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Rachel McPherson

Founder/President The Good Dog Foundation

Rachel McPherson is the Founder and President of The Good Dog Foundation (Good Dog), utilizing her background as an entrepreneur and community activist to spearhead the mission of increasing awareness of the healing properties of the human-animal bond through certified therapy dog visits.

With nearly two decades of dedicated service, Rachel has transformed Good Dog from a modest startup with 3 therapy dogs into a nationally-recognized authority in certified therapy dogs, boasting over 1,100 teams across the country.

Before establishing Good Dog, Rachel McPherson excelled as an Academy Award-nominated producer in the film and television industry. Her extensive involvement in various professional and cultural associations showcases her expertise in fundraising, development, event planning, and production, including past board memberships with organizations like Prospect Park Alliance, New York Methodist Hospital, and the Berkeley Carroll School.

A distinguished alumna of the University of Mississippi, Rachel McPherson's leadership extends beyond the realm of therapy dog advocacy. Her influential roles as the past chair of the Ole Miss Women's Council, founder/coordinator of the Way Up North in Mississippi Picnic, and current board member of the Brooklyn Museum and the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation underscore her commitment to community service and social causes.

Rachel's journey into the world of therapy dog services began with a documentary project, which ultimately led to the inception of Good Dog. Her impactful initiatives have even resulted in legislative changes, such as influencing New York State law to allow therapy dogs into health care facilities. Today, Good Dog conducts over 330,000 annual visits to individuals in various institutions and organizations across multiple states.

Educationally, Rachel McPherson pursued studies at the School of Visual Arts and New York University before obtaining a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from the University of Mississippi, cementing a strong academic foundation to complement her professional achievements.

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Location

Greater New York City Area