Meet The Team

Maureen has worked in the Assistance Dog industry for over 20 years. She was born and raised in Seattle, and graduated from Seattle University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. As a CPA, she combines a strong business background with a Masters of Science in Canine Studies. She has been invited to share her innovative training methods at conferences in Europe, Asia, South America, and the US. Her devotion to helping people with disabilities has resulted in tens of thousands of people whose lives have been impacted by Assistance Dogs.

Will graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He has been working in the Assistance Dog industry for over 20 years. Together, he and Maureen grew Assistance Dogs of Hawaii into one the most successful providers of Assistance Dogs in the country. Will oversees all of the facilities and construction projects. Described as the backbone of the organization, his work behind the scenes of the organization keeps all daily activities running smoothly.

Sarit is from Israel where she completed her Bachelor program at Bar Ilan University. After graduation, she studied and was certified in Dog Training and Dog Assisted Therapy at the Ofek Institute in Israel. She is currently our Dog Trainer at Assistance Dogs Northwest after successfully completing a year internship on both campuses.

Katja brings more than 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience—and a genuine passion for serving others—to her role as Office Manager. Known for her warm, welcoming personality, Katja has a natural ability to make people feel at home. Whether she's greeting visitors with a genuine smile, lending a helping hand, or tackling a challenge with her positive, can-do attitude, she brings kindness and enthusiasm to every interaction. 

Lee grew up in NW Washington with horses and dogs and has specialized in animal psychology and human behavior for over 20 years. Her passion for helping humans and animals has allowed her to live and work in the US, UK, Australia, and Europe. Her B.A. in Psychology, M.A. in Leadership & Organizational Development, and Ph.D. in Human Development have been the keys to success in her field of work. Applying her knowledge and experience as a psychologist in the corporate, for-profit, and nonprofit realms, Lee is able to help our beloved dogs and people reach their full potential.

Joanna has played a pivotal role in ADNW since its inception, wearing multiple hats that encompass everything from essential administrative tasks to maintaining the pristine condition of the lawn! Beyond her diverse responsibilities, Joanna has been a dedicated long-term puppy raiser for the program. Currently, she proudly serves as the devoted "mom" to Tess, a remarkable breeder dog and COVID Scent Detection dog.