Nicole Shumate, JD
Executive Director, Founder

Nicole's dedication to Paws & Effect is unparalleled.  Her professional experience as an attorney combined with her BA in psychology combine to support Paws & Effect in its nonprofit administration and its commitment to the human-animal bond.  Recognized as an esteemed community leader and 40 Under 40 recipient, Nicole grant writes, implements special projects and advocates for changes in service dog legislation.

Asheley Anderson, KPA-CTP
Lead Trainer

Ashley's ongoing success training service dogs draws from her experiences at the Karen Pryor Academy and puppy raising for Guide Dogs For The Blind.  Across a multitude of breeds, Ashley has a demonstrated ability to both identify and bring out the best features in every dog.  Ashley's collaborative effort with Missouri Puppies For Parole in 2017 resulted in the successful placement of a successor service dog in the internationally visible case between the United States Department of Justice and Gates Chili School District.