Christine Thomas

President

Christine has been a physical therapist for 40 years and has worked with hippotherapy programs for 30 years working with other programs prior to Magical Moments Therapeutic Riding Center.  Her specialty has been in pediatric Physical Therapy.  Christine has been involved with Magical Moments Therapeutic Riding Center since 2008 as the physical therapist practicing Hippotherapy.  Christine did her PATH training for hippotherapy in 2008. Christine has a passion for helping others and making sure that everyone receives the best care possible in order to achieve their goals.

Melisa Stivaletti

Vice President

Melisa Stivaletti is a Lead Associate with Booz Allen Hamiliton and currently serves as an advisor and deputy program manager at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). Prior to work at ODNI, Melisa worked as a task lead for multiple projects at the Defense Intelligence Agency and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. She has twice deployed as a Department of Army Civilian (DAC) to Afghanistan. Melisa also served at the Department of Commerce and in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

Melisa is a certified Project Management Professional, holds a B.A. in International Relations from Liberty University, and an M.S. in Public Policy from George Mason University, and is ABD in a Ph.D. in Public Policy at the University of North Carolina. 

Melisa grew up surrounded by pediatric therapy patients and has witnessed first hand the power and potential of equestrian intervention. As Vice President, Melisa will bring her knowledge and skills as program manager and government contractor to ensure successful planning behind the scenes.

Melisa and her husband, Matheus live in Alexandria, VA. They have a six-year-old son, Luca and enjoy spending time with their dog, Luna and cat, Golfinho. Melisa is a certified yoga instructor and is passionate about travelling and exploring the world. 

Melissa Dalton

Treasurer and Barn Manager

Melissa has been involved with horses for over 30 years.  She has been a professional trainer since 2011.  While in school to get her psychology degree Melissa did her internship with Magical Moments Therapeutic Riding Center.  She has volunteered on and off with them before becoming part of the board.  Melissa has a passion for helping others and has worked in Mental Health for over 10 years.  Melissa has a special needs son and has worked closely with all the services that will be offered at this facility. Melissa currently owns and trains for Catawba Valley Equestrian.

Adrienne Goodfred

Secretary and Lead Physical Therapist

Adrienne has been a physical therapist for 15 years. She started out in adult physical therapy before moving to pediatrics.  This gives her the ability to understand and help a wide range of others.  Adrienne completed her PATH Certification test in October of 2022 for the practice of Hippotherapy. She has been helping as a PT at Magical Moments for four years. Adrienne has been spending time with Melissa Dalton around the horses outside of the therapy to further her knowledge base of horses for a better understanding of how the horse benefits the rider.