Directors

Anne Gittinger became involved with Canine Companions because she strongly believed in the mission—a marriage of excellent dog breeding and commitment to helping people with disabilities—and saw an opportunity to further the work of the organization.

Barrie Graham was an early and fervent admirer of Canine Companions and became involved with the organization in the 1990’s while working at Exchange Bank. Although active with other non-profits providing services to people with disabilities, Canine Companions’ unique focus in teaming dogs with people with disabilities appealed to Barrie.

Warden Hall proudly became a member of the Canine Companion National Board in June of 2024. She is a passionate and enthusiastic lover of all animals. Her dedication emanates through the Canine Companion program.

Carolyn has been actively involved with Canine Companions for over thirty years. She’s a member of the Western Pennsylvania Volunteer Chapter and held a leadership role with the chapter for seven years. Carolyn has raised numerous puppies and is often out in the community increasing awareness for Canine Companions.

Cathy Fischer has been involved with Canine Companions for over 20 years, when she and her husband Marty were invited to attend the Tales & Tails Gala at SeaWorld Ports of Call in Orlando, FL. That event was the beginning of Cathy’s journey with supporting Canine Companions and the mission.

Dr. Teresa Johnson Ramey met her first Canine Companion dog on the campus of Francis Marion University, where the beautiful canine Edna was being raised and trained by faculty member Kathy McCoy. That connection got her involved with volunteer Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consulting and training with Canine Companions, and she later was asked to join the Inclusion and Diversity Committee.

Inspired in 1989 by an article about Canine Companions in Life Magazine, Chris Kittredge immediately applied to be a puppy raiser. Shortly thereafter, her first puppy arrived and the journey to national board membership in 2007 began.

Chris brings a wealth of experience from his 22-year service in the Navy, where he retired as a Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman.

Judge Ed Kinkeade was appointed to the federal bench of the Northern District of Texas in 2002 by President George W. Bush, where he still serves today. Previously, Judge Kinkeade served as a County District and Appellate Judge in Texas from 1981 to 2002.