Staff Leadership

Working with the Management Team and the Board of Directors, Aubrey has overall responsibility for the daily operations of NEADS. In addition she works to develop and implement strategies for the long term success of the organization. She joined NEADS in 2025 with a background in both the corporate and nonprofit worlds.  “I am thrilled to join a non-profit with a mission as compelling as NEADS. I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, volunteers, and clients to continue NEADS’ legacy of providing life-changing Service Dogs.”

Audrey joined NEADS in 2017. As Marketing Director, she works to strengthen external communications to get the word about this amazing community of staff, volunteers, donors, clients, and World Class Service Dogs as well as working to continually enhance the internal culture. “I am in awe of what the NEADS community accomplishes every day and am thankful for the opportunity to tell the story of these amazing, highly trained Service Dogs and the lives they change.”

As the Director of Training & Client Services, Andy oversees the trainers, on-campus string training, and the Prison PUP Program, and continuously collaborates with the Raiser Operations and Client Services staff. Andy comes to NEADS with a wealth of experience from two sister ADI organizations, Dogs for Better Lives and Canine Companions.

Kate started out as a volunteer in the Early Learning Center before joining the NEADS staff in 2017. In her role as Director of Breeding and Puppy Development, she oversees the NEADS breeding program and the early socialization program for puppies from birth until the time they leave the Nursery to begin their Service Dog training journey with a Puppy Raiser or inmate handler. “It brings me such joy to create a solid foundation for each puppy at the beginning of their lives so they can continue on to be agents of life change for our clients.”

Cathryn joined NEADS in 2023. As the Director of Veterinary Medicine, she oversees the medical care for program dogs, and the management of the Hawkins Canine Center. “I am proud to offer medical care and collaborate with our staff, the veterinary community, and volunteers to promote the health of these wonderful dogs so they can successfully work for our clients.”

As NEADS’ Manager of Volunteer Engagement, Heather leads the organization’s volunteer strategy across departments. She designs and evolves volunteer programs that support volunteers throughout their lifecycle while strengthening cross-department systems to ensure Service Dogs in Training and the clients they serve are set up for success. Heather joined NEADS in 2022 and previously served as Manager of Raiser Operations. She holds a PMP certification and has a background in international business.

“Strong volunteer programs are built on thoughtful systems and meaningful support. When volunteers are set up to succeed, so are our future Service Dogs, and the people whose lives they change.”