Hidden Gems: Meet Jennie Nevin of Los Angeles Equestrian Center

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennie Nevin.

Hi Jennie , thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a Valley Girl at heart, living in Reseda with my husband Michael and our two dogs, Beau and Sydney. Originally from Northern California, I first came to Southern California on a vocal scholarship to Chapman University, where I fell in love with the region’s energy and opportunities.

My career path has taken me through the nonprofit world, the television and theme park industries, and eventually into venue management with ASM Global (now Legends Global). Today, I’m honored to serve as the Executive Director of Business Development and Communications for the Los Angeles Equestrian Center—an iconic 75-acre facility in the heart of Griffith Park and the historic Burbank Rancho community.

Outside of my professional life, I’m passionate about speaking, singing, and, above all, horses. I began riding at the age of seven, got my first horse at eleven, and returned to riding as an adult at the TES Riding School right here at the Center. After leasing a few horses, I was blessed to be gifted Piaffe, a stunning black mare from Germany, who became my partner and teacher for 16 years until her passing this past November.

Horses, music, and community have always been central to my journey, and I feel incredibly fortunate to combine them in my role at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center. Every day, I’m reminded how magical this place is, and it’s a privilege to help steward both its equestrian heritage and its vibrant special events.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but it has been an incredible adventure. Early in my career, I had the joy of performing with my band all over California and even making it to Nashville. Later, my work with the Themed Entertainment Association allowed me to tour the world, visiting Europe, Japan, and China while working alongside thousands of creative minds who build the theme parks and attractions we all know and love. Those experiences gave me a global perspective and a true appreciation for how storytelling, community, and shared spaces can connect people.

Of course, there have also been challenges. Most recently, the Los Angeles fires this past January put our community to the test. As the official evacuation site for horses and livestock, the Equestrian Center became a refuge during that crisis. It was incredibly moving to witness our staff, trainers, boarders, and neighbors coming together under pressure to care for animals and families in need. For me personally, it was a reminder of why this work matters—not just for the beauty of the facility or the events we host, but for the role we play as a lifeline in moments of crisis.

Those kinds of challenges, though difficult, have only deepened my gratitude for the path I’ve taken and my commitment to serving both this community and the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Los Angeles Equestrian Center is a truly unique place. We’re a 75-acre equestrian and events facility located in the heart of Griffith Park and the historic Rancho community of Burbank. What sets us apart is that we’re more than just stables and arenas — we’re a gathering place where equestrian tradition, community, and special events all come together.

On the equestrian side, we provide boarding, training, and riding opportunities for horses and riders of all levels, while also hosting horse shows, clinics, and educational programs. We’re proud to be the home of TES, one of the top riding schools in Los Angeles, which gives children and adults the chance to learn to ride right here at the Center.

At the same time, we’re also an event destination. Our grounds and arenas transform into venues for weddings, concerts, trade shows, film productions, cultural festivals, and immersive experiences like Cortege. That mix of equestrian heritage and large-scale events is something very few places in the country can offer.

What I’m most proud of brand-wise is our role as a community hub. This past year, for example, we served as an official evacuation site during the Los Angeles fires, opening our doors to hundreds of animals and families in need. We’re also working to modernize our facilities and bring in new partnerships so that this historic property continues to thrive for generations to come.

What I’d love readers to know is that the Los Angeles Equestrian Center is open to everyone — whether you ride, board, train, attend an event, or simply want to spend time in this beautiful corner of Griffith Park. We’re here to preserve the equestrian tradition of Los Angeles while also inviting the community to experience something magical, whether on horseback or through a one-of-a-kind event.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is making a difference and finding true purpose in my work. My grandmother always said, “put your hands to good work,” and that’s something I’ve carried with me my entire life. I believe we’re all given skills and gifts, and it’s our responsibility to use them in ways that contribute to the world around us.

At the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, that philosophy comes to life every day. I feel honored to serve such an iconic 75-acre property — a place where equestrian tradition, community, and events intersect. What matters to me is preserving the Center’s heritage, honoring the land, and ensuring it continues to serve horses, riders, and the community for generations to come.

I want to be a good leader by working hard, striving to do my best, and inspiring others. I hope to be a spark that uplifts and encourages others. I am proud to be a spokesperson for our mission and to champion sustainable practices and protect this open space we’re so fortunate to have in the heart of Los Angeles.

Ultimately, what matters most is love, purpose, and impact — to keep learning, growing, and giving with all my heart, and to ensure the Los Angeles Equestrian Center remains a place of magic, connection, and inspiration for everyone who comes through its gates.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thelaec.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelaec/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LosAngelesEquestrianCenter
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/los-angeles-equestrian-center/
• Other: https://linkedin.com/in/jennifer-nevin