Meet the Board

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Anakin – The Heart & Soul

Founder & CEO

If Pup-n-Cup had a heartbeat, it would be Anakin. The spark that lit the fire. The original dreamer who looked at the world, saw all the barriers in his way, and said, “Nah, we can do better.”

From navigating inaccessible buildings to feeling shut out of spaces where he should’ve belonged, Anakin has lived the reality of being underestimated. But instead of letting those moments define him, he used them as fuel.

He’s the guy who shows up with big ideas and even bigger heart. The one reminding us why we’re here, why we care, and why inclusion isn’t optional—it’s essential. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t quite fit in, Anakin made this space for you. And chances are, if you see him around, he’ll offer you a conversation that just might change the way you see the world.

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Elizabeth – Non-profit Queen & Mom Boss

Executive Director & Board President

If Pup-n-Cup had a backbone, it would be Elizabeth. She's our non-profit powerhouse and our resident dog trainer—because of course she is. (Seriously, is there anything she can’t do?)

Elizabeth is the one making sure we actually function—legally, financially, and strategically. From sorting out permits to building partnerships that keep our mission growing, she’s the calm in the storm and the reason everything doesn’t catch on fire (metaphorically... and sometimes literally).

But it’s not all paperwork and policy—Elizabeth’s also the heart of our community-building efforts. She believes in people. Deeply. And she brings that same energy to every dog cuddle, staff meeting, and heartfelt conversation with a customer. She’s the type of person who remembers your dog’s name and your big life news. Her nurturing spirit is the secret ingredient that turns Pup-n-Cup from a business into a family

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Leon – The Anakin Whisperer

Board Secretary

Leon may not be front and center, but make no mistake—he’s always there. He’s our Board Secretary, operations assistant, and—perhaps most importantly—Anakin’s unofficial handler.

He’s the one gently guiding Anakin back to Earth with his wild ideas with a dry comment, a well-timed sigh, or just a look that says, “Okay, but how are we building that... today?”

Sarcastic? Absolutely. Helpful? Always.

Also worth noting: he really, really loves his dog.

Dierdre – Operations Wizard & Advocate Extraordinaire

Founder, COO, & Board VP

Anakin’s number one fan (though she mostly shows it through relentless sisterly teasing). But make no mistake—her heart beats just as loudly for this mission. Dierdre is a fierce advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and creating a world that doesn’t just accommodate people—it celebrates them.

She’s not in this to be a face. In fact, she’ll actively dodge the spotlight, but she’s always nearby, making sure things run smoothly, creatively, and on time-ish. With a background that spans what feels like millions of years in customer service and hospitality, Dierdre knows how to juggle chaos with grace and a well-placed sarcastic comment.

Her “why” is deeply personal and all she needs to fuel her—she’s doing this for her brother, for everyone who has felt on the outside of society, and for her daughter.

Abigail (Miss Abby) – Our Logo Inspiration

Abigail—fondly known as Abby—was more than just a dog. At 180 pounds, she was a presence in every room she walked into: gentle, goofy, loyal, and deeply loved.

She’s the inspiration behind our logo and the reason our brand colors feel like home.

Though she’s no longer with us, she remains a huge part of our hearts, our story, and the space we’re building here.