Our Board
RUBERT AUSTIn - board president
Rubert Austin is a native of Ohio and has been married to his wife for 35 years. They have three adult children and live on a small hobby farm with 5 horses, their dog and 2 cats. Rubert has achieved degrees in Recreation and Wildlife Management, Human Resources Management as well as a master’s degree in Human Development and Family Life. While at Father Flanagan’s Boys Home he worked with at-risk youth and trained professionals in the Boys Town Model. He was also Superintendent of the SC State Agency, John de la Howe School. His most recent professional position was Director of Richard Campbell Veterans Nursing Home in Belton, SC. Community involvement has been a constant for Rubert. He and his wife have served in multiple positions in the Churches where they have attended. In addition to professional Boards and Committees Rubert has provided leadership for the First Steps Board of McCormick, South Carolina, the McCormick County Senior Center and Anderson Christian School in Anderson South Carolina.
Rubert finds his role as a board member to be fulfilling because he has the opportunity to combine his faith in God, emphasis on family, concern for youth, respect for veterans and enjoyment of horses together in service to the community.
laura hooks - vice president
Laura Hooks is a retired Professor at USC Upstate and Director for an on-campus enrichment program for adults with disabilities. She holds a Ph.D. in Early Childhood Education from USC, a Masters in Special Education and a Masters in Educational Administration. In addition, she is PATH certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and a Level 3/4 Parelli student.
“I was one of those horse-crazy young girls and was lucky to have a dad who loved horses too. As an adult, between a full-time job and 2 children, horses were put on hold. So, when my husband and I found we were empty nesters, I was thrilled to jump full force into horses once again. This time around I have added using my experience in special education to horses and achieved certification in therapeutic riding instruction. Bekah’s knowledge and skills have proved invaluable for me with my horse and so when I was asked to serve on the Hearts In Harmony board I was excited to become a part of the wonderful things that Bekah does with horses and those in need. I hope to use my experiences in public schools and universities as well as my knowledge of horses and all that can happen with equine therapeutic riding to support HIH.”
Dale SMITH - Treasurer
“I am Dale Smith, and I live on a small farm in Belton, SC with my husband and two young children. We love to hike, spend our weekends on the lake, and ride horses. Horses have been a huge part of my life, and I have been riding since I was eight years old. During high school, I was able to volunteer at a riding facility that was dedicated to special needs children and adults; this was an eye opening experience that showed me just how much horses can heal and help people. I met Bekah by searching for a riding program for my daughter, and after visiting her farm, I knew we found the perfect fit. I then learned about Hearts in Harmony, and the need for new board members. I felt like God was showing me a door to walk through, and so I did. I am excited to see how HiH grows, and I look forward to how I can help make an impact on the lives that we are able to touch.”
LACYE OSWALT - FUndraising chair
“Hello, I'm Lacye! I have been an educator for almost 15 years. I grew up in the Midlands and relocated to the Upstate about 2 years ago. I have two daughters. When I'm not working, I enjoy spending time at the soccer field watching my daughter play, enjoying the many walking and hiking trails that the upstate has to offer, reading and crocheting.
I love being a part of Hearts and Harmony and the work that they do with children, veterans, and the Shalom house. These three groups of people are special to me. I have always felt called to serve children. I have also come to realize the need for programs for veterans and individuals who are in addiction recovery, so serving on the board of HIH is a great way to help those in my community by giving them the tools to be successful in life.”
Shealy Dominick - Secretary
“I am Shealy Dominick, and I first became involved with Hearts in Harmony as a student at Anderson University. Now, I am a high school English teacher in Spartanburg, SC. I love to read, spend time outside (with horses and without!), and visit with my family and friends.
I have been riding horses since I was seven years old, so I knew the power of horses for fun, confidence, and emotional support long before I had ever heard of Hearts in Harmony. However, the nonprofit is intentional about helping people using the amazing animals, for the glory of the Lord. I love Hearts and Harmony—as a volunteer and as a board member—because I have seen our participants grow into more confident, healthier, and happier versions of themselves.”
DANIELLE HOLTON - volunteer chair
“Hi! My name is Danielle Holton. I am a wife, mom, volunteer and board member at Hearts in Harmony. I take care of all things volunteering! I got involved with Hearts in Harmony through my daughter’s love of horses and her taking lesson at Dark Horse. She used to suffer from anxiety and being with the horses was the only place she said she could just not think about anything. The horses were her happy place and I wanted to help in any way I could with the place that helped my girl.”