M. Lisa Schadt, R.N., attended Bucknell University and the Allentown Hospital School of Nursing. She worked in the medical field for seventeen years prior to founding Manito Equestrian Center. Thirteen of her years in medicine included successfully managing a busy family medical practice. Since 1994, she has created, developed and managed Manito Equestrian Center, a riding school located in South Whitehall Township, PA.

Lisa formed successful partnerships and programs with various local community agencies and schools, including Easter Seals, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown School District, Parkland School District, Lehigh and Northampton County Depts. of Human Services, Carbon-Lehigh Intermediate Unit 21, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Kidspeace, local colleges and universities, Northwestern Human Services, Marywood University School of Social Work and Equi-librium.

In 2002, she founded Manito Life Center, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to the mission of helping children surviving trauma through equine assisted therapies and nature-based programs. She presides as president of the board of directors. Her unique program is well received by the local medical and social work communities as well as the school districts whose children have benefited from her programs. Lisa Schadt has owned and worked with horses for many years and has received training through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth And Learning Association).

Lydia started riding at the age of 19 at Manito Equestrian Center. She began volunteering at the farm and quickly developed a love for horses. Lydia is now a riding instructor and the Barn Manager at Manito. She owns a Quarter Horse named Miss Oklahoma or Momo for short. Lydia teaches multiple disciplines with a focus on equitation and overall horsemanship. She takes pride in the level of care she provides to every horse on the farm.