Meet Our Board

Stacie Nichols brings nearly 50 years of experience working with horses and over two decades as an Equine Bodywork professional and recently certified as an Equine Nutrition Practitioner. As the founder of Operation Second Stride, she blends her lifelong passion for horses with a deep understanding of the needs of first responders, drawn from her 40-year partnership with her husband Tom, a retired firefighter of 35 years, and their family’s long-standing dedication to public service. Stacie’s commitment to trauma-informed care and her training in Natural Lifemanship form the foundation of the program’s mission: to support healing, connection, and resilience through the powerful bond between humans and horses— especially off-track thoroughbreds whose journeys parallel those of the first responders with whom they now form meaningful partnerships.

Sarah brings a powerful combination of equine expertise and therapeutic insight to Operation Second Stride. As a former Program Director for the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation’s Second Chance Farm at Central Maryland Correctional Facility, she integrates her background in steeplechasing and hunt club management with years of experience as a drug counselor. Grounded in the principles and practice of Natural Lifemanship, Sarah has integrated trauma-informed methods rooted in Natural Lifemanship into her work for several years, supporting both human and equine healing through relationship-based work.

Joanne Rund brings over 38 years of fire service leadership to Operation Second Stride, most recently serving as the first female Fire Chief of Baltimore County, overseeing more than 3,000 personnel and a $124 million budget. A longtime advocate for firefighter wellness and safety, Joanne now serves as the Family Programs Director for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Her extensive experience in public safety, health and leadership training, and her deep commitment to first responder families make her a vital connection between the program and the communities it serves.

Terry Smack is a respected retired business owner and community advocate from Westminster, Maryland, with over 33 years in the automotive industry as founder of Terry’s Tag and Title Service, LLC. Known for her resilience and compassion, Terry has overcome personal adversity to become a dedicated supporter of local causes, including veterans, Carroll Hospital patients, and individuals facing financial hardship. Her leadership and philanthropic spirit bring valuable community perspective and outreach strength to the Operation Second Stride board.

With over 53 years of experience in the horse world and more than 30 years as an instructor, Beth brings a deep well of wisdom, compassion, and connection to Operation Second Stride. From her early days teaching at a local barn to learning under Olympic team coaches, retired military officers, and other elite horsemen, Beth’s journey has been defined by her passion for teaching and her ability to build lasting relationships within the equine community. Her insights and network continue to support and enrich our mission.

Shirlyn brings a deep commitment to community and family to her role on the board of Operation Second Stride. As Vice President and Office Manager of Robin-Ford Building & Remodeling, she plays an integral role in the daily operations and long-term vision of the company, collaborating closely with her husband Robin. A lifelong horse enthusiast with over 20 years of experience, Shirlyn also holds strong ties within the local equine and business communities. Her grounded leadership and community-driven mindset are a valued asset to the mission of Operation Second Stride.

An avid horsewoman for over 20 years, Cacie has spent the last 15 years working closely with thoroughbreds, combining her passion for equine care with a deep commitment to service. As a charge nurse in a busy emergency department, she brings extensive clinical experience in trauma response, acute care, and patient education. Her background also includes correctional and community-based nursing, with specialized skills in crisis management. Cacie exemplifies the resilience and compassion that mirror the mission of Operation Second Stride—supporting first responders and thoroughbreds through connection and healing.

Jess brings a unique blend of professional expertise and heartfelt passion to Operation Second Stride. With over 25 years of experience in law, tax, and finance, she offers a deep commitment to financial accuracy, accountability, and stewardship—critical components in the role of Secretary/Treasurer. Jess’s connection to the equestrian world began through her children, who spent over a decade immersed in riding lessons and volunteering at local barns. Now that they are in college, Jess is excited to stay involved in the equine community while giving back in a meaningful way. Her admiration for First Responders, combined with a genuine love of horses and a strong sense of service, makes her a natural fit for supporting the mission and integrity of Operation Second Stride.

Dr. Barbara Eidel brings decades of trusted community presence and veterinary expertise to Operation Second Stride. A Purdue University graduate and respected small animal veterinarian in Reisterstown since 1987, Dr. Eidel is known for her compassionate care, owner education, and commitment to wellness. As a business leader at Mountainside Veterinary Hospital and an avid horsewoman, she strengthens local partnerships and supports our mission through both her professional network and personal passion for animals.