SANTA BARBARA, CA, JANUARY 19, 2026 – Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center (Hearts) is delighted to announce Kristen Kallai as the organization’s new Executive Director. Kristen, a beloved member of the Hearts family since 2017, previously served as Director of Operations before stepping into her new role, which recently went into effect.
Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Kristen has had a lifelong passion for horses. After relocating to Santa Barbara in 2008 and spending four years as a stay-at-home mom, she began volunteering at Hearts. Her dedication quickly grew, and she became deeply involved in the volunteer program, contributing most days of the week.
During her time as Director of Operations, Kristen played a pivotal role in streamlining Hearts’ programs and expanding community outreach. With her deep understanding of the organization and her longstanding commitment to its mission, Kristen is poised to lead Hearts into an exciting new chapter of growth and impact.
Hearts is thrilled to have Kristen at the helm and looks forward to her leadership in furthering the organization’s mission to provide equine-assisted services that positively impact the lives of participants and the broader Santa Barbara community.
Join us in welcoming Kristen Kallai to this exciting new chapter at Hearts!
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Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center provides equine-assisted services to inspire, strengthen, and motivate children and adults with disabilities in Santa Barbara County. Since its inception in 1985, Hearts has grown its programs to serve more than 100 individuals each year with the help of 14 specially trained horses. Hearts also has programs serving U.S. Military Veterans and at-risk youth. For more information about its programs, visit www.heartsriding.org or contact info@heartsriding.org.
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