It's an exciting season of growth at Windhorse, and we're building a team to match it. We're proud to introduce our new Program Coordinator Nick Ames and Board Treasurer Miriam Thede.
Nick is joining us as a new Program Coordinator, where he combines his two biggest passions: education and horses. With a background in both general and special education, he enjoys creating programs that meet kids where they’re at and help them build confidence, skills, and meaningful connections.
A longtime equestrian and competitive show jumper, Nick values the unique relationship between horses and humans. He’s an active part of the Bozeman and greater Montana horse community, serving on the board of the Yellowstone Hunter Jumper Association and helping run the Big Sky Classic horse shows in the valley for over 10 years.
Nick is excited to create welcoming, hands-on experiences where students of all ages and abilities can learn, connect, and thrive—both in and out of the arena. When he’s not in the classroom or at Windhorse, he enjoys spending time with his partner, Dante, competing on his mare Callie, and exploring the outdoors.
A native Montanan raised in the Bitterroot Valley, Miriam has loved horses since early childhood when her parents began raising and showing Arabians. That early connection has grown into a lifelong passion, and she now enjoys learning reined cow horse with her horse, Ruger. Horses have always been a source of learning, growth, and connection, fostering her deep appreciation for the equine-human bond.
Though new to equine-assisted learning, Miriam has experienced firsthand how horses can inspire confidence, resilience, and personal growth in children. She is excited to support Windhorse Equine Learning’s mission to help youth in the Gallatin Valley develop these skills through their relationship with horses.
Miriam originally moved to Bozeman to attend MSU and quickly fell in love with the area. She has worked at Neil & Company CPAs for over 10 years now and brings her professional experience to her role as Treasurer. She currently lives in Bozeman with her husband, Jonny, and their dog, Button.
