story paws: A therapy dog organization

Elyse Ramirez Lizarazo is the CEO and founder of Story Paws, a 100% veteran owned therapy dog organization, with her husband Steven. Story Paws is a registered Texas nonprofit and works with Hope Healthcare hospice, elementary schools, all abilities organizations, Children’s Health, fire stations, and hosts special therapy dog events within the community.

Elyse and Raja (therapy dog) are a volunteer therapy dog team with Pet Partners; and, she is also a licensed Pet Partners Instructor. Elyse has her Masters in Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and works during the day as a procurement analyst specializing in fraud mitigation. As a member of Junior League Collin County, she completed her Facilitative Leadership training in March 2025.

Elyse, Steven and Raja (Coast Guard Flotilla mascot) volunteer with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, where Elyse serves as the Division Marine Safety Officer, Division Navigation Officer, and the flotilla’s Marine Safety Officer.

In their free time, Elyse and Steven enjoy hanging out with Raja, their kids, and their adorable grandson. She especially enjoys outdoor activities and creating new memories with loved ones.

Steven Lizarazo is the co-founder and Board Treasurer of Story Paws. Steven is a Veteran of the United States Air Force and was stationed in Biloxi, Mississippi and specialized in Cyber Security. He currently works as an Enterprise Client Solutions Specialist for a company in his hometown of Salt Lake City, Utah.

Steven has two Bachelors Degrees from the University of Utah, in Psychology, and Human Development- Family & Consumer Studies. Steven joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary in 2022, and previously served as the Flotilla Operations Staff Officer. He has specialized in Search and Rescue since 2023.

Steven find purpose in his family and giving back to the community. He is passionate about passing down a legacy of love and making the world a better place for his children and grandson.

In his free time, Steven enjoys spending time with his family, especially his adorable grandson.

Luis Ramirez is the Board Secretary of Story Paws. His attention to detail and excellent organizational skills make him the perfect fit for this role. He also enjoys driving Raja around and participating in visits.

Luis is retired/semi-retired from scenic and lighting design. He worked as a professor at multiple universities and is proud to see his former students and the successes they’ve had. He continues to support them by staying in contact, and attending their shows.

Luis is an active member of his church, and regularly gives back to the community by participating in community drives for food, clothing, and toys for children. All dogs are friends with Luis, including his granddog, Raja, and his best furry friend, Lily. He loves spending time with his family, and enjoys four generations, including the newest family addition, his great grandson.

Pamela Evers is a Board Member of Story Paws.  Pam is a proud Navy Veteran and continues to serve her country and community through her volunteerism.

Pam is a solo practitioner attorney based in McKinney Texas and licensed to practice law in the State of Texas, District of Columbia, and the U.S. Supreme Court. She holds four degrees, including a B.S., M.B.A., J.D., and LL.M.   She has experience in publishing and editing, and supported Elyse during her thesis work.

Pam owns a beautiful farm, where she has cows, donkeys, horses, chickens, cats, dogs, and more. An avid animal lover, Pam is an animal advocate. A variety of animals have found her home as a rescue, including Hero, a brave dog who Pam found in an abandoned shack just after Hero had given birth to puppies. She has saved several horses that were bound for slaughter, and is passionate about protecting our national parks and animal wellness.

Sherry Jones is a Board Member of Story Paws.

Sherry is an East Texas native. She attended Stephen F. AUstin State University and obtained a Bachelors of Science in Biology prior to attending The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She obtained her Masters of Science in Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She is currently working on her Doctor of Nursing Practice.

In her free time, Sherry enjoys reading and sewing. She is also the owner of Arsen Owl, a small business featuring hand-sewn items including reusable items. Arsen Owl items can be found at the Nacogdoches Farmer’s Market, as well as seasonal fairs and festivals.

Sherry loves spending time with her family, and welcomed her beautiful daughter into the world in 2024.