Meet the APHA Board: Jamie Howard
Change comes fast for associations, and even faster for Jamie Howard, a racehorse enthusiast, entrepreneur and APHA president-elect.
A proud lifetime member of APHA, Jamie and his wife, Wendy, live the Paint Horse lifestyle everyday on their ranch, Running Colors Equine in Wayne, Oklahoma. They mainly produce speed-bred Paints for racing and other performance events,
Jamie’s Leadership Journey
“I’ve been a member of APHA since 2000. Over the years, I’ve been involved as a breeder, owner, trainer and supporter of APHA racing and performance horses. My leadership journey began through committee work. I joined the APHA Racing Advisory Committee in 2010 and later served as chair from 2016–2020. I’ve also chaired the Presidential Commission and the Breed Integrity Advisory Committee. Those experiences deepened my understanding of the association and inspired me to serve on the Board of Directors, beginning in 2022.”
Collaboration, not a Vacuum
“The best part is collaborating with people who share a genuine passion for Paint Horses and seeing ideas come to life that make a lasting impact for members and the breed. The biggest misconception is that decisions happen in a vacuum. In reality, there’s a tremendous amount of discussion, research and teamwork behind every decision the Board makes. Everyone involved truly wants what’s best for APHA and its members.”
Building Connections Across the Horse World
“The time I’ve invested in volunteering for APHA leadership roles has allowed me to form friendships and relationships across disciplines I might not normally be involved with. These connections, built on a shared passion for the Paint Horse and a desire to see the breed thrive, have enriched my experience and reinforced why this association is so important. Working alongside others who share the same commitment to promoting the Paint Horse has made the journey both meaningful and inspiring. I hope that my participation has had a positive impact on other members in the same way.”
Exciting Evolution
“What excites me most about the American Paint Horse Association going forward is seeing how our organization continues to evolve. The incentive programs that have been implemented—and those still being developed—are going to be impactful, and it’s exciting to be part of that progress. I believe these efforts not only add value for our current members but also attract new participants to the Paint Horse community. Seeing APHA find innovative ways to support breeders, owners and exhibitors at every level makes me confident about the future of the breed and the association. As a Board member, I’m encouraged by how forward-thinking APHA has become—embracing partnerships, modernizing our systems and keeping the focus on the bigger picture. That kind of leadership and collaboration is what will keep APHA strong for generations to come.”
Words of Wisdom
What you wish other members knew about APHA:
“I believe it’s important for our members to have a deeper understanding of the organization’s strategic vision, financial health and governance. When members see how decisions are made, how resources are managed and how each initiative aligns with our long-term goals, it creates a stronger sense of connection and shared purpose. This helps build confidence in the direction we’re heading as an association and reinforces that every choice is made with the Paint Horse community in mind. It also encourages members to engage more actively—whether that’s through participation, feedback or leadership—because they can clearly see how their involvement contributes to APHA’s continued growth and success.”
Service with Stewardship
“We’re all volunteers who care deeply about this association. Serving on the Board isn’t about titles—it’s about stewardship. Every discussion, every decision, comes from a place of wanting to make APHA stronger and more inclusive for all members. As a board member, I want our members to know that my decisions aren’t guided by personal gain or what might benefit just my own horses or programs. Instead, I focus on what will support the long-term health and growth of APHA as a whole.
“Leadership here requires listening to diverse perspectives, weighing complex issues and sometimes making tough decisions that are in the best interest of the entire membership. Transparency, accountability and a commitment to the Paint Horse lifestyle guide everything I do. I hope that members feel confident that the board is dedicated to preserving the legacy and future of this remarkable association.”
Take the Reins
“Get involved, stay curious, and don’t wait to be asked [to serve]. Attend meetings, volunteer for a committee, and share your perspective. Leadership starts with participation—and your voice matters more than you realize.”
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About APHA
The American Paint Horse Association is the world’s second-largest international equine breed association. Since it was founded in 1962, APHA has registered more than a million horses in 59 nations and territories. APHA promotes, preserves and provides meaningful experiences with Paint Horses. Learn more at apha.com.