ABOUT THE FARMYARD FRIENDS
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!
Junior Board Members
Braden Cross
Junior Board Member
Bio Coming Soon!
Photo
Coming Soon
Anna Mae Hess
Junior Board Member
Anna Mae lives in Fallston with her parents, younger sister and 2 dogs. She is a middle schooler at Fallston Middle School in 8th grade. She plays club soccer, is a member of White Hall 4-H, and part of the Farmyard Horse Show Team. She rides western dressage and hopes to be a large animal vet when she is older.
Farmyard Friends Learning Center's Non-Discrimination Policy
Farmyard Friends Learning Center is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all children, families, staff, and visitors of our partner farms. We value diversity and believe that every individual deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
Farmyard Friends Learning Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, family structure, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
This non-discrimination policy applies to all aspects of our operations, including but not limited to:
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Enrollment and admissions
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Educational and recreational programs
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Volunteer practices and program development
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Access to facilities, services, and activities
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Interactions among children, families, and volunteers
We are committed to maintaining an environment free from discriminatory practices, harassment, or retaliation. Any concerns or reports of discrimination will be taken seriously and addressed promptly by our Board of Directors.
Farmyard Friends Learning Center believes that embracing diversity strengthens our learning community and enriches the experiences of all children, and allows a secure learning environment for the agricultural leaders of tomorrow.