Charlie, a 2-year-old Golden Retriever, started his role as a service dog supporting student mental health and wellness initiatives at the College earlier this summer.
Charlie recently completed a rigorous training program with the ASISTA Foundation, during which he logged over 5,000 hours of training. This extensive preparation has equipped him to respond to various commands and assist in multiple situations.
The ASISTA Foundation rescues dogs from challenging circumstances and trains them to assist children and adults with mental health conditions. The Foundation also trains service dog handlers to build effective canine-human partnerships.
At Marianopolis, Charlie will work closely with the Office of the Associate Dean, Student Success, and Student Affairs to foster a calm and reassuring environment for students facing stressful situations. He will live with his primary handler, Academic Advisor Tanja Geurtsen, who will bring him to the College every day.
Charlie’s presence on campus will contribute to the strong sense of student support and community at Marianopolis.
The College extends its thanks to Penelope Kostopoulos, Alex Polkki, Josie Cavaliere, Amanda Guay, Tanja Geurtsen, and Maria Elena Abraham – all members of the taskforce who worked out all the details and logistics of Charlie’s integration.