A lifelong horse enthusiast, Valerie has enjoyed bringing horses into people’s lives who may not have otherwise been exposed to horses.  She is happy to have put over 100 people on horses for the first times in their lives, ranging from ages one through seventy- one.  She believes in the healing power of horses and is a member of numerous equine-related organizations including the Maryland Horse Council, Certified Horsemanship Association, American Society of Equine Appraisers, National Capital Adult Equestrian League, the Southern Maryland Horse Show Association, American Horse Publications, and the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.

She was a mentor, counselor, and leader in the U.S. military for over twenty-five years.  Her education includes a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Penn.; a Master of Strategic Intelligence, Defense Intelligence College, Washington, DC, and a dual Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Mass Communication from Towson University, Towson, Md.  She is a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans and the Naval Intelligence Professionals.  She is also a member of the Maryland Writers Association and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.

She lives with her husband Jaime Navarro, a career Naval officer, in Bowie, Maryland.  Jaime is the proud father of his son, Paul, and daughter, Stephanie, both college graduates and making it out in the world on their own.  Jaime and Valerie enjoy the company of their wonderful families and friends, their three horses, and two dogs.  Captain Valerie Ormond is the author of Believing In Horses.

One reader of Believing In Horses said, “Sadie Navarro is a twelve-year-old girl who loves horses. She is thrilled when she gets a horse of her own. Through an interesting turn of events, Sadie discovers ten more horses that are destined for the auction block. She knows those poor horses may end up on the meat market, so she makes it her mission to save them. Believing in Horses is the story of Sadie's courage and perseverance to work hard for the cause she believes in.  Author, Valerie Ormond, does an excellent job in creating a story that is not only educational, but interesting. The subplot with the horse thieves is also nicely done, as it creates an element of suspense.  Young readers may be inspired after reading about Sadie's accomplishments, to try finding their own cause to believe in. Believing in Horses is an excellent book for horse lovers age 10 and older. I highly recommend this book.”

According to the book description of About Believing In Horses, Too, Every day, thirteen-year-old Sadie lives in fear about her father serving in Afghanistan. She turns to her love of horses to help her cope, and commits to showing at the largest local horse shows and volunteering for therapeutic riding programs.

It seems like the perfect plan, until one of the therapy programs provides unexpected challenges. Then, her inexperienced horse and an unwelcome show ring rival threaten her chances at her first horse show.

Sadie wants to make her father proud. She wants to help others. But will she find the courage to overcome her fears?

Sensitive, thoughtful, relevant, and moving, Believing In Horses, Too is award-winning-author Valerie Ormond’s second insightful book exploring military family life and challenges faced by many of today’s youth.

According to the book description of Believing In Horses, “First, the move to Maryland. Then Dad's deployment to Afghanistan. Sadie is in trouble. Then she gets Lucky, a new young horse who proves to be a handful. But that's just the beginning. Together they encounter horse thieves, Maryland storms, and unwanted horses destined for auction and uncertain futures. Sadie makes it her personal mission to save them. Along the way she meets other people who are dedicated to rescuing horses. She also learns that some people in the horse industry are driven by greed. She's twelve. Can she save the horses in time...and herself?”

One reader of Believing In Horses said, “This is a beautifully told story of a young girl who embarks on an adventure to save unwanted horses. I thoroughly enjoyed every page and look forward to a sequel. I loved the photographs at the beginning of each chapter and I felt like I was right there with Sadie at every turn. I would definitely recommend this book for people of all ages who love horses, are from military families, have teenagers, have an interest in politics or just plain love a good story. And on top of being an emotionally beautiful story, it is educational too! Get yourself a copy...you won't be disappointed!”

One reader of Believing In Horses said, “Wonderful read for anyone regardless of age or love for horses. After reading this book you will have a love for horses and remember what it is like to be passionate about something. Read this and especially share with the young people in your lives. There are great discussion guides available to help young readers learn even more through Believing in Horses. You'll look forward to the next book by Valerie Ormond.”