About Us

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Rene’ Hillman 

Founder & Managing Director

Big Valley Donkey Ranch &

Author • Certified Permaculture Landscape Designer 

Rene’ is the founder of the Big Valley Donkey Ranch, where she combines traditional ranch work, regenerative land stewardship, and a disciplined professional background to guide the ranch’s long‑term development. She writes under the pen name Grace Whitfeld, bringing the same values found in her ranch life—clarity, faith, and rural groundedness—into her published work.

Before establishing Big Valley, Rene’ built a career in the financial sector, specializing in mortgage lending, credit risk, and client advisory services. This experience shaped her systems‑driven approach to planning, operations, and organizational structure. Her work at the ranch reflects that same commitment to accountability, thoughtful design, and long‑range strategy.

Rene’ is certified in Permaculture Landscape Design, a discipline that informs her approach to land, water, and ecological restoration. She integrates regenerative principles into daily ranch operations, focusing on soil health, watershed resilience, and sustainable livestock management.

Through her writing as Grace Whitfeld and her stewardship at Big Valley Donkey Ranch, Rene’ works to preserve the quiet skills, values, and land‑based knowledge that strengthen rural communities. Her leadership reflects a steady belief in responsibility, practical care, and the long-term health of community, land and livestock.