Leading with Passion

Ally Doyon’s path to Chatham Hall is shaped by her deep passion for horses and her extensive background in boarding schools. She explains, “I have always worked in boarding schools, and horses have been a constant presence in my life. It wasn’t until I joined The Fountain Valley School of Colorado, which boasts a vibrant riding program, that I realized I could combine these two passions.” At Fountain Valley, Ally taught History while collaborating with the admissions team. Additionally, she fulfilled her coaching requirement by working in the riding department, teaching lessons, schooling horses, and coaching the IEA team. 

In 2016, Ally’s career took a pivotal turn when she and her husband, Josh—Chatham Hall’s Dean of Students—relocated to  Massachusetts for a job opportunity for him. During this time, Ally paused her professional endeavors but soon re-engaged with her passion for equestrian training by establishing her own business at a local barn. In 2021, she learned about the Director of Riding position at Chatham Hall through an NAIS posting, which aligned perfectly with her expertise. 

After being hired in early 2022, Ally has focused on advancing the Chatham Hall Riding Program while honoring its tradition. Now in her third year at the helm of the Riding Program, Ally feels more at home and comfortable than ever. “It feels like I’ve always been here,” she shares with a smile. Though her time at Chatham Hall has been relatively short, Ally is certain that this is where she belongs. She has come to deeply appreciate the program’s rich history, understanding its significance to alumnae and past families and the valuable experiences it offers to every girl who comes to Chatham Hall. 

The Riding Program continues to expand and evolve. Ally emphasizes, “We want every student to experience riding a horse before they graduate. It’s important to us that they understand this is an inclusive space meant for the entire school community.” Chatham Hall Riding can support beginner and novice lessons while also offering advanced instruction and a competitive show program. She notes that in addition to riding, “we give these girls amazing opportunities, like internships with local veterinarians, the big cowgirl trip to New Mexico, taking them to compete in Ocala, and opportunities to work under other professionals in the industry.” Ally adds, “We are creating chances for them that they might not have elsewhere.” Furthermore, there are significant plans to enhance the facilities in the near future. 

Plans are underway to construct an additional covered arena, allowing Chatham Hall to expand its horse show and clinic offerings. Ally emphasizes, “We want to get our name out in the industry, making it known that we are top-notch.” With an increasing capacity, Chatham Hall is poised for the next phase of growth—not just in size but in strengthening an already excellent historical program while maintaining high-quality offerings. Ally emphasizes, “We strive to utilize all available spaces, ensuring that we keep group sizes small so students receive more individualized attention.”

The Mars Arena, originally opened in 1998, has recently undergone renovations, featuring new knee walls and premium TravelBrite footing. Additionally, thanks to the efforts of parents, faculty, and staff, the barn classroom was overhauled to better serve the Riding Program. The renovations include new cabinetry, seating, appliances, decor, and bathroom upgrades. Now, students have an incredible space in which to gather and learn at the barn. In addition to unmounted horsemanship instruction, the classroom is also where the Equine Science course is taught in the spring semester.

Summer camps at Chatham Hall continue to sell out each season, with a steadfast focus on quality in every aspect of the program. This past summer at the Advanced Camp, Show Like a Pro, Phillip Williamson, Director of the Equestrian Program at The University of Lynchburg, joined the camp to judge a mock horse show, providing students with valuable feedback and areas for improvement. “Participants are learning the strategy of being in the show ring,” notes Ally.

She expresses her gratitude for the strong support the program receives from alumnae, the board, students, and parents. “I love my students. It’s truly rewarding to see girls who have never ridden before progress from feeling scared or nervous to cantering or joining the IEA team.” 
“The Chatham Hall program is thoughtfully curated to ensure that  every girl, from the seasoned equestrian 

to the newcomer  meeting her first horse, can experience these transformative gifts  and invaluable lessons.”

- Ally Doyon