Shannon Cunneff of Highland Farm

Tell us a little about your business?
Highland Farm has been owned by Linda Glowzenski, for over 20 years and Linda and I have been running it for the past six years. I was presented the opportunity to be the head trainer when I was twenty-one years old. We split the management duties to keep the barn running smoothly. We offer a small lesson program to the outside public, however most of the horses and ponies are privately owned by clients who utilize the farm daily. Our client's lesson four to five days a week, and on off days the horses and ponies receive training rides to keep them nice and tuned up.

How did you get your start in the horse industry?
I have worked around horses and farms as long as I can remember. I have a science degree, and was attending nursing school when Linda offered me the full time position at Highland Farm. I chose to put nursing school on hold and pursue my dream job and have not looked back since! Our business continues to grow and I’m blessed to have such dedicated and devoted clients.

Which horse professional has influenced you the most and why?
Amanda Steege has been a horse professional I have always admired. I primarily ride hunters and always remember watching videos of Amanda's riding and how it helped me train to become a great hunter rider and trainer just like her!

What makes Highland Farms special?
Highland Farm is special for many reasons, the first being that we are a family community. All of our students support each other. We travel to horse shows together and everyone enjoys cheering each other on. Everyone is respectful and the parents of the students are also supportive and involved. Everyone really shares a special relationship!

What is your training philosophy?
I train students how to “ride the horse.” It's so much more than having your heels down and sitting up straight. The training rides on client's horses help me to train our students how to properly “ride” their horse(s) to the best of the horse and rider's ability. I teach them the importance of feel and connection with their horses and ponies.

What traits make up a good horse professional?
I am a big believer in learning something from everyone. Whether it be a groom, a client, or another professional. I respectfully listen to what everyone has to say and demonstrate patience as well. I enjoy helping problem solve and I'm a good listener. I listen for the needs of our clients and horses and always work to make decisions that are in their best interest.

Where would you ideally like to see your business in 5 years?
I would love to have several more clients that want to be on the A circuit with me. I would also love to have a another horse of my own that I can train and show.

Where else do you find happiness, besides with horses?
Going to the beach or on a long run make me happy. I love the summer days at the beach on my day off, going for a swim, or just laying in the sand. I also enjoy running, working out and baking in my free time.

How does HorseWorks come into play when it comes to your business and clients?
HorseWorks has been great to deal with over the past years. Brendan makes the horse insurance process as easy as can be. He is always a phone call or text away! I can assure my clients their horses insurance is in the best of hands with HorseWorks!

How do you personally define success?
I believe success can be defined in multiple ways and is much more than a blue ribbon. Every rider should have their own set of goals to achieve. Whether it's making it around a course, nailing distances, or in a flat class picking up the right lead. If my students “achieve” what we talk about prior to a show, in my eyes they have succeeded. Showing up and putting forth the effort and training at the farm is also how I view success, not just getting those ribbons!