The Team at Triangle Equine Assisted Learning, LLC
Devon Broughton
Devon is a native North Carolinian, with strong family roots, a robust background and knowledge of horses, business, and communication to the EAL experience and operations of the company. She has skillfully assembled the team at Triangle EAL to provide an incredible experience for participants while bringing awareness to the community as a whole, what the equine world offers.
Equestrian Background
For as long as she remembers, Devon’s love for horses began early, ignited by earning her Girl Scout Horseback Riding Badge at age 8. Her passion quickly grew, leading her to show and care for her horse, Popcorn, and eventually compete in major show circuits along the East Coast where she learned some of life’s greatest lessons: sportsmanship, politics of the show ring, partnership, how to win and lose gracefully, and to always do your best. By 15, she had earned three reserve world titles and successfully trained champion horses. She is acutely dialed-in to horse behavior, their needs, and how to properly care for them. Today, having owned over 30 horses and 35 years of experience, she is passionately dedicated to the horse-human relationship and life-changing benefits of EAL.
Devon is a strong advocate for anyone to experience the unexplainable transformation that only horses can provide – especially by interaction in the Equine Assisted Learning, Team Building, and Leadership Development sessions. Her deepest desire is that others learn how powerful horses are to challenge one to become a better version of themselves, the incredible partnership that can develop between horse and human, and the positive behavioral changes that transcends into a joyful, more meaningful life. “I love seeing participants have that ‘aha moment’ with horses. The debriefing part of our sessions are so special – that’s where people collectively reveal their newfound excitement, learning experiences, and new awareness of un-serving behaviors. It is so rewarding to hear even a senior participant explain what the horse taught them about themselves! Who says old dogs can’t learn new tricks,” explains Devon.
Business and Communication Background
Graduating from North Carolina State University with a BA in Communication in Interpersonal and Public, as well as studies in Psychology, Devon’s career began in Real Estate Sales. She has been a top-producing licensed Realtor since 2003, participated on the Agent Leadership Council and chaired the Career Development Committee, opened her own firm in 2009, unveiled a Property Management Division two years later, and in 2018 she partnered with leading industry professionals. Not only has she studied the dynamics of effective communication, Devon practices these tenets with clients and teams. Armed with her degree and professional experience, her commitment to helping others achieve success is fueled by her commitment to helping others achieve success and personal growth through Triangle EAL’s programs.
Assistant Facilitators
Michelle Stell
A nurse by profession, Michelle brings over 20 years of equestrian experience. Attentive to the needs of others, she is known for her caring nature, both with horses and in her professional life. Without Michelle, our program would lack the warmth and empathy she brings, qualities that are essential to the transformative experiences we aim to provide.
Lisa Gomes
An administrative assistant by day, Lisa is known for her calm, consistent approach. Her attention to detail and kind heart ensure smooth sessions, making participants feel at ease. Lisa is an incredible asset to the program. She owns a miniature horse, Breeze, as well as other farm animals she lovingly cares for on her Raleigh “farmette.”
Our Equine Partners
A 2004 American Quarter Horse mare, Lacy is the lead mare in the herd. She is a patient and steady EAL partner, helping participants build confidence and learn the finer nuances of nonverbal communication.
This 2011 American Quarter Horse gelding is known for his commanding presence and assertiveness. He teaches participants about assertiveness, patience, and the importance of clear communication.
A 2012 American Miniature Horse mare, Farrah is a recent rescue who quickly adapted to her new home. Despite her small size, she is a strong EAL partner, teaching lessons in patience and consideration.
A 2002 Tennessee Walking Horse mare, Grace is known for her patience and willingness. She excels in EAL sessions by demonstrating the importance of clear communication and effective leadership.
Expressions of Gratitude for Our EAL Equine Partners
In our experience with horses, these highly perceptive animals are powerfully insightful teachers. Listen to them and you’ll likely learn more about yourself and healthy relationship dynamics than any classroom or course can provide. Without their presence, I am certain many more people would not possess higher communication skills sets, empathy, emotional intelligence, and probably would lack 90% of our capabilities to sense the emotions and needs of others around us, how to wisely process that information, navigate other’s emotional insecurities through shared understanding and peace, and how to create trusting relationships.
We are ever grateful for their incredible ability and willingness to help us learn so much about ourselves and others, through their eyes, as the horse-human bond is appreciated by both. The fascinating horse-human relationship cannot be overstated and the bond shared with them is undeniable.
