SANTA ROSA, California—Canine Companions® has a world-renowned reputation for expertly-trained, high-quality assistance dogs for people with disabilities. That reputation doesn’t end with the dogs. Holding the position as the leading assistance dog organization requires excellence in leadership. John McKinney is that kind of leader.
McKinney retired from his career in the health care industry in 2003. He soon became involved with Canine Companions, having witnessed the wonderful work of the nonprofit through his nephew’s Canine Companions assistance dog.
“Having seen first hand the tremendous impact that a Canine Companions’ dog can have on both an individual and their family, I knew I wanted to be a part of this organization and contribute whatever I could,” says John.
John served as the immediate past vice chair of Canine Companions, as well as former chair of the Canine Companions finance committee, and currently serves as a member of the personnel committee. John has also contributed to strategic projects, including negotiations with Baylor Scott & White Health to build the newest Canine Companions regional training center in Texas.
He brings an extensive healthcare background to his work for Canine Companions. After a number of years as a healthcare consultant, he served as the chief financial officer for an international professional organization for ophthalmologists. He also has served on the board of Alliance Medical Center in Healdsburg, CA and Marin Community Clinic as board chair and chair of its finance committee. McKinney received his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Trinity College, a master’s degree in Counseling from Boston University and an M.B.A. in Healthcare Administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
”We are pleased to have John leading the national board of directors,” says Paige Mazzoni, CEO. “With his long history of leadership and knowledge of different facets of Canine Companions, John is wonderfully suited to further the important work of Canine Companions and our mission.”
