Sarah Rigg

Sarah Rigg is a Lecturer at the University of New Hampshire (College of Agriculture, Nutrition, and Food Systems). Since 2000, she has taught courses in horsemanship, equine science, and riding instruction, serving as Director of the Equine Program since 2006. She specializes in classical dressage and combines equine pedagogy with interdisciplinary topics like the horse’s role in history, art, and culture.

Education:

• B.S., Equestrian Studies, University of New Hampshire

Her research focuses on horsemanship, systematic development of horse and rider, pedagogical frameworks for riding instructors, and ethical considerations in equestrian sports. Recent publications highlight human rights issues in equestrian contexts, including child labor in Mongolian horse racing and ethical horsemanship practices.

Over her career, Rigg has coached the UNH Dressage Team to a national championship (2009) and serves as a Dressage Technical Delegate for the United States Dressage Federation. She is also a PATH International certified therapeutic riding instructor, emphasizing accessibility and ethics in equine-assisted activities. Her work bridges equestrian science with social justice, particularly in equine welfare and rider-horse dynamics.