Our board is made up of volunteers, passionate about helping our clients live their best lives. Each brings their unique talents to our team, together helping move the organization’s mission, vision, and financial stability forward.
Andrea Maney – Chair – became involved with TESSD as a client in 2017 when her daughter was partnered with a psychiatric service dog, Brody. Watching how they work together and meeting others with similar experiences drives her passion for TESSD’s mission from the client’s perspective. Andrea has an extensive background in IT, which she utilizes to manage our website and social media. She is also constantly working to streamline our application process as well as other client reach-outs through meaningful process automation wherever possible. She has over 15 years of experience volunteering and supporting non-profits such as Scouts and a local dog & cat rescue. She lives with her two kids, two cats, and Brody, the Exceptional Sidekick.
Tara Conway – President – has more than 20 years of experience in public relations, including business launches, fundraising, marketing, corporate communication, and crisis management. She’s the mother of three children and currently resides in Fairfield, CT. Tara has been involved with The Exceptional Sidekick since 2018, when her teenage daughter began owner-training her own service dog under the guidance of Abby Hill. This process was life-changing for her family and allowed her daughter to eventually return to school and a productive lifestyle.
Joanna Rosen, PsyD – Mental Health Consultant – is a licensed clinical psychologist who brings more than 25 years of experience in the treatment of traumatic stress to our organization. Through her clinical practice and trauma consultancy, she helps individuals and communities better understand the impact of trauma so they can improve support and be part of the healing process. A longtime Newtown resident, Joanna was first introduced to The Exceptional Sidekick when she sought guidance to help her rescue dog, Zeus, transition from shelter to family life. Big sister Phoebe received her full education at The Exceptional Pet (TEP), and her younger brother, Leonard, is one of TEP’s newest students.
DJ Ledina – Treasurer – brings more than 25 years of experience in finance and operations to support effective governance and long‑term organizational sustainability. He works within IBM’s IT Asset Recovery Services, leading operational transformation of sustainability and circularity initiatives across North America. D.J.’s commitment to the organization is driven by a personal belief in the transformative impact service animals have on independence, confidence, and emotional well‑being. He is dedicated to helping expand access to these life‑changing partnerships for individuals and families who need them most.
Christine Dangers – Board Member – brings many years of experience in office management to our Board. She currently works full-time as a Medical Assistant, as a doula labor support for postpartum moms and newborns, and previously published her own Holistic Magazine. You may recognize her as the voice behind the Exceptional Pet or the handler of Chip one of our Therapy Dogs. She rescued Chip and knew he was something special as she went through all of the training opportunities at The Exceptional Pet prior to her position there. They are quite the team as they volunteer at their local library, skateboard, and learn tricks to share and bring joy to others. Christine loves spending time with her two daughters and is excited to begin her new role as a grandmother!
Mirelle Norma – Board Member – brings more than 15 years of experience in corporate project management, including managing timelines and multimillion-dollar budgets. She found TESSD while searching for assistance to train her dog as a service dog for her son. She is the mother of two boys who have inspired her to fiercely advocate for neurodivergent children, especially autistic members of our community.
Pia Ledina – Board Member – has been an avid supporter since The Exceptional Sidekick was just a brilliant idea. After serving as a teacher/puppy raiser for our very first litter of Service Dogs (and more than a few after that!), she (and her family) saw the incredible benefits of therapy and service dogs firsthand; she needed to share in our mission directly by joining the Board. Pia is a Library Media Specialist at Western Middle School in Greenwich, CT, a “book lady” who also finds time to play with her family and rescue dogs & cats. Pia brings more than 25 years of passion and experience in teaching, marketing, writing, and editing to the team, along with an overwhelming love for dogs to share with all!
Heather Groothuis – Board Member joined The Exceptional Sidekick after being inspired by the organization’s mission through Community Ambassador Fellow and board member, Andrea Maney. She brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare, disability advocacy, and digital accessibility, with a focus on improving care pathways and advancing ADA inclusion. Heather co-leads the ABLE (Achieving Better Lives for Everyone) employee resource group at a Fortune 500 company and is recognized nationally for her work in accessibility and neurodiversity education. She lives in Minnesota with her pugs, Roxy & Daisy, and her mini dachshund service dog, Boogie. Heather is passionate about expanding awareness and access to service dog programs nationwide.
