Sam joined AWLA in January of 2019 having been a lifelong advocate, lover of animals, and profoundly inspired by the dog she adopted just a few years prior. Before stepping into the role of Interim Chief Operating Officer, Sam had been an adoption counselor, foster transfer coordinator, and eventually rose into leadership as the Director of Behavior and Pathway Planning. In her role as Interim Chief Operating Officer, Sam is eager to support the animals, humans, and community that rely on AWLA everyday.
Sam is double certified as a dog trainer through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA), as well as a Fear Free Certified Professional (FFP). With her wealth of knowledge and experience, Sam has contributed to animal welfare organizations outside of AWLA including, consulting at local shelters on canine training challenges, training private clients through JW Dog Training and her own business, and has spent time as Veterinary Assistant with Dr. Amy Pike, DMV, DACVB, CDBC at the Animal Behavior Wellness.
Sam is a volunteer with the Shelter Playgroup Alliance and occasionally travels across the country to teach shelter professionals about dog behavior and structured playgroup. And she is an instructor, course creator, and regular presenter with Maddie’s Fund and Maddie’s University.
