I was adopted by my first kitty when I was a sophomore in college.  Before then, I thought I was a dog person.  Now, I’m both—without a doubt.  I currently serve PAWS as a volunteer foster mom, fundraiser, animal medical advisor, data entry manager, editor, board president, and whatever else we need.

My professional career began in financial services management and systems analysis for both national and international banking. I then moved on to information management consulting, instructional design, and documentation and training. My experience spans clients in a variety of industries including high tech, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, financial services, and both state and federal governments. 

As a volunteer, I’ve worked with non-profit organizations in the Boston area since I moved here in 1975.  I served as a director, secretary, treasurer, and president of the Brown University Alumni Club of Boston until 2001.  In 1999, I became involved in the animal welfare movement as a volunteer foster home for PAWS.  I was elected to the PAWS Board in 2000 and have served as the President since March 2002.

In addition, I served as an advisory council member, board member and treasurer of the New England Federation of Humane Societies (2004-2017), working with a wide variety of animal welfare leaders to provide training and networking opportunities to volunteers and professionals throughout the Northeast. I have also been a long-time volunteer and member of the Massachusetts Animal Coalition.

My experience with PAWS and the many animals who need our care, led me to begin researching holistic medical alternatives to help provide further comfort to and improve the health of our foster pets when modern medical solutions are not enough.  I have been certified as a Reiki master as well as an essential oils consultant and am currently continuing my studies with Dr. Janet Roark, The Essential Oil Vet, as well as Dr. Katie Woodley, The Natural Pet Doctor.

My PAWS colleagues honored me with an appreciation award as their “fur-less” leader.  However, I can assure you, I am anything but “fur-less.”  At home, my husband, Chuck Willand, and I have shared our lives (so far) with two adopted dogs, more than a few former PAWS cats, and an ever-changing population of short- and long-term foster cats, dogs and one guinea pig!