Meet the Team
Get to Know the Faces behind Graze Academy Inc.
President
Christina Dawson, LMHC
Christina Dawson, a founding member and President of Graze Academy Inc., brings extensive experience and heartfelt dedication to our mission. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH23262) and certified equine-assisted facilitator, Christina has been instrumental in shaping our vision and programs from the outset. Her journey began in 4H and volunteering with Horses for Handicap, where she witnessed firsthand the profound impact of equine therapy on individuals' lives. Inspired by these experiences, Christina has dedicated herself to integrating this healing power into broader therapeutic practices.
Christina's commitment to expanding access to mental health care led her to earn a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberland’s, completed in December 2021. With previous experience in substance use treatment centers and working with IPN/PRN clients, Christina brings a compassionate and innovative approach to her work at Graze Academy. Her unwavering dedication has been pivotal in establishing Graze Academy as a trusted pillar in the community, where horses play a crucial role in healing.
Operations Director, Certified Life Coach
Tim Dawson
Tim Dawson is an integral member of the Graze Academy team, known for his experience, trustworthiness, and unwavering drive. As a Certified Professional Coach and EAGALA Certified Equine Specialist since 2021, Tim specializes in trauma-based work, bringing a profound commitment to serving his clients. With a background working with substance use clients, Tim's personal journey of reinvention adds a unique perspective to his coaching approach.
Tim's passion for helping individuals and corporate groups achieve their goals is evident in his inspirational leadership. His expertise and dedication make him an invaluable asset at Graze Academy, where he fosters an environment of growth and success. Tim Dawson exemplifies the spirit of transformation and excellence that defines our team.
Facilities and Maintenance, Certified Life & Peer Recovery Coach
Patricia Macatee
An invaluable part of the Graze Academy Inc. staff and leadership, Pat Macatee has witnessed the continued evolution of our programs from that start. With extensive experience in the private sector, Pat offers a unique skill set that ensures an undeniable impact. Pat holds several certifications (CAC, CPS, CBHT, CCGC), and is a Life and Recovery Peer Coach and a drug and alcohol counselor. After running a private practice for adolescents and their families for the last fourteen years Pat provides invaluable knowledge to the team.
Program Director
Rachel Lane, LMHC, MCAP, BCC
My counseling career began 20 years ago in financial planning. I loved the life planning aspect of the profession, so I underwent professional life coach training, which then led me to clinical counseling as I sought to go deeper into my clients’ lives in order to truly help them. In all of my prior roles, I heard about money issues, relationship challenges, addictions, grief, depression, anxiety, stress. Today I enjoy using my wisdom and experience to help clients with their personal situations while combining clinical counseling and equine therapy.
Our Board of Directors.
Each board member brings a unique blend of professional expertise, lived experience, and heart-centered commitment to our mission.
Together, they provide strategic guidance, stewardship, and accountability to ensure Graze Academy operates with integrity, compassion, and long-term sustainability, so we can continue expanding access to equine-assisted mental health services for those who need it most.
Chris Ciulla, Founder & President of WeCulture Brands
Graze Academy, Vice President
Meredith Benedict,
Principal
Clifton Larson Allen LLP
Graze Academy, Treasurer
​Alison Hamm, Broker/Owner, Atlas South Bay Realty
Graze Academy, Fundraising Director
Melanie Colón, CEO of Rise Up Solutions & Coaching
Graze Acadmey, Assistant Treasurer