Impact and Outreach Committee
Melissa Conner
Melissa Conner is an accomplished nonprofit executive and equine-assisted services leader with more than two decades of experience advancing mission-driven organizations. Since 2013, she has served as Executive Director of Renew Therapeutic Riding Center in Holland, Michigan, where she has overseen transformative growth, expanded community impact, and led the organization to earn PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center status. Under her leadership, Renew successfully completed two phases of its Ride with Renew Capital Campaign, raising $2.8 million to strengthen programs and facilities.
A PATH Intl. Master Instructor and Faculty member, Melissa is recognized nationally as a subject matter expert, evaluator, and thought leader in equine-assisted services. She has facilitated workshops, authored publications, and presented at conferences across the country, contributing to the advancement of best practices in the field. Beyond program development, she brings deep expertise in fundraising, board development, financial stewardship, and cultivating high-performing teams.
Previously, Melissa held leadership roles at Dream Catchers at the Cori Sikich Therapeutic Riding Center in Virginia and served as Director of the Friendship House at Western Theological Seminary, an inclusive living community for adults with cognitive impairments. Early in her career, she worked in legislative policy and higher education, building a foundation of advocacy, strategy, and public engagement.
Melissa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and English from the University of Richmond, graduating cum laude in just three years. She has been selected for multiple leadership cohorts, including Leading by Design and the Lakeshore Nonprofit Alliance DEI Leadership program, reflecting her ongoing commitment to growth and innovation.
Married to Benjamin Conner, PhD, she is the proud mother of four grown children. Outside of work, she enjoys equestrian activities, open water and masters swimming, hiking, strength training, and writing.
“The mission and vision of HHRF aligns with my own core values and resonates with my work in EAS. The beauty of the horse-human relationship is worthy of research and the outcomes need to be made known. HHRF is the best vehicle to accomplish this goal.”
Rebecca M. Didier
Rebecca (Becca) M. Didier is a uniquely qualified publishing and communications specialist with a powerful ability to develop, manage , and clearly convey authentic messaging internally, externally, and across platforms. Rebecca was a managing editor and graphic designer of the leading equestrian book publisher for 25 years. She has now co-founded a book packaging business- Dirt Roads LLC.
“There are so many ways access to horses can improve human well-being. Research proving those benefits has the power to change lives.”
Katie Gillies
Katie Gillies brings two decades of experience in the higher education sector, where she has been dedicated to enhancing the experiences of prospective students across a variety of institutions. With a strong background in sales management, systems, and marketing, she is a master of consumer experience. Katie is passionate about driving innovation and actively supports initiatives that integrate new technologies in enrollment and higher education, contributing to significant student growth for some of the largest healthcare schools in the industry.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Katie is an avid equine enthusiast, having spent her childhood on horseback. She resides in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband, son, daughter (who shares her passion for riding), and three dogs. Committed to both animal and human health, Katie holds multiple certifications in fitness and health coaching.
"My passion for horses drives my commitment to the mission of HHRF. I believe that understanding horse-human interactions is essential not only for improving the well-being of these magnificent animals but also for enhancing the health and quality of life for people involved in equine interactions. I love that HHRF is bridging the gap between what most equine enthusiasts know, that horses are magic, with the SCIENCE that backs this up.
This mission resonates deeply with me, as I strive to contribute to a world where the bond between horses and people is nurtured, celebrated, and can be calculated!"
Gloria Gonzalez
Gloria Gonzalez was born and raised in Puerto Rico and moved to South Carolina after college. She is the South Carolina Regional Marketing and Design Specialist for William Raveis Real Estate, bringing with her more than a decade of experience in the design and advertising industry. Between marketing roles, Gloria followed her love for horses and worked as a full-time riding instructor, earning her CTRI certification through PATH and a coaching certification from Special Olympics. With a blend of creative expertise and equestrian passion, she’s committed to helping this committee excel.
John Kundtz
John Kundtz, HHRF Board President. Weathering over 40 years of corporate and nonprofit transformation, John brings experienced leadership and a strategic mindset to the boardroom. A retired IBM executive with 38 years of experience in global technology sales, he now focuses his energy on mentoring nonprofit leaders, advising mission-driven organizations, and sharing insights on governance and strategy through writing and speaking.
As Board President of the Horses and Humans Research Foundation, John builds on a long-standing commitment to the equine-assisted services community. His previous board service includes Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center and Three Corner Round Pack Outfitters, both of which reflect his dedication to advancing global understanding of horse-human interactions and their impact on the health and well-being of both humans and horses.
A passionate advocate for exceptional nonprofit governance, John also contributes thought leadership through podcasts and writing that explore how design-driven strategic planning and strong board leadership can create meaningful alignment between mission, boards, and stakeholders.
In his spare time, John enjoys trekking in places as remote as Nepal, hiking local trails, visiting major league baseball stadiums, and discovering new craft breweries. Whether on the trail, in the stands, or over a well-crafted pint, he remains curious, reflective, and eager to connect ideas across communities and causes.
“I have experienced firsthand the truly amazing life-changing benefits that children and adults have realized through horse-human interactions, and as a research scientist, I believe that continued rigorous research is needed to propagate these benefits globally.”
Grace Stein
Grace Stein spent her formative years immersed in the world of horses, where she developed a strong work ethic, emotional intelligence, and a deep respect for connection — all qualities that now serve her well in her career in sales. Her early experiences in the barn taught her how to lead with empathy, navigate challenges with patience, and build trust — whether with a horse or a client. While her professional path has taken her into the corporate world, her passion for equine-assisted healing and human development remains a core part of who she is.
“For many people it's unexplainable why we are drawn to horses and the healing powers they have. HHRF bridges the gap of the unexplainable by giving a voice to the Horse and a platform to research!”
Bess Sullivan
Bess Sullivan grew up in Cleveland, OH and graduated Cum Laude from University of Kentucky. She has a degree in business management with a minor in political science. She has been a competitive Equestrian since age five, receiving top honors in all three rings. Her horse is named Steal and is the light of her life.
“Horses have profoundly shaped my life. Supporting HHRF means helping others experience that same healing connection. That mission couldn’t matter more to me. “
Pebbles Turbeville
Dr. Pebbles Turbeville recently completed her Doctorate in Sports Management with an emphasis in Leadership. She received her master’s degree from NC State, and her BA from Columbia College.
Previously, she was the Associate Professor and Chair of the Sport Studies Department at St. Andrews University where she has taught students in the field of Therapeutic Horsemanship. She is and has been an adjunct professor and consultant for other higher education institutions in the field of Equine Studies.
Pebbles served on the NARHA Board and on several committees for *PATH Intl. She has certifications from PATH Intl. as an Advanced Instructor, a Mentor Faculty, as Associate Faculty for the PATH Intl. Advanced certification and Lead Faculty for Registered On-Site Workshop/Certification and Mentor Training. She has presented at different national, regional, and state conferences on several topics in the Therapeutic Horsemanship field.
One of her favorite hobbies is equine and nature photography. Pebbles has been published regionally, nationally, and internationally in American Horse, Dressage Today, Horse Illustrated, PATH Intl. Strides, Horse of Kings, Stable Mates, RDA New South Wales postcards, and the cover of Southeast Equine. Pebbles has witnessed as well as heard the testimonies of instructors, therapists, participants, and caregivers of the benefits of EAAT.
*PATH Intl. – Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship – formerly known as NARHA
Lauren West
Lauren West is a Tax Manager in PwC's Washington National Tax Services, Exempt Organization Tax Services practice and is based in Pittsburgh, PA. Lauren provides tax compliance and consulting advice to tax-exempt health systems, universities, and pension trusts, including their related corporate, joint venture, and international affiliates. She provides services at the federal, state, and international jurisdictions. Lauren is an enrolled agent with the IRS.
"I believe that animals and humans can heal each other, I have seen it personally throughout my life. HHRF supports research that will continue to show the world human-animal interactions are important."