Rachael has over 35 years of experience working with horses. In 1992 she graduated from the Horse Management and Science program at Michigan State University. She continued her education receiving a B.S. of Animal Science, a M.B.A. in leadership studies and a Veterinary Technology degree. She was the former director of the Veterinary Technology program at Baker College. Currently she coaches the Goodrich Equestrian team and is a volunteer facilitator at Equine Escape. Rachael received her EAL/EAP certification from EAGALA founder Greg Kertsen of the O.K. Corral Series in December of 2016.  She now volunteers her time when she can to help our troubled youth and veterans.

Brian’s journey started many years ago as a Boy Scout, the saying “Do a good turn daily” has been something that he has tried to live by throughout life. His passion for horses started when his youngest daughter got him involved with horses at an early age. Throughout the years Brian has served on multiple boards including:  The Scenic Trails Council BSA, promoting camping for the Boy Scout Council. As a member of the ASHAM (American Saddlebred Horse Association of Michigan) board of directors. As well as the Vice President of Oakland County 4-H and is the coach for the Grand Blanc High School Equestrian Team.

Brian volunteered with Equine Escape over the years helping around the farm, he was asked to join the Board of Director’s in 2023. Voted in as President of the Board, he looks towards the future with the stability and growth of the program as his number one focus. With the Board of Directors at his side they have a shared vision to help promote and support Equine Escape’s EAL (Equine Assisted Learning) program.

Managing an LED lighting company based in Detroit during the day, he spends many hours working on fundraising, program sustainability and growth as well as many projects around the facility. In his free time, he loves to spend time with his family, the horses, and his jeep. He looks forward to seeing the future of Equine Escape, its equine therapists, program facilitators and clients continue the path ahead as each grows. The Board of Directors strives to serve and promote giving a “leg up” to our veterans and “at-risk” youth that we serve every day.

Susan is a retired Ophthalmology nurse and a former foster parent. After seeing the need for children who have mental illness she jumped into the child mental health world full time.

She currently is an advocate for children with mental illnesses. She sits on boards at the state and county level to educate, offer support and advocate for changes in laws to help these children and their families.

As a child Nicole’s uncle had a farm with many animals including horses. She has always had a love for horses.  Nicole found Equine Escape after a traumatic life event, seeking alternative therapy options to help work through her trauma.

Through research she found Equine Escape and the Equine Assisted Therapy method.  She reached out to the founder, Rachael.  Nicole is a program graduate and volunteers on the farm.  In January 2024 Nicole was nominated to be the secretary of the board.

Professionally, Nicole Wellman is the Executive Director of Operations and Technology for NorthGate, a local privately owned business in Flint, Mi.

Nicole has built a career of vast and diverse knowledge within the Supply Chain Services and Packaging industry, with more than 21 years at NorthGate.  Nicole specializes in leading teams and is passionate about creating holistic solutions that are customer focused and aligned with the vision and mission of NorthGate to Bless People.

Angie came to Equine Escape as a client when she brought her child that needed services. She brings a special perspective to our board. She is an animal lover, helps the senior community and is a great addition to our organization.

Angela is a military spouse and mom of a soldier. She started with Equine Escape in 2017. She was introduced to Rachael through her daughter whom started taking riding lessons. Rachael and Angela started talking about her veteran program and ways she could help. Her son joined the military his senior year and decided he would use his senior project to raise funds to help make the veterans program free to military members.