About Sarah
Read Sarah’s biography, published in American Psychologist, by clicking here
Sarah Leighton (née Birman) is currently a PhD candidate at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine with the OHAIRE Lab, led by Dr. Maggie O’Haire, with degree conferral expected May 2025. Sarah earned her BA (Neurobiology & Behavior) from Cornell University and her MS (Psychology of Human-Animal Interaction) from Purdue University.
From 2010-2021, Sarah worked at the national non-profit service dog provider Canine Companions – first as an Assistance Dogs International (ADI) Certified Service Dog trainer and most recently as their National Director of Training and Client Services. Sarah has spent her career dedicated to examining the role of human-animal interaction in enhancing human mental health and wellness, specifically regarding service dog partnerships. Her work and contributions have been recognized through numerous honors and awards, including the 2024 Award for Excellence in Scholarship (College of Science, University of Arizona) and the 2024 Award for Distinguished Graduate Student in Professional Psychology (American Psychological Association).
Outside of work, Sarah enjoys rock climbing, travel, escape rooms, reading, and spending time with her husband Adam and Rohan, the Canine Companions future service dog they are raising.
