Born and raised in Zurich, Switzerland. With a degree in Business and Administration, Katja has a well-rounded professional background. She has worked as an executive assistant for international companies in trade and marketing, children’s book publishing, and finance and private equity. She also has a variety of experiences, including office management, international event and travel planning, marketing, print production, and project management. She is a certified interior design color consultant and has completed numerous commercial and residential projects in addition to her professional work,

Katja has 25 years of experience with horses, including guiding wilderness horse pack trips, cattle ranch work, natural horsemanship, dressage, show tricks, and equine therapy programs. In 2022, she certified as a facilitator in Equine Assisted Learning. She is fluent in 4 languages including English, Swiss German, German, and French

Katja is married to Zach Summerlin, a federal law enforcement officer. She and Zach are the parents of Sophia (12) and Aiden (7). In 2011, the Summerlins moved from Switzerland to Hot Springs, where they bought 38 acres on Sunshine Road. The property was ideal for what would eventually become Sunshine Therapeutic Riding Center.