Media Relations
William Woods University

Kerry Thomas is recognized by many around the world as a pioneering researcher and service provider in the field of equine athletic psychology. Next week he will share his ideas with William Woods University students and interested community members.

Starting his independent research of wild horse herds to initially learn more about their social structures for the purpose of developing therapy horses for children, Thomas made his first trips to Wyoming and Montana in 1989.

Early on in his research Thomas realized that it was emotional conformation and not physical conformation that governed the herd dynamics.

After many years of working in various jobs, including several years in construction to fund his research trips, Thomas moved into horse therapy development where he was able to use his research for the human-horse bond with children in need.

What Thomas discovered while researching and observing herd dynamics has been applied to the quickly growing technique coined the Thomas Herding Technique (THT).  The mission of the Thomas Herding Technique is equine behavior and stress management through better human/horse communication.

Through the THT, Thomas profiles horses to advance the athlete and identify mental blocks that may be slowing, or even preventing, athletic advancement and happiness. He applies this technique to various types of equestrian disciplines and training programs, including dressage, show jumping, reining and Thoroughbred racing.

Thomas is also the author of "Horse Profiling: The Secret to Motivating Equine Athletes." William Woods University's behavior and training class utilizes this book as their textbook and guide to understanding how to best train and communicate with horses.

The class has spoken with Thomas via Skype several times to learn more about his methods, and he has provided them with classroom materials and guides to working with their horses at school.

"I'm very intrigued by Kerry Thomas' method since it's rather unique," said Marissa Brown, senior equine general studies major. "I'm looking forward to watching him work on William Woods' horses."

Thomas will arrive on campus Sunday (Oct. 21) and will stay for a week. During his visit, he will host two programs. Both events are free and open to the public.

At 7 p.m. Monday, he will give an overview of his work in the library auditorium.  At 8 p.m. Wednesday, he will present part two, during which he will give a demonstration of profiling horses in the UPHA Arena on Ewing Street. Throughout the week, he will also work with students and the horses they ride at WWU.

"We are thrilled to have Kerry Thomas here with the equestrian division for a week," said Claudia Starr, equestrian studies division chair. "His groundbreaking research and innovative concepts are exciting and new to the industry. We’re fortunate to have him on campus now before he begins his upcoming and busy international schedule."

For more information about Thomas’ visit to campus or scheduling, contact Claudia Starr at claudia.starr@williamwoods.edu.

For more information about Thomas and his technique, visit http://www.thomasherdingtechnique.com/about/kerry-m-thomas.php.

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NOTE TO EDITORS:  Thomas is prepared to speak with the news media. To set up an interview, contact Mary Ann Beahon, director of university relations, at (573) 592-1127 or maryann.beahon@williamwoods.edu.