From USM’s first therapy dog, Cash Money, to today’s golden trio of Sunday, Blaze, and Reuben, Mel Lowery and her team bring smiles and comfort to students all across campus.
To learn more about her journey and the heart behind Southern Miss’ beloved therapy dogs, we reached out to Mel for a Q&A.
Q: Can you share a little about yourself and your story?
Mel: I graduated from the University of Memphis and started my career in insurance before shifting gears to become a stay-at-home mom to my two boys. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, running, and visiting national parks.
But it was through the running community that my next chapter began. My husband and I fundraised for the St. Jude Marathon, and when we visited the hospital, I was introduced to their incredible therapy dog team. Seeing the comfort and joy those dogs brought lit a spark in me. In 2020, our family brought home Cash Money — my very first therapy dog — and that’s when this journey truly began!
Q: What drew you to begin volunteering at Southern Miss?
Mel: In 2021, I reached out to the University while training Cash Money. Southern Miss didn’t yet have therapy dogs, but once Cash was certified, they welcomed us with open arms. Since then, we’ve volunteered at campus events big and small, and we quickly became part of the Southern Miss community.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the therapy dogs!
Mel: My first therapy pup, Cash Money, was a true angel. He had the sweetest golden retriever heart and was so well-behaved that students couldn’t help but fall in love with him.
Sunday, on the other hand, brings a little more spice and mischief to the job. She’s always doing something extra, like jumping into the fountains or sneaking a snack from the Fresh. Although she can be a handful, she’s already carrying on Cash’s legacy of loving students deeply.
Then there’s Blaze, the goldendoodle, who we like to call the true professional. He has such a calm nature and really embodies what a therapy dog is all about. Still, he makes us laugh quite a bit with his boujee quirks. For instance, Blaze refuses to share a water bowl with the other dogs!
Goldendoodle Blaze, aka the “Dean of Therapy Dogs,” strikes a pose at Trent Lott.
And Rueben, also a golden retriever, is just a sweetheart. He’s well-mannered, always ready for love, and naturally happy. He does have a huge crush on Sunday, though. So sometimes we have to separate the two lovebirds!
Sunday, Blaze, and Reuben reporting for game day.
How do your therapy dogs support students’ well-being?
Mel: From the very beginning, I saw that Cash had a special way of making students feel truly loved. During COVID, he brought calm, comfort, and connection to students when they needed it most.
Not long after, Blaze and his owner, Nichol Green, joined our therapy team, adding even more support. After Cash passed, I trained Sunday, and soon Reuben and his handler, Hannah Barnard, became part of the family too. Together, the three pups remind students they’re not alone.
Q: Since beginning your volunteering journey at Southern, what are some of your favorite memories?
Mel: I love when a student who’s had a rough day hugs the pups and says, “It’s better now.” That alone reminds me that every volunteer hour is worth it.
Another favorite memory was when Cash and I first met Dr. Paul. The moment he saw Cash, he opened his arms wide, and Cash ran straight to him — even gave him a kiss! From that day forward, Dr. Paul has been one of our biggest supporters.
Cash Money greeting President Dr. Joe Paul for the first time.
Q: What lasting impression do you hope the therapy dogs leave on students?
Mel: I hope students remember that the unconditional love of a dog can brighten even the toughest days. Our three therapy teams are here to remind them that they’re truly cared for. And if you ever need us, don’t hesitate to reach out!
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