About Campus K9s

Welcome to Campus K9s, Inc.! We are dedicated to enhancing the educational experience for students through the transformative power of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) dogs. Our goal is to provide trained support dogs to schools, fostering emotional well-being, connection, and resilience within the school community.

Driven by Purpose: How Campus K9s Began

Campus K9s, Inc. was established in 2023 from its founders unwavering commitment to the profound positive transformations that Social Emotional Learning (SEL) dogs have on the school environment.

In response to the growing financial challenges faced by school districts in acquiring SEL dogs, Campus K9s emerged with a powerful mission: to provide trained dogs to eligible schools, fueled by the generosity of private and corporate contributions, grants, and in-kind gifts.

Guided by our founders' extensive experience in dog training, our Board of Directors is further comprised of experts in human resources, education, and the criminal justice system. Our Board is steadfast in their conviction that SEL dogs wield immense influence that benefit social-emotional learning, mental health, and relationship-building capabilities.

Registered 501(c)(3)

We are thrilled to announce that Campus K9s, Inc. has received official recognition as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Our IRS Determination Letter confirms our tax-exempt status, making all donations and purchases from our store tax-deductible under Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code.

On October 20, 2023, we received our State of Michigan Articles of Incorporation letter, and in November 2023, the State of Michigan granted us the right to request Charitable Solicitations under Registration #67574. Our Tax ID is 93-3807155.

Thank you for your continued support of our mission to provide trained support dogs to schools. You can view our IRS Determination Letter here. Financial statements are available upon request.

Board of Directors

  • Kristy Green

    Co-Founder and Executive Director

    Kristy Greenis a Certified Dog Trainer, Holistic Pet Health Coach, and Animal Aromatherapist with decades of experience in animal care, training, and breeding. She brings a thorough understanding of animal health and behavior paired with a talent for identifying the genetics that result in animals uniquely suited for their future role. As lead trainer, Green is also deeply involved with schools and host families to ensure the environment exists for a successful, long-term SEL placement. "I have witnessed the difference our dogs are making in schools."

  • Tom Green

    Co-Founder and Vice President, Donor Relations

    Tom Green is a former Public Safety and K-9 Official with 35 years of service. In addition to managing Green Acres Labradors, he is active in the evaluation, selection, and training of SEL puppy candidates. His breadth of experience in canine and mounted (Equine) police work and as a human and dog trainer enables him to help schools and host families support handler success. Green believes SEL dogs are a vital part of the educational process and a value to our kids’ growth. "Every kid deserves a dog….and the chance to thrive in a supportive learning environment."

  • Chris Michel

    President

    Chris Michel is a former Human Resources executive with 30 years of automotive and energy company experience. As a member of several not-for-profit boards, she brings experience in strategic planning, governance, and business consulting to support the growth and success of Campus K9s. In addition, Michel is an International Coaching Federation-certified Coach. She believes that education is one our highest national priorities and is deeply committed to supporting students to reach their full potential.

  • Lori Taylor

    Secretary

    Lori Taylor is a school administrator in the Waterford school district, who has seen firsthand the positive influence a well-trained dog can have on a learning community. She feels strongly that all schools should have a dog on campus. With experience in both the classroom and administration, Lori has prioritized the importance of students’ social-emotional learning, mental health, and ability to build relationships and states that their SEL dog has been a crucial component in all three facets.

  • Julie Nelson

    Treasurer

    Julie Nelson has been an educator in a public school district for the last 22 years. In addition, she brings professional experience in the automotive supplier and banking industries. As a teacher, Nelson has firsthand insight into the day-to-day challenges faced by students and has seen the difference an SEL dog can make in the school environment. "I believe the SEL dogs have an important role in all schools."

  • Kristen Tesauro

    Director

    Kristen is a Positive Behavior Intervention Specialist at an elementary school, with a background in psychology and a strong passion for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). Kristen is also the proud handler of Molly, an SEL Dog from Campus K9s. Kristen believes that SEL Dogs are a powerful tool in nurturing students’ mental health, offering a unique and soothing presence that helps students navigate challenges and build emotional strength. Through her work, Kristen continues to champion the importance of emotional support animals in educational settings, creating a positive, nurturing space for all students to thrive.

  • Jenni Jones-Tims

    Director

    Jones-Tims is an educator in South Lyon and the handler for her school’s SEL dog, Louie. Her expertise in early childhood education and her professional experiences reinforce the importance of a collaborative, supportive, and safe learning environment. Jones-Tims says of her SEL dog handling experience: "The comfort, joy, and emotional support that Louie brings to our school community is immeasurable. Louie lifts moods, provides calm when a student is in crisis, and makes our school feel more like home."