MEET OUR PEOPLE!
OUR STAFF MEMBERS
Staff members consist of highly trained PATH Intl certified therapeutic riding instructors and equine specialists in mental health and learning. The team is committed to providing customized care, and is supported by a strong and talented volunteer base.
Executive Director and co-founder
PATH Intl. Advanced Instructor, PATH Intl. ESMHL
HEATHER HERNANDEZ SEDILLO
Heather has been a passionate member of the equine-assisted services (EAS) industry since 2004. Prior to her Co-Founding Reining Strength, she served as Co-Director at Texas Tech University’s Therapeutic Riding Center where she was on faculty in the Animal Science Department. She is a PATH Intl. Advanced Instructor and PATH Intl. Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. Heather also is Equine Assisted Growth and Learning (EAGALA) trained. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Baylor University and a Master’s in Education in Community Counseling from Texas Tech University.
Heather serves on various committees including the PATH Intl. Riding Certification Sub-Committee and the Equine Advisory Board for Tarleton State University. Additionally, Heather serves on the board for the Central Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce where she was board member of the year in 2021. Heather recently published a textbook for the EAS industry that she and two others co-authored: The Comprehensive Guide to Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies, which is the first peer-reviewed textbook of its kind.
PATH Intl. CTRI & PATH Intl. ESMHL
Head Instructor & Equine Manager
RICHARD SEDILLO "RD"
RD has been a life-long equestrian gaining experience on the racetrack in New Mexico with his father who is also a trainer. In 2011, he became the youngest trainer to have horse in the All-American Derby.
In 2014, he began working for Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship as the Equine and Facilities Manager. He is PATH Intl. CTRI and Equine Specialist in Metal Health and Learning. Additionally, he trains riders as a Special Olympics Equestrian Coach.
KAITLIN KRISTIANSSON
PATH Intl. CTRI & ESMHL
PATH Intl. CTRI
JULIE LONG
Julie has always loved horses (all animals actually!). This was what first led her to volunteering at Reining Strength in 2021. However, the more she volunteered, the more she realized the amazing impact of therapeutic horsemanship. After retiring from a 30-year career in dentistry, Julie joined the team at Reining Strength in 2023. Since that time, Julie has become a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor.
In addition to being a riding instructor, she is also responsible for equine therapy where she helps to make sure the horses are healthy and ready for their next ride. The ability to combine her desire to help others and to work with the animals is a perfect match for her.
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Julie has a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from Texas A&M University and a DDS degree from the University of Texas School of Dentistry. She is excited to be able to draw from her healthcare background while caring for the equine staff at Reining Strength while learning from and caring for our clients of all ages.
PATH Intl. CTRI
ALLY CATES
Ally’s passion for horses started at a young age, having her first friend, Buddy, before the age of one. She was even known to hitch a ride on a cow in her family’s pasture if found lying down. Horses quickly became a safe space for Ally, providing freedom and an unbreakable connection.
It wasn’t long before Ally discovered the relationships built between horses and people can provide physical, mental and emotional benefits. This opened a door to connect her passion for horses and helping people. Ally’s parents inspired her to find a career that she loved, “if you are doing what you enjoy, you will never work a day in your life.” That is what she found in therapeutic horsemanship.
Ally is a CTRI through PATH Intl. at Reining Strength and pursuing her ESMHL and EAL micro-credentials.
Volunteer Coordinator
DONNA JONES
Donna has always had a passion for children and volunteering. She had an in-home daycare for 13 years and is still in contact with most of “her kids” who are now adults with kids of their own. She spent years volunteering in schools as a mentor and reader to classes as well as with kids and the youth in church. She is a lifetime committeeman for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo serving on committees since 1985.
After giving up her daycare business she spent the next 25 years working for major Oil and Gas companies in facilities and as Executive Assistant to CEO/President. Donna started as a Reining Strength volunteer in 2021 and is thrilled to be on staff as the Volunteer Coordinator. It has been a great opportunity for her to bring together her passion for children and volunteering.
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Donna lives in Richmond with her husband, Tommy Winkler. She is mom to two and loves being "Nonnie" to her 5 year old grandson. Her favorite past times include singing, dancing, being outdoors, floating in her pool and rivers and most especially spending time with family and friends.
Office Admin
DANA PETERSON
Development Coordinator
LACY MCKALE
ALISA FRANKS
Office Administrator & PATH Intl. ESMHL
Alisa is a 2005 graduate of Texas A&M University having earned degrees in Political Science and Psychology. Shortly after graduation she moved to Washington, D.C. and joined the office of Senator John Cornyn. Alisa served in various capacities during her seven years with the senator including, correspondence manager and legislative aide. In 2012, she relocated back to the Houston area and worked in both non-profit development and government affairs. She began volunteering for Reining Strength in 2014. Alisa currently works part-time in various capacities including billing and facilitating EAL sessions.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Thomas Hernandez – President
Margaret Hernandez
Karen Elkins
Anne Gregory
Kevin Jones
Shelby Peterson
