New Directors

Belleville – At its Annual General Meeting on May 15, 2025 the Board of Directors unanimously welcomed new directors Katherine MacIver and Ashley Rushnell to its volunteer Board.

“Ashley and Katherine are both community minded, and have both worked and volunteered within the charitable sector. They are thoughtful, generous, and above all have love and compassion for all animals, particularly those in need.” commented, Greg Sudds, Chair, Board of Directors. “Both bring skill sets and knowledge in the areas of board governance, fundraising, education and community outreach that will enhance and complement those already at the Board Table”.

Re-elected to the volunteer Board of Directors are Chair Greg Sudds, Vice-Chair Peter Kempenaar, Treasurer Daniel Ringham, Secretary Arlene Shepard, and Directors Brenda Bond, David Joyce, Wendy McCoy, Nicole Peters and Rhonda Schmidt.

In his report at the meeting, Sudds remarked that 2024 was a transformative year for HSHPE with many highlights, most notably: the capital loan extensions which are now interest free, the revised pound contract with Quinte West, the retirement of Executive Director Marilyn Lawrie and the updated Mission Statement.  He also extended his gratitude to all the donors who supported the wellness and adoption of animals as well as the various outreach and community programs.

Chair Sudds also thanked all the volunteers who devoted countless hours helping with the care of animals, fundraising events, and administrative tasks. Special thanks were extended to the HSHPE Volunteer Fundraising Committee led by Tracey Bunnett.

It was reported at the meeting that in 2024 the Humane Society took in 1,095 cats, 440 dogs, 86 small animals, 12 birds and 2 reptiles.

In his summary, Sudds thanked the Board Members for their continued efforts in guiding the organization forward and for their ongoing and devoted support. He also expressed gratitude to the dedicated senior staff including Marilyn Lawrie, J-C D’Amours, Marja Smith, the administrative staff, and to all the Animal Care Attendants for their ongoing kindness and empathy for animals and people in need.