Demand Justice for Auburn Valley Humane Society Staff and Animals
Demand Justice for Auburn Valley Humane Society Staff and Animals
The Issue
The Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) has long been an important institution in the community, providing shelter and care for vulnerable animals. The staff at AVHS play a vital role in this mission, and it is essential that they work in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.
However, there have been multiple reported concerns regarding the leadership of CEO Phillip Morgan, which include allegations of misconduct, mismanagement, and harassment. These concerns have been raised by several current and former employees, though some have expressed fear of retaliation and job insecurity. These allegations have led to ongoing concerns about the organizational environment at AVHS.
The AVHS Board of Directors has been called to review these concerns, but it has been suggested that the Board has not fully addressed the issues raised, and this has contributed to a growing sense of frustration. If unresolved, these concerns could undermine the effectiveness of AVHS and potentially impact the well-being of both the staff and the animals under its care.
Given that the City of Auburn has a formal relationship with AVHS, including a contract, and plays an important role in overseeing the organization’s operations, the City is invited to review the concerns that have been raised and consider the following actions:
Review the leadership of CEO Phil Morgan and assess whether any changes are necessary to restore a culture of transparency, accountability, and respect at AVHS.
Examine the AVHS Board of Directors’ response to the concerns raised and determine whether the Board has taken sufficient steps to address the reported allegations. It is important that the Board ensure a safe, supportive work environment for staff and continue to fulfill AVHS’s mission effectively.
Encourage the City of Auburn to use its contractual and governing influence to foster greater transparency from AVHS, including clearer communication about Board meetings, employee grievances, and organizational decisions.
Additionally, the AVHS Board of Directors is encouraged to conduct its own internal review of the leadership and its handling of employee grievances. Ensuring that the workplace environment is safe, respectful, and supportive for all employees is essential to the organization’s long-term success and its ability to serve the community.
Concerns have also been raised about the accessibility of AVHS Board meetings. Public participation has reportedly been hindered by unclear communication about meeting schedules and locations. For greater transparency, the City is invited to encourage AVHS to provide clear, timely details about future Board meetings and to ensure that these meetings are accessible to the public.
The City of Auburn is also invited to engage with the community at the upcoming meeting on February 3rd from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at City Hall, Council Chambers - 25 W Main St, Auburn, WA. This will provide an opportunity for members of the public to express their concerns directly and engage in constructive dialogue regarding these issues.
For those unable to attend in person, written comments can be submitted to the City of Auburn before the meeting. All comments must be received by 5:00 PM on the day of the meeting and should be no longer than 350 words.
Submit written comments by:
Email: publiccomment@auburnwa.gov
Mail: City of Auburn, Attn: Shawn Campbell, City Clerk, 25 W Main St, Auburn, WA 98001
Fax: 253-804-3116 (Attn: Shawn Campbell, City Clerk)
It is requested that the City of Auburn and the AVHS Board of Directors take these concerns into account and ensure that AVHS operates in alignment with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability. A thorough review of these issues is needed to ensure the continued success of AVHS and to protect the well-being of both the staff and the animals under its care.
Update 2/3/25 : Here is a link to the City of Auburn Council Meeting from 2/3/25.
https://www.youtube.com/live/0O1OOFPA3Tc?si=mrQAvdGLUc-LY1sm
Please take the time to listen to the perspectives shared by current and former staff at Auburn Valley Humane Society. This was a challenging and emotional day for those involved, and speaking out publicly was not an easy decision. The full board meeting is available, but if you start around the 13-minute mark, you'll hear the public comments. Staff members are asking for your support as they navigate these difficult circumstances
Thank you to the council for taking the time to listen and consider the voices of those directly impacted.
For further details on the reported allegations, please refer to the following articles:
Read more about the allegations:
Article 1: Auburn Examiner (https://auburnexaminer.com/allegations-of-harassment-and-mismanagement-emerge-at-auburn-valley-humane-society-under-current-ceo/
Article 2: KIRO 7 News (https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/auburn-animal-shelter-under-investigation/P6WOPDCRDVC4FMFQLEQUZYI32Q/?outputType=amp
Update 2/10/25: Ongoing Call for Transparency in Board Meetings
An important update regarding the ongoing call for transparency from the Board of Directors: Although a meeting time has been set, it has not been publicly disclosed to all AVHS staff or the public. This lack of transparency continues to raise concerns for those who seek to stay informed about decisions that impact them.
In the interest of fostering a more open and transparent environment, it is respectfully requested that the Board of Directors take the following steps:
- Public Access to Board Meetings: The meeting time, agendas, and minutes should be publicly disclosed to ensure that all stakeholders, including staff and the community, have access to the information and can participate in or stay informed about key decisions.
- Open Communication: Clear and accessible communication channels should be established for both the public and employees to share concerns, ask questions, and stay informed about decisions made during board meetings.
- Accountability and Engagement: The Board of Directors is encouraged to provide regular updates on the outcomes of meetings and engage with the public and employees in a meaningful way to address any concerns or questions raised.
How to Take Action:
Contact the Board Via Email/Call: Individuals are encouraged to reach out to board members to express interest in greater transparency and request that meeting details be publicly disclosed. While not all board members' contact information may be directly listed on the organization's website, some details can be found through the AVHS website, as the sponsors include certain board members who have links to their respective pages. For further inquiries, individuals can always call the shelter directly to inquire about the best way to reach out to board members. Additionally, a quick search online may provide additional helpful contact information
Engage with HR Via Call/Email: Contact Human Resources to inquire about the organization’s policy regarding board meetings and ask for more openness in the future.
Share the Petition: Share this petition with others who believe in the importance of transparency. Collective action can drive change and ensure that all stakeholders are informed.
Appreciation is extended to all who support the call for transparency, and it is hoped that the Board of Directors will consider these requests to ensure that all staff and the public are included in important organizational processes.
Below are the current Board Members from the AVHS Website:
Information
EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS
Alexis Singletary, JD– Board Chairperson
Adriann Dooly– Vice Chairperson
Bob Briggs - Secretary
Chris Kim - Treasurer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Don Edwards, DVM
Rick Oliveira, CPA, Past Chairperson
Miles Haney
Khristina Swanson
Maryellen Elcock
Rachel Tobias
Sam Nokes
Andrea Niemeyer
Human Resources:
Lisa Moore - Director of Human Resources
HR@auburnvalleyhs.org / lmoore@auburnvalleyhs.org
Shelter Phone number 253.249.7849 ext.1
Update:Feb 18, 2025
Upcoming AVHS Board Meeting - February 20, 2025
Hello everyone,
Thank you for your patience, and apologies for the delay in sharing this update. I’m reaching out today to provide important details about the upcoming AVHS Board Meeting & New Co-CEO Position.
The AVHS Board of Directors has released details about the upcoming Board Meeting, which will be held on:
Date: Thursday, February 20th, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Best Western Mountain View Plus, 401 8th Street SW, Auburn, WA 98001
Important Details:
Online Attendance: A Teams online attendance option will be available, but the link has not yet been posted. It will be included in the meeting agenda, which is expected to be available on the AVHS website by 2/13/2025. The Agenda can be found on the AVHS Facebook page posted on 2/15/2025
Public Comment: Anyone wishing to comment in person during the Visitor portion of the meeting must submit their name and city of residence by 5 PM on Wednesday, 2/19/2025 to info@auburnvalleyhs.org.
Written Comments: Those unable to attend in person may submit written comments by 5 PM on 2/19/2025 to info@auburnvalleyhs.org
Discrepancies: There are some discrepancies regarding the meeting time and online link on the website and social media; at the moment, no link is available.
Call to Action: Template for Public Comments
If you wish to submit a comment during the Visitor portion of the meeting, feel free to use the following template as a base and edit it to reflect your concerns:
Subject: Public Comment for AVHS Board Meeting on February 20, 2025
Dear AVHS Board of Directors,
I am writing to express concerns about the leadership at AVHS.
CEO Phillip Morgan’s Leadership: I urge the Board to remove CEO Phillip Morgan and replace him with leadership committed to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of staff and animals.
Qualifications for New CEO Position: The new CEO role lacks qualifications in veterinary medicine and animal services, which is concerning given the role’s responsibilities. I request that the Board ensure the selected candidate has the appropriate qualifications.
Public Access to Board Meetings: I also encourage the Board to increase transparency and make board meetings more accessible to the public.
I respectfully request that the AVHS Board of Directors take these concerns into consideration, and act in the best interests of the staff, the animals, and the community.
Thank you for your time and attention to these matters.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your City of Residence]
Concerns Regarding the New CEO Position:
In addition to the Board Meeting, there is a significant development regarding the new CEO of Operations & Animal Services position at AVHS that warrants attention.
For more information about the position and to view the job posting, you can follow the link here: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –
Auburn Valley Humane Society. This link will take you to current listings and you will need to select Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –
Auburn Valley Humane Society to view the position and its details.
Not a Replacement for CEO Phil Morgan: The newly created CEO of Operations & Animal Services position is not intended to replace current CEO (Of Strategic Planning and Business Development) 3Phil Morgan. Instead, it creates a co-CEO model, where Phil Morgan will continue overseeing business development and planning, while the new CEO will focus exclusively on the daily operations of specific areas. The new role will manage only the NW Spay/Neuter Clinic (Tacoma) and the AVHS Shelter (Auburn). Meanwhile, Phil Morgan will continue to oversee two locations—the Cat Cafe and AVHS Thrift Store will operate independently and are not under the operations CEO's management.
Lack of Qualifications for the New Position: This new role will involve overseeing operations, staff management, budgets, and day-to-day activities for two locations. There is no requirement for the new CEO to have any veterinary or animal services experience. This is concerning, as the person filling this role would be in charge of running two locations with significant responsibilities, including animal care and managing staff. Given that the position lacks qualifications in veterinary medicine or animal services, there is a real risk that the new CEO may not be properly equipped to handle these complex responsibilities.
Failure to Address Leadership Issues: Ultimately, the creation of a new position does not address the root cause of the problem: the ongoing leadership challenges under CEO Phil Morgan. This move seems more like a temporary fix rather than a genuine effort to make real, meaningful changes. The board continues to avoid confronting the serious concerns raised about Morgan’s leadership, which have become a recurring issue, not just at AVHS, but in other organizations as well. By adding a new position without tackling the core problems, the board misses an opportunity to make substantive changes and take decisive action in the best interest of the staff, animals, and community.
Opportunity for Real Change: This is a critical moment for the AVHS Board of Directors to step up and demonstrate leadership. Instead of making temporary fixes, this is an opportunity for the board to make meaningful changes and lead by example. The board can demonstrate its commitment to excellence in animal welfare by ensuring that the organization’s leadership is aligned with its mission statement and values. AVHS should set a model of advancement in animal welfare, and that starts with holding leadership accountable and making bold decisions that prioritize the well-being of animals, staff, and the community.
Next Steps:
Submit your comment: Email your public comment (whether written or in-person) to info@auburnvalleyhs.org by 5 PM on 2/19/2025.
Attend the meeting: If possible, attend the meeting on February 20th in person or via the online Teams link once it's available.
Spread the word: Share this update with others who care about the future of AVHS and the well-being of the staff and animals under its care.
Our voices matter, and your continued support is crucial as we push for meaningful change at AVHS. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring that the animals and staff are treated with the respect and care they deserve. Thank you for standing up!
New Position Details via AVHS Website
"Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –
Auburn Valley Humane Society
Location: Auburn, WA (Regular travel to Tacoma, WA required)
Reports to: Board of Directors
About Auburn Valley Humane Society
Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) is dedicated to providing compassionate care, shelter, and advocacy for animals in need. AVHS operates a Shelter in Auburn, WA and a Spay/Neuter Clinic in Tacoma, WA, as well as a Cat Café and Thrift Store. Through its programs and services, AVHS works to create a humane and responsible environment for pets and people alike.
Position Overview
AVHS is seeking a hands-on Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Operations and Animal Services to provide strong leadership and operational oversight for the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic. Working directly with the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development and reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for stabilizing, optimizing, and improving these core programs following a period of organizational transition.
This position requires regular travel between the Auburn Shelter and the Tacoma Spay/Neuter Clinic, ensuring consistent leadership, staff support, and operational efficiency across both locations. Additionally, the CEO may serve as backup for the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development as needed, stepping in to support executive-level responsibilities.
The ideal candidate is a proven leader in animal welfare, veterinary services, or nonprofit management who thrives in culture transformation, operational efficiency, and team development. A Licensed Veterinary Professional is preferred but not required.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Culture TransformationEstablish and maintain a motivated, well-trained, and reliable team in the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic.
Lead a culture shift that fosters collaboration, accountability, and mission alignment.
Mentor and develop Shelter and Clinic Managers, ensuring strong leadership at every level.
Provide stability and direction to staff and volunteers during a period of organizational transition.
Serve as backup for the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development when needed, handling key leadership responsibilities and decision-making.
Operational & Financial OversightAnalyze and optimize Shelter and Clinic performance to meet financial and operational goals.
Develop and implement strategies to maximize clinic revenue and efficiency while ensuring high-quality animal care.
Ensure safe, effective, and compassionate daily operations in both the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic.
Prepare and present regular operational reports to the Board of Directors.
Strategic Growth & Community EngagementBuild and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including veterinary partners, donors, and the broader community.
Support fundraising and grant-writing efforts to secure resources for continued growth.
Work closely with volunteer coordination to enhance volunteer engagement in the Shelter and Clinic.
Scope of Role
The CEO of Operations and Animal Services will, in conjunction with the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development, oversee only the daily operations of the Spay/Neuter Clinic (Tacoma) and the Shelter (Auburn). The Cat Café and Thrift Store operate independently and are not under the operations CEO’s management.
Travel & Executive Support Requirements
This role requires regular travel between Auburn (Shelter) and Tacoma (Spay/Neuter Clinic) to provide on-site leadership, staff support, and operational oversight.
The CEO must be willing and able to step in as CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development when needed, ensuring continuity in leadership.
Reliable transportation is required.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Demonstrated leadership experience in animal welfare, veterinary services, nonprofit management, or related fields.
Strong change management and crisis leadership skills, with the ability to stabilize and strengthen an evolving organization.
Experience in budget management, operations analysis, and performance optimization.
Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams in a fast-paced environment.
Passion for animal welfare and deep commitment to AVHS’s mission.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Licensed Veterinary Professional preferred but not required."
583
The Issue
The Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) has long been an important institution in the community, providing shelter and care for vulnerable animals. The staff at AVHS play a vital role in this mission, and it is essential that they work in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.
However, there have been multiple reported concerns regarding the leadership of CEO Phillip Morgan, which include allegations of misconduct, mismanagement, and harassment. These concerns have been raised by several current and former employees, though some have expressed fear of retaliation and job insecurity. These allegations have led to ongoing concerns about the organizational environment at AVHS.
The AVHS Board of Directors has been called to review these concerns, but it has been suggested that the Board has not fully addressed the issues raised, and this has contributed to a growing sense of frustration. If unresolved, these concerns could undermine the effectiveness of AVHS and potentially impact the well-being of both the staff and the animals under its care.
Given that the City of Auburn has a formal relationship with AVHS, including a contract, and plays an important role in overseeing the organization’s operations, the City is invited to review the concerns that have been raised and consider the following actions:
Review the leadership of CEO Phil Morgan and assess whether any changes are necessary to restore a culture of transparency, accountability, and respect at AVHS.
Examine the AVHS Board of Directors’ response to the concerns raised and determine whether the Board has taken sufficient steps to address the reported allegations. It is important that the Board ensure a safe, supportive work environment for staff and continue to fulfill AVHS’s mission effectively.
Encourage the City of Auburn to use its contractual and governing influence to foster greater transparency from AVHS, including clearer communication about Board meetings, employee grievances, and organizational decisions.
Additionally, the AVHS Board of Directors is encouraged to conduct its own internal review of the leadership and its handling of employee grievances. Ensuring that the workplace environment is safe, respectful, and supportive for all employees is essential to the organization’s long-term success and its ability to serve the community.
Concerns have also been raised about the accessibility of AVHS Board meetings. Public participation has reportedly been hindered by unclear communication about meeting schedules and locations. For greater transparency, the City is invited to encourage AVHS to provide clear, timely details about future Board meetings and to ensure that these meetings are accessible to the public.
The City of Auburn is also invited to engage with the community at the upcoming meeting on February 3rd from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at City Hall, Council Chambers - 25 W Main St, Auburn, WA. This will provide an opportunity for members of the public to express their concerns directly and engage in constructive dialogue regarding these issues.
For those unable to attend in person, written comments can be submitted to the City of Auburn before the meeting. All comments must be received by 5:00 PM on the day of the meeting and should be no longer than 350 words.
Submit written comments by:
Email: publiccomment@auburnwa.gov
Mail: City of Auburn, Attn: Shawn Campbell, City Clerk, 25 W Main St, Auburn, WA 98001
Fax: 253-804-3116 (Attn: Shawn Campbell, City Clerk)
It is requested that the City of Auburn and the AVHS Board of Directors take these concerns into account and ensure that AVHS operates in alignment with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability. A thorough review of these issues is needed to ensure the continued success of AVHS and to protect the well-being of both the staff and the animals under its care.
Update 2/3/25 : Here is a link to the City of Auburn Council Meeting from 2/3/25.
https://www.youtube.com/live/0O1OOFPA3Tc?si=mrQAvdGLUc-LY1sm
Please take the time to listen to the perspectives shared by current and former staff at Auburn Valley Humane Society. This was a challenging and emotional day for those involved, and speaking out publicly was not an easy decision. The full board meeting is available, but if you start around the 13-minute mark, you'll hear the public comments. Staff members are asking for your support as they navigate these difficult circumstances
Thank you to the council for taking the time to listen and consider the voices of those directly impacted.
For further details on the reported allegations, please refer to the following articles:
Read more about the allegations:
Article 1: Auburn Examiner (https://auburnexaminer.com/allegations-of-harassment-and-mismanagement-emerge-at-auburn-valley-humane-society-under-current-ceo/
Article 2: KIRO 7 News (https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/auburn-animal-shelter-under-investigation/P6WOPDCRDVC4FMFQLEQUZYI32Q/?outputType=amp
Update 2/10/25: Ongoing Call for Transparency in Board Meetings
An important update regarding the ongoing call for transparency from the Board of Directors: Although a meeting time has been set, it has not been publicly disclosed to all AVHS staff or the public. This lack of transparency continues to raise concerns for those who seek to stay informed about decisions that impact them.
In the interest of fostering a more open and transparent environment, it is respectfully requested that the Board of Directors take the following steps:
- Public Access to Board Meetings: The meeting time, agendas, and minutes should be publicly disclosed to ensure that all stakeholders, including staff and the community, have access to the information and can participate in or stay informed about key decisions.
- Open Communication: Clear and accessible communication channels should be established for both the public and employees to share concerns, ask questions, and stay informed about decisions made during board meetings.
- Accountability and Engagement: The Board of Directors is encouraged to provide regular updates on the outcomes of meetings and engage with the public and employees in a meaningful way to address any concerns or questions raised.
How to Take Action:
Contact the Board Via Email/Call: Individuals are encouraged to reach out to board members to express interest in greater transparency and request that meeting details be publicly disclosed. While not all board members' contact information may be directly listed on the organization's website, some details can be found through the AVHS website, as the sponsors include certain board members who have links to their respective pages. For further inquiries, individuals can always call the shelter directly to inquire about the best way to reach out to board members. Additionally, a quick search online may provide additional helpful contact information
Engage with HR Via Call/Email: Contact Human Resources to inquire about the organization’s policy regarding board meetings and ask for more openness in the future.
Share the Petition: Share this petition with others who believe in the importance of transparency. Collective action can drive change and ensure that all stakeholders are informed.
Appreciation is extended to all who support the call for transparency, and it is hoped that the Board of Directors will consider these requests to ensure that all staff and the public are included in important organizational processes.
Below are the current Board Members from the AVHS Website:
Information
EXECUTIVE BOARD OFFICERS
Alexis Singletary, JD– Board Chairperson
Adriann Dooly– Vice Chairperson
Bob Briggs - Secretary
Chris Kim - Treasurer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Don Edwards, DVM
Rick Oliveira, CPA, Past Chairperson
Miles Haney
Khristina Swanson
Maryellen Elcock
Rachel Tobias
Sam Nokes
Andrea Niemeyer
Human Resources:
Lisa Moore - Director of Human Resources
HR@auburnvalleyhs.org / lmoore@auburnvalleyhs.org
Shelter Phone number 253.249.7849 ext.1
Update:Feb 18, 2025
Upcoming AVHS Board Meeting - February 20, 2025
Hello everyone,
Thank you for your patience, and apologies for the delay in sharing this update. I’m reaching out today to provide important details about the upcoming AVHS Board Meeting & New Co-CEO Position.
The AVHS Board of Directors has released details about the upcoming Board Meeting, which will be held on:
Date: Thursday, February 20th, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Best Western Mountain View Plus, 401 8th Street SW, Auburn, WA 98001
Important Details:
Online Attendance: A Teams online attendance option will be available, but the link has not yet been posted. It will be included in the meeting agenda, which is expected to be available on the AVHS website by 2/13/2025. The Agenda can be found on the AVHS Facebook page posted on 2/15/2025
Public Comment: Anyone wishing to comment in person during the Visitor portion of the meeting must submit their name and city of residence by 5 PM on Wednesday, 2/19/2025 to info@auburnvalleyhs.org.
Written Comments: Those unable to attend in person may submit written comments by 5 PM on 2/19/2025 to info@auburnvalleyhs.org
Discrepancies: There are some discrepancies regarding the meeting time and online link on the website and social media; at the moment, no link is available.
Call to Action: Template for Public Comments
If you wish to submit a comment during the Visitor portion of the meeting, feel free to use the following template as a base and edit it to reflect your concerns:
Subject: Public Comment for AVHS Board Meeting on February 20, 2025
Dear AVHS Board of Directors,
I am writing to express concerns about the leadership at AVHS.
CEO Phillip Morgan’s Leadership: I urge the Board to remove CEO Phillip Morgan and replace him with leadership committed to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of staff and animals.
Qualifications for New CEO Position: The new CEO role lacks qualifications in veterinary medicine and animal services, which is concerning given the role’s responsibilities. I request that the Board ensure the selected candidate has the appropriate qualifications.
Public Access to Board Meetings: I also encourage the Board to increase transparency and make board meetings more accessible to the public.
I respectfully request that the AVHS Board of Directors take these concerns into consideration, and act in the best interests of the staff, the animals, and the community.
Thank you for your time and attention to these matters.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your City of Residence]
Concerns Regarding the New CEO Position:
In addition to the Board Meeting, there is a significant development regarding the new CEO of Operations & Animal Services position at AVHS that warrants attention.
For more information about the position and to view the job posting, you can follow the link here: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –
Auburn Valley Humane Society. This link will take you to current listings and you will need to select Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –
Auburn Valley Humane Society to view the position and its details.
Not a Replacement for CEO Phil Morgan: The newly created CEO of Operations & Animal Services position is not intended to replace current CEO (Of Strategic Planning and Business Development) 3Phil Morgan. Instead, it creates a co-CEO model, where Phil Morgan will continue overseeing business development and planning, while the new CEO will focus exclusively on the daily operations of specific areas. The new role will manage only the NW Spay/Neuter Clinic (Tacoma) and the AVHS Shelter (Auburn). Meanwhile, Phil Morgan will continue to oversee two locations—the Cat Cafe and AVHS Thrift Store will operate independently and are not under the operations CEO's management.
Lack of Qualifications for the New Position: This new role will involve overseeing operations, staff management, budgets, and day-to-day activities for two locations. There is no requirement for the new CEO to have any veterinary or animal services experience. This is concerning, as the person filling this role would be in charge of running two locations with significant responsibilities, including animal care and managing staff. Given that the position lacks qualifications in veterinary medicine or animal services, there is a real risk that the new CEO may not be properly equipped to handle these complex responsibilities.
Failure to Address Leadership Issues: Ultimately, the creation of a new position does not address the root cause of the problem: the ongoing leadership challenges under CEO Phil Morgan. This move seems more like a temporary fix rather than a genuine effort to make real, meaningful changes. The board continues to avoid confronting the serious concerns raised about Morgan’s leadership, which have become a recurring issue, not just at AVHS, but in other organizations as well. By adding a new position without tackling the core problems, the board misses an opportunity to make substantive changes and take decisive action in the best interest of the staff, animals, and community.
Opportunity for Real Change: This is a critical moment for the AVHS Board of Directors to step up and demonstrate leadership. Instead of making temporary fixes, this is an opportunity for the board to make meaningful changes and lead by example. The board can demonstrate its commitment to excellence in animal welfare by ensuring that the organization’s leadership is aligned with its mission statement and values. AVHS should set a model of advancement in animal welfare, and that starts with holding leadership accountable and making bold decisions that prioritize the well-being of animals, staff, and the community.
Next Steps:
Submit your comment: Email your public comment (whether written or in-person) to info@auburnvalleyhs.org by 5 PM on 2/19/2025.
Attend the meeting: If possible, attend the meeting on February 20th in person or via the online Teams link once it's available.
Spread the word: Share this update with others who care about the future of AVHS and the well-being of the staff and animals under its care.
Our voices matter, and your continued support is crucial as we push for meaningful change at AVHS. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring that the animals and staff are treated with the respect and care they deserve. Thank you for standing up!
New Position Details via AVHS Website
"Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Operations & Animal Services –
Auburn Valley Humane Society
Location: Auburn, WA (Regular travel to Tacoma, WA required)
Reports to: Board of Directors
About Auburn Valley Humane Society
Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) is dedicated to providing compassionate care, shelter, and advocacy for animals in need. AVHS operates a Shelter in Auburn, WA and a Spay/Neuter Clinic in Tacoma, WA, as well as a Cat Café and Thrift Store. Through its programs and services, AVHS works to create a humane and responsible environment for pets and people alike.
Position Overview
AVHS is seeking a hands-on Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Operations and Animal Services to provide strong leadership and operational oversight for the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic. Working directly with the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development and reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for stabilizing, optimizing, and improving these core programs following a period of organizational transition.
This position requires regular travel between the Auburn Shelter and the Tacoma Spay/Neuter Clinic, ensuring consistent leadership, staff support, and operational efficiency across both locations. Additionally, the CEO may serve as backup for the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development as needed, stepping in to support executive-level responsibilities.
The ideal candidate is a proven leader in animal welfare, veterinary services, or nonprofit management who thrives in culture transformation, operational efficiency, and team development. A Licensed Veterinary Professional is preferred but not required.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Culture TransformationEstablish and maintain a motivated, well-trained, and reliable team in the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic.
Lead a culture shift that fosters collaboration, accountability, and mission alignment.
Mentor and develop Shelter and Clinic Managers, ensuring strong leadership at every level.
Provide stability and direction to staff and volunteers during a period of organizational transition.
Serve as backup for the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development when needed, handling key leadership responsibilities and decision-making.
Operational & Financial OversightAnalyze and optimize Shelter and Clinic performance to meet financial and operational goals.
Develop and implement strategies to maximize clinic revenue and efficiency while ensuring high-quality animal care.
Ensure safe, effective, and compassionate daily operations in both the Shelter and Spay/Neuter Clinic.
Prepare and present regular operational reports to the Board of Directors.
Strategic Growth & Community EngagementBuild and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including veterinary partners, donors, and the broader community.
Support fundraising and grant-writing efforts to secure resources for continued growth.
Work closely with volunteer coordination to enhance volunteer engagement in the Shelter and Clinic.
Scope of Role
The CEO of Operations and Animal Services will, in conjunction with the CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development, oversee only the daily operations of the Spay/Neuter Clinic (Tacoma) and the Shelter (Auburn). The Cat Café and Thrift Store operate independently and are not under the operations CEO’s management.
Travel & Executive Support Requirements
This role requires regular travel between Auburn (Shelter) and Tacoma (Spay/Neuter Clinic) to provide on-site leadership, staff support, and operational oversight.
The CEO must be willing and able to step in as CEO of Strategic Planning and Business Development when needed, ensuring continuity in leadership.
Reliable transportation is required.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Demonstrated leadership experience in animal welfare, veterinary services, nonprofit management, or related fields.
Strong change management and crisis leadership skills, with the ability to stabilize and strengthen an evolving organization.
Experience in budget management, operations analysis, and performance optimization.
Proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams in a fast-paced environment.
Passion for animal welfare and deep commitment to AVHS’s mission.
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Licensed Veterinary Professional preferred but not required."
583
Supporter Voices
Share this petition
Petition created on January 30, 2025