Board of directors
Canine Support Teams is grateful to have the guidance and support of committed board members who all bring unique expertise and perspective to our program.
Brings more than 20 years of expertise in strategic communications, brand development, public relations, and nonprofit marketing. Her experience in storytelling, partnership development, and community engagement helps expand awareness and support for Canine Support Teams.
✝Robert Steven Hicks
Accomplished sculptor, beloved friend, recipient of two CST service dogs, and longtime volunteer who will be forever missed.
Darryl Howard is an operations executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience in luxury property management, hospitality, and organizational operations. His expertise includes facilities management, guest services, team development, and building high-performing operational systems that deliver exceptional service and accountability.
Beyond his professional career, Darryl has extensive experience leading international humanitarian initiatives and supporting local nonprofit organizations focused on homelessness and women-and-children services. His combination of operational excellence and service-driven leadership strengthens Canine Support Teams’ commitment to delivering exceptional care to clients, volunteers, and service dogs.
Dr. Tim Ireland is a veterinarian, entrepreneur, and Owner of Newtown Veterinary Hospital, bringing more than 30 years of experience in veterinary medicine, hospital leadership, and clinical operations. His expertise in animal health, organizational leadership, and operational excellence helps support Canine Support Teams’ commitment to the highest standards of care for its service dogs and clients.
Corporate Partner at Fox Rothschild LLP, Peter Kelly brings more than 20 years of experience advising businesses on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, strategic transactions, and regulatory compliance. His expertise in corporate law, risk management, and organizational strategy provides valuable legal oversight and governance to Canine Support Teams.
Principal at Mercadien P.C. and Managing Director of The Mercadien Group, Marguerite Mount is a Certified Public Accountant with extensive expertise in tax strategy, estate and trust planning, family office services, and financial consulting. Her experience advising individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations provides exceptional financial stewardship and fiduciary oversight to Canine Support Teams.
Offers more than 35 years of executive leadership experience in strategic planning, organizational growth, and business development. Having served on the Canine Support Teams Board since 2006 and as Chairwoman since 2017, she provides strategic leadership in support of the organization’s mission.
One of the software industry’s most accomplished executives, Jeff Papows served as President and CEO of Lotus Development Corporation, leading the company through IBM’s landmark $4.5 billion acquisition and helping establish Lotus Notes as the global standard for enterprise collaboration. Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than 35 years, he has led publicly traded technology companies, authored bestselling books, and brings exceptional expertise in corporate governance, strategic growth, and nonprofit leadership.
Founder of CorSolutions and a healthcare executive with more than 30 years of experience building and scaling innovative healthcare organizations. Her expertise in strategic growth, business development, and healthcare partnerships provides valuable leadership in advancing Canine Support Teams’ mission.
Owner of Colonial Business Services, Ashley Reid brings more than 15 years of expertise in accounting, tax strategy, financial planning, and business advisory services. Her experience helping businesses strengthen financial performance and maintain sound fiscal practices provides valuable financial oversight to Canine Support Teams.
Founder of Canine Support Teams, Inc., mother of one son, dog trainer/behaviorist, lover of dogs.
Michael Cruciotti
Marketing strategist and Founder of MAC Sports International, Michael Cruciotti advises organizations on strategic growth, brand development, digital communications, and corporate partnerships. His expertise in nonprofit marketing, fundraising, strategic partnerships, and stakeholder engagement helps increase awareness, expand community support, and strengthen the long-term impact of Canine Support Teams.
