Female leadership reigns as REINS announces new executive director

FALLBROOK – The REINS board of directors announces that Kaitlyn Siewert succeeds Debbie Shinner as the executive director of REINS Therapeutic Horsemanship Program.

Siewert will lead the organization's expansion into dedicated services for veterans, displaced youth, seniors and individuals in recovery.

Dedicating her career to serving the disabled community, Siewert brings 20 years of experience as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, Program Director at REINS, and PATH International California State Chair.

Combined with her bachelor's degree in kinesiology from California State University San Marcos, master's in business administration from National University, and deep knowledge and passion for the equine-assisted services industry, she is well-positioned to help further advance the mission of REINS, an organization that has been changing lives for almost 40 years.

Most recently in her role as program director, Siewert led the organization to receiving PATH International's Premier Accreditation status. Only granted to PATH's top Therapeutic Riding centers worldwide, this achievement signifies that REINS adheres to the absolute highest standards of safety and excellence.

Siewert has also been spearheading the REINS expansion into Equine Assisted Services for Veterans, displaced youth, seniors and individuals in recovery. With the generous support of the Donegan Burns Foundation, the expansion is fully underway.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kaitlyn as our new executive director," said board president Jim Betz, "She brings substantial experience, enthusiasm, and innovation to the organization. With the recent expansion of programming, we have already seen her vision, dedication and passion come to life. On behalf of the entire board, we support Kaitlyn wholeheartedly and look forward to a successful year ahead."

"Kaitlyn will bring a wealth of expertise and passion to REINS, and I am delighted to hand the reins [wink] over to someone with her knowledge, experience, heart and deep commitment to this organization," said Shinner. "I have no doubt that REINS will be in capable hands under her leadership."

Siewert officially began her new role Jan. 1 and will manage all day-to-day operations, oversee all programming and development, while Shinner will continue to be an ambassador for REINS. Celebrations of Shinner's work and extraordinary contribution to REINS and the entire community will continue throughout the year.

Submitted by REINS Therapeutic Horsemanship Program.