Riverside Sheriff’s Mounted Posse Brings Heart, Horses, and Tradition to MVC Commencement

When the Riverside County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse appeared at Moreno Valley College’s commencement, the cheers weren’t just for the graduates.

For the third consecutive year, the Cabazon Station troop of the San Gorgonio Pass Posse supported MVC’s commencement, offering guests and graduates alike a chance to engage with the volunteer equestrian team, many for the first time.

Among those in uniform this year was Laurie Crouse, business services administrative coordinator and member of the Cabazon Posse since 2023. Mounted on her horse Kona, Crouse joined her fellow volunteers in a display that was more than ceremonial; it was about connection.

“Being able to engage with the community from the back of a well-trained horse is a unique and enriching experience,” Crouse said. “It is a privilege to represent the Riverside sheriff’s office in such a positive and memorable way.”

Established to serve the community through public relations, search and rescue, patrols, and event support, today’s mounted posse continues a tradition that dates back more than 300 years. The word “posse,” derived from posse comitatus, reflects the spirit of community volunteers aiding county sheriffs.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse remains deeply committed to public service. Volunteers like Crouse attend monthly training sessions and complete annual equestrian qualifications at the Ben Clark Training Center. They serve at parades, safety events, charity fundraisers, and, yes, even college graduations.

“We help create lasting memories not only for the graduates, faculty, and college employees, but for the extended families who gather to honor this significant milestone,” Crouse said. “Every moment reaffirmed the power of connection and community.”

Her sentiments are echoed by fellow posse members.

Bonnie Minder, who joined the Cabazon Posse in 2021, said it’s not just about the horses, but the way the community interacts with them.

“Most of the students and family members have never been close to a horse,” Minder said. “They were able to take pictures, pet the horses, and now have a memory they’ll cherish from the day they graduated.”

Linda Musselman, who became a member in 2022, added: “It allows me to be around other horse-savvy people while also contributing to the community’s well-being and safety.”

Lilly Gonzalez became a member in 2023, volunteering in hopes of one day becoming a deputy sheriff.

“It’s truly an honor to represent the department while riding my horse,” Gonzalez said. “My favorite part is seeing kids’ faces light up when they see us. I’ll never forget the smiles.”

For Stephen and Amy Causey, both of whom have been members since 2017, the posse’s participation in local events, such as MVC’s commencement, is about more than visibility.

“It’s very helpful to show a positive and safe environment,” Stephen Causey said. 

“Hopefully, it plants the idea in someone’s mind about becoming a volunteer — or even a future sheriff.”

Amy Causey agreed.

“Graduations are a joy,” she said. “I always remind the students to give back. You never know who might need your support.”

As MVC looks ahead to future commencements, the mounted posse remains ready to serve, on horseback, in uniform, and with an open heart for the community they represent.

“I’m already looking forward to next year,” Crouse said with a smile.

Inspired by Laurie Crouse and the Mounted Posse? Discover the many ways MVC employees contribute to making our college community special. Whether you’re thinking about enrolling or just want to learn more, MVC is here to support you every step of the way.