Emily Kieson, PhD, MS, is Executive Director of Equine International, a nonprofit research institute focused on equine behavior, welfare, and equine–human interactions. She holds a PhD in Experimental Psychology and an MS in Psychology from Oklahoma State University, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Equine Science from the University of Edinburgh. Dr. Kieson previously served as Research Director at the MiMer Centre in Sweden and currently teaches and develops courses for Husson University, Unity Environmental University, and Post University. Her research and publications focus on equine social behavior, affiliative and pro-social interactions, equine-assisted services, and compassionate interspecies relationships. She serves as an Associate Editor for the HETI Journal, is a reviewer for Anthrozoös, and has held leadership roles with PATH International and the European Equine Facilitated Therapy Network.