ABOUT THE FARMYARD FRIENDS
Meet Our Advisory Board
STACIE GENTZLER
PRESIDENT
Stacie is a Film Producer by trade, Penn State graduate and lover of National Parks. She and her husband, Aaron, caught 'Farmyard Fever' when their daughter started riding horses in 2024. Since then, Stacie has been looking for ways to become more involved and support the magic of The Farmyard. Advancing the Farmyard Friends Learning Center turned out to be the perfect match.
KATE MATTERER
VICE PRESIDENT
Kate is a wife, mom of three energetic boys/farmhands, and a lifelong Marylander—raised in Towson and now roosting in Cockeysville. When her crew isn’t busy grooming horses, petting goats, or asking questions about where eggs come from, Kate works as a business manager at a local investment firm, specializing in talent development and employee experience. As VP of the board, she brings a passion for community, a love of learning (especially the muddy, messy kind), and a goal to help more children—especially those with fewer opportunities—experience the magic of the Farmyard. She’s all about opening gates (and barn doors!) to new families and watching little minds grow with every “neigh,” “oink,” and “moo.”
STEVE MARCIN
TREASURER
Steve first turned to beekeeping in 2018 as a relaxing distraction from a professional career in international business - which quickly evolved into the launch of Baltimore Bee Co. and an early introduction to the Farmyard family. Commonly known as Bee Steve, to not cause confusion with the legendary Farmer Steve, he enjoys meeting and introducing both children and adults to the world of honeybees via live interactive demonstrations and engaging experiences. His daughter Katie found her passion in the Farmyard rabbit program and can often be found in the barn. As Treasurer, Steve is excited to support the continued sustained growth of our programs.
JENNIFER CHRISTOPHER SECRETARY
Bio Coming Soon!
COLE BARNWELL
BOARD MEMBER
Growing up in the Hereford zone, Cole Barnwell developed a deep appreciation for nature, history, and the world around him. As a member of the FFA during high school, he cultivated a strong connection to plants and agriculture, which has stayed with him throughout his life. Cole pursued his passion for history at Wesley College in Dover, Delaware, earning a degree in American Studies. His love for travel and the great outdoors continues to inspire him to explore new places and discover different cultures. Currently, Cole works at McCormick, where he combines his interests in food, history, and sustainability. Whether he's hiking in nature or learning about America's past, Cole remains driven by his curiosity and his commitment to making a meaningful impact in both his professional and personal life.
PATRICIA MASON
FOUNDER & BOARD MEMBER
Bio Coming Soon!