Operation Freedom Paws Board of Directors:
| Mary Cortani President and Executive Director of Operations |
Mary is a US Army veteran and a certified Army Master Instructor of Canine Education as well as an American Kennel Club Certified Canine Good Citizen© Evaluator. Mary has owned businesses in both information technology and dog training. As both a veteran and a dog expert, she is uniquely qualified to evaluate and match dogs with the veterans who need them. She draws on her extensive experience as a trainer of dogs for military operations and search and rescue to help each client with his/her unique situation. |
| Diane Jimenez Secretary |
Diane is a Program Manager with more than 15 years experience in Business Operations. The daughter of a 2-tour Vietnam Combat veteran, Diane is deeply committed to serving her father’s fellow veterans on his behalf and in his honor. She has been has been involved with OFP since 2011 as a civilian client and volunteer. |
| Dennis McLaughlin Treasurer |
Dennis is a decorated Vietnam veteran who initially came to OFP as a client with his dog Abbey. He understands all too well the many issues veterans face when they return from combat, and how training a dog to perform specific tasks can help. Denny and Abbey became an OFP-certified service dog team in 2013. Denny’s previous experience as a business owner, board member, treasurer and volunteer with various for- and non-profit organizations brings an additional level of expertise to OFP’s Board of Directors. |
| Nicole Martinez Director |
As the daughter of a retired career marine, who served in Vietnam and many tours overseas throughout his 20+ year military career, Nicole understands the demands of having a father in the military and the impact of that service on the family unit. Nicole has over 15 years experience in Information Technology Management. She is 2nd Vice President of the San Jose Women’s 500 Club Board of Directors. |
