Michelle Swenson

President

I am someone who enjoys exploring the country on horseback. I love traveling across the country with my husband, dog, and two horses.  Like many, the back country is where I feel most at peace.  Educating people on how to camp and travel with horses brings me joy.  Clearing trails of fallen trees, branches, and daylighting brings me a sense of accomplishment and pride. 

I also value spending quality time with family and friends, whether that's sharing a meal, playing games, or just catching up. Being outdoors is important to me; I love horseback riding, hiking, biking, swimming, or simply enjoying fresh air in a park.  I enjoy practicing yoga; it brings me a sense of calm and grounding. In my spare time I enjoy making quilts, saddle rack covers, bowl cozies, or hand embroidery.

Overall, I seek a balance between staying active and finding moments of calm. I enjoy meeting new people, discovering different eco systems, and embracing opportunities for growth.

Ashley Hill

Vice President

I was born and raised in Colorado Springs. I attended the University of Denver and graduated with a degree in International Studies and Anthropology. 

After exploring career options, I began working for Northwestern Mutual - Colorado Springs. Loyalty runs thick in my blood because I've hung my hat with Northwestern Mutual for 10 years. I run my own financial planning firm and love having meaningful conversations with people. 

I "joined" the horse world 5 years ago when my mother and I purchased our first horses. Since that time I've  been learning about equestrian life and riding trails with my boy, Tuscany. I have a deep love for all animals. My other hobbies include skiing, camping, and spending time with my dogs & cats.

Mary Mowery

Treasurer 

I live in the Wet Mountains, 25 minutes NE of the town of Westcliffe. We have 3 mules and are getting comfortable packing (2 years of experience so far). Along with our mules, we have 16 chickens, 4 dogs, 3 cats, and bees (1 horizontal hive). I love to equine camp, riding out of camp for both pleasure and trail work. Day trips work too! 

I am a certified sawyer, both crosscut (B) and chainsaw (B), and adore working on the trails.

I have 5+ years of experience as a non-profit treasurer. We've lived in Westcliffe, CO since 2016 and are smitten.

I graduated from the University of Colorado as a Mechanical Engineer and spent 25+ years working for Norgren before retiring in 2016.

Becky Schiola

Board Member

I have been a member of RMBCH since 1996. I was raised with horses and they are my soul. I feel so blessed to have the open lands for our use and hope to be able to have it for generations.  

Leslie Miller

Board Member and State Representative

I love being out on the trail wandering on my horse exploring new areas. I have had a wonderful career that has always involved horses.  Working with children at camp, covering thousands of endurance miles on my wonderful stallion Bezibn+/ leading pack trips, sleigh rides and hunting camps. 

My passion is camping with my horse and friends in new areas that haven’t been explored.

I am so grateful for all the wonderful opportunities I have had, and want to make sure our public lands are available for others to have the same experiences. Remember,  not all those who wander lost!