Meet the People Behind the Movement

Our Staff

We are a small but mighty group of animal and human welfare professionals dedicated to the HASS mission, vision, and values.

Elkie Wills

HASS Director

23711

Ellen Jefferson, DVM

President and CEO

10352

Amanda Foster

Assistant Director of Implementation Analysis

12359

Nichole Hazard

Maddie’s® Associate Director of Marketing and Communications

18222

Jenifer Reed

Maddie’s® Program Implementation Trainer

14756

Gareth Meredith

Data Engineer and Analyst

17932

Tom Kremer

Data Analyst

12366

Angela Gates

Data and Digital Tools Coordinator

13759

Heather Kalman

Research and Development Data Coordinator

14630

Kate McHugh-Westfall

Embedded Data and Implementation Coordinator

13763

Natasha Ottati

Embedded Data and Implementation Coordinator

18135

Project Advisors & Collaborators

Industry leaders who provide expert direction and collaborate with HASS daily to generate positive impact and coordinate program initiatives effectively.

Diaz Dixon

Maddie’s® Advisor for External Affairs and Partnerships

16842

Maggie Lynch

Senior Director of Research and Development

17835

Angela Nazworth

Senior Director of Strategic Communications

17836

Managing Executive Committee

Among the founding HASS project members, this committee comprises of long-time industry veterans and active participants in the HASS movement that are devoted to supporting and promoting the community-centric model across the nation.

Brenda Barnette

Former General Manager, LA Animal Services

19560

Dr. Josh Fisher

Director, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control

20102

Chris Fitzgerald

Director, Rochester Animal Services

20108

Rebecca Guinn

CEO, LifeLine Animal Project

20174

Gina Knepp

National Shelter Engagement Director, Michelson Found Animals

20177

Matt Pepper

President and CEO, Michigan Humane

20180

Mike Wheeler

Director of Community Services, Cabot Animal Support Services

20183

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