Missy Carter, Director of Membership and Marketing at The Saticoy Club, joined the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2019. She brings her enthusiasm and talent for fundraising to the organization.

“From the first time I stepped foot on the Ranch I knew I wanted to make a difference. It’s a magical feeling when you are at Carousel Ranch; I am so impressed with the therapy and the results achieved for the children and young adults with special needs. Joining the Board was a natural next step.”

Steffanie Stelnick, founder of the Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick, directs all civil litigation operations at The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick. Ms. Stelnick is personally involved in every case and ensure that each client receives impeccable representation.

Ms. Stelnick’s core belief is that focusing on the client is critical to the litigation process. Insurance companies, as well as negligent doctors, manufactures and corporations all benefit from strong legal representation. A client without an attorney who aggressively pursued their client’s rights will rarely operate on an even playing field in court. Our clients’ needs remain paramount every day of practice at The Law Offices of Steffanie Stelnick.

Marianne Cederlind, Executive Vice President and Chief Business Banking Officer with Mission Valley Bank, joined the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2011. She has served as the organization’s president for three 2-year terms. Through her leadership, Carousel Ranch is stronger and more sustainable than at any other point in its history. Marianne led Carousel Ranch through a successful Capital Campaign for a covered arena, launched the Annual Giving Campaign, and began the Ready to Work and Ready to Grow programs giving vocational training and workplace skills to young adults with disabilities.

“I share in Carousel Ranch’s vision and passion for making a difference in the lives of children with disabilities. My goal is to bring Carousel Ranch to the next level in its evolution, creating long term sustainability and continued growth in the years to come.”

Evan Faucette, partner with KKAJ Certified Public Accountants and a member of the managing partner group, joined the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2019 and serves as the organization’s Treasurer. He brings his expertise in accounting and tax-related matters to the board, as well as a heart for the mission of bettering the lives of children and young adults with special needs.

“In the short period of time I’ve been involved with the Ranch, I have been amazed with not only the mission it seeks to accomplish, but also by the diligent effort made by everyone associated with the organization to ensure this happens. From its equestrian therapy to the Ready to Work program, I value the Ranch’s efforts to make life more enjoyable and meaningful for the riders and students, as well as their families. The satisfaction and fulfillment employees and board members realize are simply a byproduct of accomplishments of those they serve.”

Wayne Crawford has been a supporter of Carousel Ranch since near its inception, playing a vital role in procuring the organization's permanent home in Agua Dulce. A tireless campaigner for the Ranch, Wayne is responsible for raising the Ranch's public profile and connecting it to the community it serves. Whether he is getting his hands dirty on a tractor helping grade the property or driving fundraising efforts, Wayne is always there for Carousel kids.

“My wife, Dianne, and I are proud that our youngest grandson, Caynen, is able to benefit from the amazing therapy opportunities available on the back of a Carousel Ranch horse.”

Laura Kirchhoff is the Program and Event Manager for the Northridge Hospital Foundation and has lived in Santa Clarita with her husband Bryan since 1982 where they raised their two children. Laura has an extensive background in non profit management, fundraising, event management, marketing, business development and community relation. Laura has served the business community with her roles in the Chamber of Commerce and the Valley Industry Association. Having always taught her children the importance of giving back and serving the underserved, Laura has always been very active in the community, donating her time to numerous nonprofit organizations.

“Carousel Ranch has always had a very special place in my heart ever since seeing the difference they make in the lives of so many children and their families in our community. When asked to serve on the Board of Directors for the organization, it was a very easy answer to say yes. It is my honor to be able to bring my passion for fundraising and service to Carousel Ranch and to contribute to the success of the organization so these children will benefit from the services they provide for years to come.”

Briana Kochen, a Senior Director of Salon Development at John Paul Mitchell Systems, became a member of the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2023. In addition to her role at JPMS, she is a small business owner in the local community and is actively contributing to its well-being.

Briana is known for her love for animals and her commitment to charitable causes. She brings a valuable aspect of diversity to the board, ensuring a wide range of perspectives. She strongly believes in maintaining an open line of communication with individuals who are underserved and lack resources due to their disabilities. Briana aims to give back to the community in any way she can, utilizing her position and resources to make a positive impact.

"As a parent with a child who has a disability, the therapy done at Carousel Ranch and how they improve these children's lives deeply touches my soul. I truly believe a life lived helping others is a life worthwhile, which is what I saw when I came to the ranch for the first time. Being invited to be a part of that is an absolute dream."

Shannon Mee, the co-owner of Egg Plantation Restaurant in Newhall for the last 24 years. Opened the restaurant after I completed my graduate degree in Psychology from Loyal Marymount University. I joined the Carousel Ranch Board in November 2023. I am a mother of three and have always been passionate about giving back to the community. Children and especially children with special needs has been near and dear to me so becoming a helping partner in Carousel Ranch was an easy decision for me. While attending university and graduate school I taught and worked with children and it was truly rewarding.

"I believe that Carousel Ranch offers Children a wide range of therapy, training and education and I can’t wait to see some of the ideas I have helped with come to fruition. I look forward to contributing to the areas that the ranch need my help and in return I am hoping to learn from the other board members on how to navigate the ever changing needs of the Ranch and Children."

Stacy Nochenson, a commercial Interior Designer specializing in healthcare and ADA requirements, is a Founding Board member of Carousel Ranch. Her love of entertaining, desire to please and provide the best experience for those attending Carousel Ranch events has led to 20+ years coordinating and overseeing the dinner at the annual Heart of the West. She is also corporate Secretary of the Board.

“These children face challenges I didn't even know existed, yet they experience great joy. My heart is overwhelmed by the incredible smiles this simple recreation brings. It has always been a privilege to serve on this board and participate in the incredible service Carouse Ranch provides.”

Darin Seegmiller is a seasoned professional with a strong background in community engagement and public administration, particularly through his work with the City of Santa Clarita. With nearly twenty years of experience in project management and a passion for community service, Darin is eager to bring his insights and skills to Carousel Ranch as a board member. His role in the city has provided him with valuable experience and cherished relationships, allowing him to effectively foster partnerships that drive meaningful change.

With a unique blend of strategic thinking and a heartfelt commitment to service, Darin aims to help the organization implement programs and projects that will sustain its impact well into the future. Darin is excited to join the Carousel Ranch community and contribute to its impactful mission.

Bryan Steiner, a financial advisor with Thrivent Financial, joined the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2015. He has been instrumental in crafting a succession plan for the organization so Carousel Ranch can continue helping children generations into the future.

“For anyone not familiar with the work of Carousel Ranch, I highly recommend a visit to see what they do first hand. It was after seeing and hearing from parents the impact Carousel Ranch has had on their children's lives that I knew I wanted to become involved and help support their work.”

Eric Stroh, Vice President of Santa Clarita Concrete, joined the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2006. He served as president of the nonprofit for five years, vice president for six years, involved in the signature Heart of the West event, and created and chaired the How the West Was Won Trap Shoot event the past 10 years raising nearly $300,000 from that one event. It was his daughter Jolie’s obsession with horses that first brought Eric to Carousel Ranch. Together, they have given hours of love and support to the Ranch. Under Eric’s leadership, the ranch overcame numerous challenges and changes. He led them through their property purchase, renovations and improvements, and the building of the long-awaited covered arena.

“It would be impossible to say ‘no’ to the kids of Carousel Ranch, and I love spending time on the Ranch. Everything about this special place represents a labor of love from the students to the horses to the community supporters and donors.”

Denny Twigg is the visionary founder and CEO of Rogue 5 Benefits Solutions, with a decade of dedicated service in aiding businesses across the nation. Denny joined the Carousel Ranch Board of Directors in 2023.

Beyond the boardroom, he's a devoted father to five children, two of whom are on the Autism spectrum, and one of which is currently in the RTW program. Denny channels his passion into supporting Carousel Ranch and the Ready to Work program, striving to expand their invaluable services. His commitment to philanthropy extends to supporting Aflac's Children's Cancer Hospital and Soroptimist cancer programs, embodying his belief in making meaningful contributions to the community.

“As a parent who has witnessed firsthand, the magic of the programs Carousel Ranch has provided to my son and the positive impact it has made in improving his lifelong independent living skills, how could I not be involved."

Rosalind Wayman has lived in the SCV for most of her life. She grew up on a ranch riding horses and helping my dad round up horses. She has known about Carousel Ranch for 10 to 15 years. Now that she is retired she is looking forward to being involved with “Ranch Things.”

I have been asked to join the Board and excited to learn more about the behind the workings of running a program like Carousel.

When I was first invited to “Heart of the West”, I could not believe the number of volunteers, Board members, and people from far and wide that attended the event! I knew that I wanted to be part of Carousel Ranch! And now I am. Thank you for the honor.