Wednesday is more than hump day for members of the AIC Admissions team. That day is one they look forward to because of a weekly visit from a furry friend. 

Woody, the resident therapy dog on the AIC campus, stopped by the Admissions office on Wednesday, January 18, on the first day of the spring semester. He began visiting administrative offices before the start of the pandemic. Vice President for Admissions Kerry Cole says the staff enjoyed the visits so much, they asked his owner, Executive Assistant to the President Candy Lash, to stop by weekly, and the term “Woody Wednesdays” was coined. 

Cole says her staff finds Woody’s visits are not only a nice break in their day, but also provide stress relief and a sense of camaraderie. “Seeing Woody and Candy can brighten even the darkest of days. We love Woody Wednesdays and hope to have them continue for many years to come.”

When Cole’s two-and-a-half-year-old son Will visits campus, he always makes a point to visit with Woody. The gentle dog has made quite an impression on Will, who even has a stuffed animal, whom he has fondly named Woody Lash. 

The real-life Woody is a certified pet therapy dog who not only provides stress relief to staff (and their children) but also offers comfort to AIC students who feel any pressure over classes and exams. The golden retriever mix was adopted by Lash as a rescue from Texas and received training from Bright Spot Therapy Dogs of West Brookfield, MA. Now, instead of wandering the streets, Woody makes his weekly rounds on campus, offering support where it’s needed. His reward is lots of love and treats in return.

You can see more about Woody in the following stories covered by WWLP–22News and The Republican/MassLive:

WWLP-22News: Therapy dog makes a difference at AIC

MassLive: AIC’s therapy dog ‘Woody’ soothes souls on campus