BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Meet Our Board

Michael Kryszak
Board Chair

Michael is a graduate of St. Andrews University of North Carolina with a Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. A former elementary school teacher, he currently serves as an Instructional Facilitator in Dripping Springs ISD, bringing deep expertise in learning and human development to his leadership role.

As a lifelong equestrian, former PATH registered instructor, and cancer survivor, Michael has experienced firsthand the profound and transformational impact that horses can have on people. This personal journey fuels his unwavering commitment to HorseLink’s mission.

Michael’s dedication to HorseLink runs deep—he previously served as Secretary before assuming the Board Chair role, and has been instrumental in driving the organization’s growth and expanding the reach of our mission. His unique combination of educational expertise, equestrian experience, and personal understanding of horses’ healing power makes him a passionate advocate for serving horses and promoting their ability to transform human lives.

Shannon Taylor Parks
Vice-Chair

Shannon Taylor Parks is an Austin-based marketer, educator, and entrepreneur with expertise in strategic planning, outreach, and owns Talula Mesa, a glamping resort in the Texas Hill Country. Shannon has been involved with horses for much of her life and is interested in increasing public awareness of the unique therapeutic benefits of working with horses.  Early in life she became inspired by the powerful breakthroughs that horses and humans can experience together; that’s what drives her to advocate so passionately for HorseLink’s vital work.
 
Shannon attended Randolph-Macon Woman’s College and Virginia Tech, earning a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and Physics.  She lives in Austin, Texas and Marble Falls, TX with her traveling cat.

Christina Crean
Secretary

Christina moved from Washington D.C. to Austin in 2011, continuing her work in the hospitality industry before joining Tito’s Handmade Vodka in 2016. In her role managing and expanding Tito’s philanthropic event footprint in Austin, she has doubled the number of charity events Tito’s contributes to and continues to cultivate meaningful nonprofit relationships while managing events throughout Texas.

Becoming a Texan reignited Christina’s love for horseback riding, first discovered at summer camp as a child. As an adult, she continues to take riding lessons as both exercise and therapy, experiencing firsthand the healing power of horses. She is deeply committed to advancing HorseLink’s mission of connecting horses and humans for mutual transformation.

Emily Pantera
Treasurer

Emily moved to Austin in 2019 to complete her Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of Texas. She began her career in External Audit at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in Austin before transitioning into Internal Audit within the semiconductor industry, where she earned her Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation. Emily currently works in the pharmaceutical industry, a role that closely aligns with her passion for connecting with and helping others.

With a lifelong love for animals and a strong commitment to people-focused service, Emily was drawn to HorseLink’s mission. She is honored to serve as Treasurer on the Board of Directors and is excited to contribute her financial expertise to support the organization’s growth and impact.

“I feel very fortunate to have found HorseLink which has given Padi a new career working with people. HorseLink understands that retired show horses have been exposed to so much and have a trustful and giving nature and helping people is what they loved to do. So glad that Padi can be a part of the work HorseLink does with veterans and with those dealing with trauma through illness or loss. This work is so very important in helping people heal and move forward with their lives.”
–Judi, Previous Owner