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 & Horse Show Coordinator
STEPHANIE HARRIS
Development Coordinator
Stephanie is a dedicated young professional with a passion for giving back to her community through her career. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Community Health from The University of Texas at San Antonio, she returned to her hometown of Houston to embark on a fulfilling journey in the nonprofit sector.
Stephanie started her nonprofit experience at the Make-a-Wish Foundation, where she began as the Bilingual Wish Coordinator. Her dedication and hard work earned her a promotion to the role of Wish Experience Manager. Over the course of seven years, she played a pivotal role in granting over 700 wishes and played a crucial role in assisting with raising funds for the organization.
Driven by her desire to further her career development and new challenges, Stephanie made the decision to leave Make-A-Wish and join Reining Strength Therapeutic Horsemanship as the Development Coordinator. In this role, she looks forward to continuing to make a positive impact by leveraging her expertise in fundraising and community engagement to support Reining Strength’s mission.
Outside of the office, Stephanie finds joy in giving back to her loved ones. When she’s not engrossed in her favorite TV show or going for a run, she cherishes spending quality time with her two young children and husband. Exploring new culinary experiences is also a passion of hers, and she loves trying new foods and embarking on exciting adventures.
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.
