Rita Hoch
President & CEO
Rita, a native Oklahoman from Edmond, grew up on a small horse farm and has been passionate about horses her entire life. She has shown extensively in 4-H, AQHA, and PHBA, earning national high point and reserve high point awards with her palomino Quarter Horse. Rita deeply values the impact horses have had on her life and is committed to helping others experience the same connection. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center with a BS and MS in Speech-Language Pathology, Rita practiced in healthcare for 11 years. Rita lives in Oklahoma City with her husband, child, and three horses. She remains actively involved in riding and sharing her passion for equines with others.
Jessica Gleason
Director of Equine Operations
Jessica serves as the Director of Operations at Nexus Equine, bringing over 20 years of dedicated experience in animal welfare to the team. With a strong background in logistics, operations, data, and team management, she ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Jessica is also a certified Oklahoma Large Animal First Responder, reflecting her deep commitment to animal care and safety. Residing in Piedmont, OK, Jessica treasures time spent with her husband, daughter, and their beloved animals. Her leadership, expertise, and passion for making a difference are at the heart of what makes Nexus Equine thrive.
Ellie Hendrickson
Equine Trainer
Ellie, from Blanchard, OK, brings a wealth of experience in equine training, with a strong focus on colt starting. Her deep understanding of horse behavior and innovative approach to training make her a standout in her field. Ellie pairs her equine expertise with exceptional customer-focused skills, ensuring that clients and their horses receive personalized, thoughtful care. Outside of work, Ellie’s creativity shines through her love for digital and pencil drawing. She also enjoys adventurous activities like riding side-by-sides at the sand dunes, tubing at the lake, and hitting the slopes for some snow skiing. Ellie’s dynamic energy and passion for both her work and hobbies make her an invaluable member of the Nexus Equine team!
Sage Payne
Equine Trainer
Sage, from Alex, OK, is an accomplished equine trainer with a talent for connecting with even the most challenging horses. With years of experience, she has a passion for teaching youth the art of horse training, emphasizing the importance of building a solid foundation as the key to long-term success. Currently a double major in Equine Science and Agricultural Communication at Connors State College, Sage pairs her sharp eye for detail and logistics with natural leadership abilities, making her a valuable asset to Nexus Equine team. In her free time, Sage loves hunting, fishing, riding her own horses, and spending quality time with her boyfriend and family. Her dedication, expertise, and well-rounded skills reflect her unwavering commitment to the equine world.
Kristin O’Neal
Equine Care Technician
Kristin, from El Reno, OK, is a dedicated and compassionate caregiver who consistently goes above and beyond for the horses of Nexus Equine. Known for her out-of-the-box thinking and problem-solving skills, Kristin ensures every horse receives the exemplary care they deserve. Her passion for making the world a better place for horses shines through in everything she does, from her daily work with the Nexus herd to her efforts in supporting the broader equine community. With her warm smile, sunny demeanor, and willingness to lend a helping hand, Kristin is an invaluable part of the team and a true advocate for the horses she serves.