Board of Directors

  • Jerald Hess

    Associate General Counsel, Apex Clean Energy

    Jerald (J.) grew up in a world full of 4-wheelers and motorcycles rather than horses, but thankfully has been open and willing to see the power and joy that sharing space with equines can bring (he started his journey on a mule named Scooter!). J. has always been driven to give back to his community as demonstrated by his experience as a volunteer (and then staff member) of the Eckerd College Search and Rescue Team, his award as the DC Bar Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year 2010/2011, his work as a public defender in Richmond from 2017-2020, and his membership in the James River Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists. J previously worked on clean energy and climate change issues for the Virginia Attorney General’s Office and Now works as an Associate Counsel for Apex Clean Energy in Charlottesville, Virginia. J.’s myriad community service experiences provide insights and ideas that are endlessly beneficial to Labyrinth Training Center’s ability to accomplish its mission.

  • Kate O'Donnell

    Executive Coach, Dominion

    Kate O’Donnell is passionate about helping people and organizations be the best versions of themselves. She inspires those around her to think critically, relate generously, and achieve high expectations that fulfill their internal goals and external demands in a way that honors their whole selves. Kate has extensive expertise in building cultures of belonging, developing learning organizations, change management, and results-based leadership. Both a systems thinker and attentive to people’s inner worlds, she listens deeply to what is said and unsaid, helping Labyrinth clarify the way our core values, dreams, and expectations drive our immediate next steps and longer-term goals.

  • Maria Delicata

    No Title Could Ever Encompass It All

    Maria grew up as a working student for an eight-time U.S. Equestrian Team Pairs Champion (driving) and with the mentorship of her wonderful horse, Josh (pictured). In college, she worked for the Department of Child and Family Services where she parented girls between the ages of 13-16, who were in the custody of the state. She is raising four children and has fostered over a dozen children in the meantime. She has simultaneously fostered and re-homed over 40 canines! Maria combines the unique perspective of the needs of parents with children facing difficult emotional experiences and the real-world experience of the power of horses as healers. Labyrinth Training Center is beyond grateful that Maria is willing to give even more to help carry out its mission successfully.

  • Marsha Pryor

    Director of Administration, Elk Hill

    Marsha has always dreamed of horses and veterinarian medicine her entire life.  She attended Virginia Tech on the Pre-Vet track to achieve her Bachelor’s in Animal Science and Master’s in Food Science and Technology.  Although life took a detour, she and her family own and operate a farm with various animals and hay production.  Her passion to make a difference continues with animal rescue and her 18-year career with Elk Hill, currently the Director of Administration.  Elk Hill enables over 900 youth and families each year to transform overwhelming challenges into successful futures through specialized education, community-based services and residential treatment programs. Children and families | Elk Hill.  She has been a tireless volunteer (and donor) for LTC and we are humbled that she agreed to join our board.

  • Sheri Blankenship

    Retired, Vice-President, Suntrust Bank

    Sheri was born and raised in Virginia and fell in love with horses early in life - especially with the help of a special pony named Ginny. Although Sheri worked hard throughout her 29-year banking career, she always found time and enjoyed volunteering for various causes and fundraisers. Sheri also loves camping, hiking, traveling, and spending time weekly with her "spa day" buddies at Labyrinth Training Center. Sheri’s career in the financial industry combined with her love for horses and dedication to giving back to her community makes her an unbelievable asset to Labyrinth Training Center.

  • Renee Hoyos

    Renee is an environmental professional with over 20 years of experience managing day-to-day operations of a not for profit organization and implementing and enforcing the Clean Water Act and other federal environmental laws and policies. Additionally, Renee has working knowledge of biology, ecology, geology as it relates to environmental policy. Renee’s love for horses runs in her family as her grandfather gifted her her first pony, which led to her first horse, which led her to Labyrinth, which led her to agree to serve on the board as a steward for the land and an advocate for the horses!

Meet Our Founder/CEO

Alexandra Hess, Founder/CEO

Alexandra has owned horses for over 35 years and has earned her USDF Bronze Medal in dressage.  She has volunteered with horse rescues for over two decades by serving on the Board for Days End Farm Horse Rescue or fostering and training horses for rehoming for several reputable horse rescues.  Founding Labyrinth Training Center harmonizes her equine experience with the gratitude for the gifts horses have bestowed by opening up the opportunity for others to experience the same.