leah Worrell brings her passion for connecting people with enriching experiences to her role at Topfield. With a MA in Non-Profit Management & over a decade of experience in outreach & program development, Leah is dedicated to building community & creating meaningful opportunities for engagement. She's excited to help you discover all that we have to offer!
Lori Powers
Office Manager & volunteer coordinator
Lori Powers brings her strong organizational & administrative skills to Topfield, where she manages both office operations & volunteer coordination. With a background in production management & finance from her time at MTV, Lori excels at ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. She is passionate about supporting Topfield's mission & is eager to connect with our dedicated volunteers.
Cailee Pondiccio
Barn manager
Cailee Pondiccio brings experience in riding, horse care, and showing to Topfield. Since joining Topfield in 2022, she has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, genuine empathy for both horses and humans, and a commitment to providing exceptional service. Cailee's passion for horses and dedication to the well-being of our herd make her an asset to our barn.
Jackie Brophy
grounds and facilities staff
Jackie Brophy ensures our facility remains in pristine condition for all to enjoy. She oversees the maintenance of our grounds and buildings. Jackie brings valuable experience from her previous role at the Hartsdale Public Parking District and her service as a volunteer firefighter. A Garrison native, she now resides on the Topfield property and has a deep appreciation for our horses.
Wendy Terebesi
horse trainer
Wendy Terebesi, owner of Top Focus Farm in Brewster, New York, provides professional weekly training and consultation services to Topfield Equestrian Center. She works closely with our herd to ensure each horse is well-prepared for our clients and programs.
Our Herd
Alan
Foaled in 2011, this sweet Irish-Canadian Traveler's Horse joined the Topfield herd in 2020. He's a curious and friendly fellow who loves treats and is a pro with the hydraulic lift. Alan is a treasured member of our adaptive riding and driving programs.
Espen
This Fjord Pony's got moves you've never seen! Foaled in 2010, this 14.2-hand wonder has the brains, the brawn, and the personality to light up any arena. Espen is a true testament to the incredible things that can happen when humans and horses connect!
Chester
Foaled in 2008, Chester is our handsome black and white Traveler's Horse! This gentle giant hails from Canada and joined the Topfield family in 2022. Standing tall at 15 hands, Chester has a heart of gold and loves helping our riders shine in our therapeutic riding program.
Dually
This adorable Haflinger, foaled in 2005, may stand at just 13.3 hands tall, but his personality is larger than life. Dually is a superstar in our therapeutic riding program, bringing joy and confidence to every rider he meets.
Colby
This Appendix Quarter Horse, the senior member of our herd, was foaled in 1997! This esteemed gentleman stands tall at 15.2 hands and loves his work in our therapeutic riding and ground programs. With his knowing spirit and sweet disposition, Colby is a true 'heart horse' for both clients and staff alike.
Tommy
This little Welsh-cross Pony stands tall at 13.2 hands and, even at 25 years old, is ready to take on the world, one therapeutic riding session at a time. Tommy's got the moves, the charm, and the work ethic to make every rider feel like a pro. He's living proof that dynamite comes in small packages!
Chico
This 21 year old handsome paint/percheron cross stands tall at 15.2 hands and has a truly inspiring story. Adopted from a PMU farm, Chico has been working at Topfield for many years and is amazing at his job in our therapeutic riding program. He's a true testament to the power of second chances.
Winston
Quarter Horse extraordinaire who's got "confidence booster" written all over him! Foaled in 2001, this 16-hand hunk is a master of his craft, guiding riders in our therapeutic riding program to new heights (literally!). Winston is the ultimate partner for those ready to embrace their independence in the saddle. Winston makes dreams come true, one ride at a time.
Onyx
In his mid-twenties, our stunning black Tennessee Walking Horse, Onyx, stands 16 hands. He may be a tall guy, but he is as gentle as they come. Onyx works in our ground and GRIT programs and has a special fondness for Veterans.
Gambit
This pint-sized powerhouse, foaled in 2010, might only stand 32 inches tall, but he's got a knack for making everyone smile. Gambit is a star in our ground programs, proving that you don't need to be big to make a big impact.
Godiva
Another 32 incher, foaled in 2009, Godiva has a sassy personality and a fondness for wheelchair users. She loves being groomed and led as part of our ground programming.
Irish
Foaled in 2001, Irish is the eldest mini, also standing 32 inches tall. Irish works in our ground programs and especially loves to host our mini-mania parties. She is very calm and a perfect match for any beginner!
Little Miss Sunshine
Sunny or "Little Miss" joined the Topfield herd in 2023. She's slightly taller than our other three mini horses and has a big personality. While Sunny doesn't typically care for stall visitors, she loves to be taken on walks around the grounds, groomed, or to have a roll in the arena.
Duke
This handsome Thoroughbred, foaled in 2010, brings a youthful energy to everything he does and serves Topfield as an equine mascot. Duke is always ready to make new friends, whether it's a fellow horse or a human visitor. With his outgoing personality and zest for life, Duke is sure to brighten your day.
Doc
The only donkey at Topfield, Doc serves as a companion and pasture buddy for our Thoroughbred mascot, Duke. His age has been estimated as close to 30 years old, but that doesn't stop him from braying for cuddles when he is in the barn. Doc is often incorporated into our Therapy sessions.