Facilitators
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Dr. Veronica I. Ent
Educator • Researcher • Advocate for Faith-Based Equine and Nature-Assisted Arts Therapy Dr. Veronica I. Ent is a Professor of Education where she is dedicated to integrating creative, nature-based approaches into teacher preparation and personal development. Her academic research explores art education, instructional technology, visual media for learning, blended teaching models, and the history of American schooling--grounded in a deep commitment to faith and holistic healing. Dr. Ent holds an Ed.D. in Instructional Design and Technology (Instruction and Learning) from the University of Pittsburgh. She also earned two master’s degrees from Ohio University--an M.A. in Art Education and an M.Ed. in Curriculum--as well as a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Equestrian Studies from the University of Findlay. Her background uniquely blends educational innovation with the healing power of equine interaction, nature, and expressive arts. |
At Saint Vincent College, Dr. Ent teaches courses in art education, arts and performance for early educators, educational foundations, educator wellness, and disciplinary literacy. Beyond the academic setting, she leads a small horse and riding program on her 350-acre historic farmstead in Saltsburg, Pennsylvania. There, she works with individuals of all ages and abilities, using horses, nature, and creative expression to support healing, growth, and spiritual reflection.
As the executive director of a family-run 501(c)(3) foundation, Dr. Ent also oversees the preservation of a one-room schoolhouse and carriage museum which also contains her late mother's art collection located on her farm. This work furthers her mission of connecting education, arts, heritage, and faith-centered restoration in a setting rich with history and natural beauty.
Through her faith-led practice, Dr. Ent combines equine interaction, nature-assisted arts, and spiritual guidance to help individuals navigate trauma, release stress, and reconnect with purpose. Her work is rooted in the belief that God's presence is powerfully revealed through creation, creativity, and compassionate community.
As the executive director of a family-run 501(c)(3) foundation, Dr. Ent also oversees the preservation of a one-room schoolhouse and carriage museum which also contains her late mother's art collection located on her farm. This work furthers her mission of connecting education, arts, heritage, and faith-centered restoration in a setting rich with history and natural beauty.
Through her faith-led practice, Dr. Ent combines equine interaction, nature-assisted arts, and spiritual guidance to help individuals navigate trauma, release stress, and reconnect with purpose. Her work is rooted in the belief that God's presence is powerfully revealed through creation, creativity, and compassionate community.
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Amanda Sowa, RN
Mental Health Nursing Specialist • Christian Faith Guidance • Advocate for Arts and Therapeutic care Amanda Sowa is a compassionate and seasoned Registered Nurse with 28 years of diverse experience in nursing, including leadership, medical-surgical care, mental health, hospice nursing, and nursing education. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in nursing with the goal of advancing innovative, evidence-based practices that elevate the quality of patient care. Amanda brings a deeply holistic perspective to her work, rooted in the belief that healing must address the emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions of every individual. Her passion for hospice care reflects her calling to walk alongside patients and families during life’s most sacred and vulnerable transitions--offering comfort, dignity, and presence grounded in faith and compassion. |
A strong advocate for faith-based therapy and spiritual guidance, Amanda integrates these values into every aspect of her practice. She is particularly passionate about the healing power of expressive arts therapy and has seen its profound impact on individuals navigating trauma, grief, and mental health challenges. Through hosting faith-centered retreats and therapeutic workshops, she creates spaces for women to reconnect, express, and heal through God’s presence and creative reflection.
In addition to being a nurse leader, Amanda is a certified Resiliency Life Coach and A Window Between Worlds Facilitator in which she guides children and teens through expressive arts programs that help process trauma, grief, and challenging life experiences. Through creative activities such as visual art, storytelling, and journaling, she creates a safe, nurturing space where participants explore their emotions, build resilience, and cultivate hope. Her work fosters emotional wellness, spiritual growth, and healthy coping skills, empowering participants to navigate life’s challenges with strength and creativity.
In addition to being a nurse leader, Amanda is a certified Resiliency Life Coach and A Window Between Worlds Facilitator in which she guides children and teens through expressive arts programs that help process trauma, grief, and challenging life experiences. Through creative activities such as visual art, storytelling, and journaling, she creates a safe, nurturing space where participants explore their emotions, build resilience, and cultivate hope. Her work fosters emotional wellness, spiritual growth, and healthy coping skills, empowering participants to navigate life’s challenges with strength and creativity.