The Women Behind the Mission
This month, we’ve highlighted women who are making an impact in the Western industry. To close out October, we’d like to take a moment to introduce the women behind Western Sports Foundation! Our team is all female, from our executive director to our contract staff, and we’re honored to do our part to make a difference in the lives of cowboys and cowgirls everywhere.
Aubrey O’Quin, Executive Director
Aubrey’s tenure with WSF began as an operational coordinating, helping the leadership team with day-to-day tasks like answering phone calls and emails. Since she didn’t have a rodeo background, Aubrey has worked to learn the ins and outs of the Western industry and the intricacies of running a non-profit.
Aubrey O’Quin, WSF Executive Director. Photo by Kaycie Timm
“I grew up in the city, so I came into WSF very green,” Aubrey recalls. “I didn't know anything about rodeo or fundraising. Without having that background, I still see the value and the importance in this industry and in the people that make it up.”
Over the last 12 years, she has worked her way up to the executive director postition. Her favorite piece of every role she’s held within WSF has always been directly assisting athletes in need through WSF’s programs.
“It always goes back to knowing that you're making a difference in someone's life,” she explains. “It’s humbling. There's no better feeling.”
Now, she’s proud to have an incredible team of women behind her, all striving for the same mission.
“We have had a super strong, passionate team,” Aubrey reveals. “We all have the same passion of wanting to help the athletes and see them grow.”
Elaine Cersosmino, Director of Operations
Elaine has served as part of WSF’s team since 2021, contributing her extensive administrative skills as Director of Operations. Although Elaine’s roll rarely takes her into the spotlight, her role is essential in enabling athletes to receive the services WSF provides. She also works tirelessly to ensure WSF’s compliance with national laws pertaining to non-profits, ensuring that WSF will continue to provide support to Western athletes for many years to come.
“I love making sure the foundation functions properly, allowing the work we do to happen as needed,” Elaine shares.
As the primary point of contact for athlete who utilize WSF’s services, Elaine has developed meaningful relationships with numerous WSF providers and the athletes they serve.
“I’ve found inspiration and purpose from working with the athletes to help fulfill their service needs,” Elaine reveals. “The athletes we serve have such strong values and enduring commitment to what they do, pursuing long-term goals with focus and fearlessness.”
Mai-Brit Harvey, Director OF FUND DEVELOPMENT
Mai-Brit joined the WSF team in 2023 as Director of Fund Development While Mai-Brit didn't grow up in the sport, her heart is deeply connected to rodeo, both personally and professionally.
Mai-Brit Harvey, WSF Director of Fund Development. Photo by Kaycie Timm
“I have immense respect for the way the competitors, families, and community rally around each other,” Mai-Brit explains. “Witnessing this unique support system fills me with a strong desire to give back, and my role at WSF allows me to do just that.”
As the director of fund development, Mai-Brit contributes her skills to create fundraising and outreach events to bring together WSF’s generous donors, partners, and the athletes we serve, creating meaningful opportunities for giving that fuels our mission.
She also collaborates with WSF’s marketing consultant, Kaycie, to develop innovative strategies to share the inspiring stories of the individuals in this community and raise awareness for the services that WSF offers.
“I wholeheartedly believe in the value of the athletes in this sport,” she reveals. “I am thankful for the opportunity to do what I can to help them achieve the success they deserve in all areas of life.”
Kaycie Timm, Marketing Consultant
Kaycie grew up in the Western industry, on horseback before she could walk. After earning a degree in Agricultural Communications from West Texas A&M University, she pursued a career in the industry she loved, working for organizations including the American Quarter Horse Association, the National Reining Horse Association, and the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
Kaycie Timm, WSF Marketing Consultant. Photo by Karly Hanson
Her combined experience in marketing within the rodeo world, the equine industry, and nonprofits made her an ideal candidate to help WSF take their digital presence to the next level.
“When Aubrey first approached me about needing assistance with WSF’s marketing, I knew this was a role I couldn’t pass up,” Kaycie recalls. “Having the opportunity to apply my skills in an organization that’s giving back to the industry I love most gives me so much joy.”
Now, as a consultant for WSF, Kaycie works closely with Mai-Brit to manage WSF’s online presence through social media, WSF.org, and the Beyond the Rodeo podcast, and assists with event-related marketing as well as other in-person outreach.
“I’m honored to be part of a foundation that’s making this industry better,” Kaycie reveals. “Every cowboy and cowgirl who receives assistance from WSF’s resources furthers our mission of ensuring all Western athletes enjoy healthy, long-lasting careers.”