New Team Members Join the APHA Staff Family

By Josie Fladager, PHJ

APHA recently welcomed new members to its staff team in a variety of roles.

Josi Reed (above photo, right) joins the APHA team as director of amateur and youth activities. Growing up in Southern Illinois, Josie always enjoyed horse showing and competitive judging; she continued these passions through college. After completing a master’s degree in agriculture at West Texas A&M University, Josi returned to Northeastern Oklahoma A&M University, where she earned her associate’s degree, to serve as head coach of the IHSA equestrian team, among other roles. She still owns horses and is ready to jump into her new role at APHA.

“I am excited to use my experience to do my part in promoting the American Paint Horse, while providing our members with a positive experience. I am honored to be able to work with such a dedicated and diverse team,” Josi said.

Kathryn Allen (above photo, left) is APHA’s manager of retail operations. After attending college at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, Kathryn had unique opportunities to work in government and with non-profit organizations. Originally from a small town in Illinois, Kathryn says she feels right at home in the Fort Worth Stockyards and is eager to build on her knowledge surrounding horses.

“I can’t wait to continue to learn and soak in the rich history of the Paint Horse, while working to spread the brand and share the Western experience with more people,” Kathryn said.

Nikki Miller and Fernanda Briseno (above photo, center right and left respectively) joined APHA’s MemberCare team in 2021. Nikki’s extensive and practical experience with horses, especially in breeding and showing, is her best asset when helping customers. Originally from Indiana, she has lived and worked in Texas for two decades. Fernanda lived in Guadalajara, Mexico, until 2011; her family operates a breeding and showing operation, and she has a lifetime of equine experience, including competing in rodeo and English events, and practicing escaramuza charra when in Mexico. Fernanda is fluent in Spanish to serve more APHA members, and she hopes to expand APHA participation within the Mexico market.

Read more on the APHA news page: https://apha.com/news-landing/