We are accountable to a volunteer board of directors. The Board focuses on policy and governance, setting goals and strategies for the organization, and monitoring its performance. They provide independent and objective oversight of our operations, ensuring our best long-term interests. Please see our Governance page to learn more about our board of directors.
We are led across our organizations on a day to day basis by a committed team of staff at multiple levels throughout our organization, across different functional area’s. Below is a short list of some of our many individuals who ensure that our mission is moving forward each and every day.
Dr. Jacques Messier, DVM, MBAChief Executive OfficerDr. Karen Ward, DVMChief Veterinary OfficerPhil Nichols, CAWA, RVTChief Operations OfficerTegan Buckingham, CFRE, MSADirector, Integrated Marketing and DevelopmentCarol Boulding, CHRLDirector, Human ResourcesCatherine Anne MacDonaldControllerJacklyn Ellis, MRes, PhD, CAABDirector, BehaviourGreg RatelleSenior Manager, Client Care and Partnerships
As an organization, we are working to overcome many challenges standing in the way of a more humane community. In order to best combat the issues and improve the lives of animals we take a multi-disciplinary approach to ensure we are moving our mission forward. Below you will meet our leaders who are dedicated to achieving this mission and leading our team of volunteers, foster parents and staff forward.
Melissa Shupak, CPDT – Division Manager, Shelter ProgramsLauren McIntyre, RVT – Assistant Manager, Shelter Veterinary CareChristopher Sadowsky – Assistant Manager, Shelter Animal CareJoy OBrien – Assistant Manager, Admissions and Rehoming
Lauralee Dorst, RVT – Division Manager, Public Veterinary ServicesAlison Campbell, RVT – Assistant Manager, Public Veterinary Services
Linda Jacobson BVSc, MMedVet(Med), PhD, Senior Manager, Shelter Medicine Advancement
Kerry Gibson – Division Manager, FundraisingAlisha Uglow – Assistant Manager, FundraisingJessica Harwood – Assistant Manager, Marketing
Azeem Haider – Senior Manager, ITMathew Casullo – Manager, FacilitiesJose Rodriguez – Manager, Procurement and Logistics
Brittney Stratuik – Coordinator, Human Resources
Shubham Maini – DEI Coordinator
Since childhood, Dillon has been passionate about the healing power of animals. She has always sought opportunities to bring people and animals together, whether through animal-assisted therapy or equine-facilitated therapy.
Dillon’s educational background in Social Work includes a Master’s degree from University of Toronto and a Bachelor’s degree from McMaster University. She has also obtained certifications relevant to her field of specialization, including the Clinical Traumatologist designation from the Traumatology Institute Training Curriculum, the Supervisors/Managers Certificate from the Hostels Training Centre, and the Understanding and Managing Aggressive Behaviour certification.
Dillon is a compassionate member of the Toronto Humane Society team who brings a unique perspective to her role as the Urgent Care Program Manager. With over a decade of experience as a professional social worker, Dillon is committed to providing the best possible care for animals in need. Her extensive background in supporting marginalized communities has been instrumental in the development of the Urgent Care program and the associated training manual. Dillon approaches her work through a resilience framework, employing trauma-informed practices and leading with recovery-oriented treatment. Her commitment to animal welfare and her professional expertise make her an invaluable member of Toronto Humane Society’s skilled team.
