Meet the PNHS Team: Shelly Mix
Over the coming months, we’ll be shining a spotlight on core members of our PNHS team through short Q&As, sharing more about the people who help bring the show to life!
This month, we are proud to introduce our longest-serving staff member: Shelly Mix! Shelly joined the PNHS team 17 years ago, and today she wears many hats while working as the horse show’s Creative Director.
Q: What initially led you to the PNHS?
Initially, I helped organize an exhibition barrel race for the PNHS in 2009, which I also participated in. The then-president, Liz Shorb, needed office help at that time, and now here I am, 17 years later!
Q: Tell us about your background in the horse world and your experience leading up to this position.
I grew up on a farm in upstate New York, near Ithaca. I have been riding literally since I was in diapers! I’ve always leaned Western and still compete in barrel racing and pole bending.
I’ve shown in many disciplines, attending Virginia Intermont College as a Horsemanship major, which was a Hunt Seat field of study. With Cs in horsemanship and straight As in my Fine Art and Commercial Art classes, my career shifted to art – now referred to as graphic design.
Shelly (pictured right alongside her brother and sister) has been riding horses since she was in diapers.
My background includes working in print shops, publishing houses, newspapers and magazines and traveling and working trade shows throughout the country. Now, all my graphic and event planning skills are put to work in producing an annual, national event.
Q: What do you most enjoy about your role as the Creative Director?
I wear a lot of hats working at PNHS and have been given a lot of freedom to create displays, ads, merchandise – even tablecloths that showcase the best of PNHS. Believe it or not, I enjoy designing our 250+ page program! I call myself semi-retired… at least until about August each year!
Q: What do you think makes the PNHS so special? Do you have any favorite PNHS memories from over the years?
My first year or two working the show, I was definitely nervous but eager to learn about the ins-and-outs of the business – and it became easier as the years went by. The diversity at PNHS gives me an abundance of choices to work with and learn directly from greats in the industry. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this amazing team! I particularly love to hear the roar of the crowd on Team Night/Foundation Friday and Grand Prix Saturday! And the live national anthem with the flag bearer in the spotlight always bring a tear to my eye; they are so beautiful!
Q: If you could ride any horse, past or present, which horse would you pick?
I still own him: Rebel’s Lofty Jet (Regg) – who is now 35! He won EVERYTHING, including several rodeo titles with buckles for me. Such the athlete, he still floats over the ground like a dressage horse.
Q: Who are the horses and dogs currently in your life?
Together with my husband, Kenny, we own three horses, Regg, Romeo and Jobie – all registered Quarter Horses.
We also have two 1-year-old Australian Cattle Dogs (Heelers) – sisters named Hope and Faith. We all live on our small farm in Annville, Pa.
