Board of Directors
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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.
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Kate O'Donnell
Executive Coach, Dominion
Kate O’Donnell is a long-time friend and a like-minded soul. She is a parent and works as an Executive Coach for Dominion.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Meet Our Founder/CEO
Alexandra Hess, Founder/CEO
Alexandra has owned horses for over 30 years and has earned her USDF Bronze Medal in dressage. She has volunteered with horse rescues for over a decade by serving on the Board or fostering and training horses for rehoming. 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.