Rachel DK Finney, CEO of Columbus Humane, is stepping down after 16 years at the helm, the animal welfare nonprofit’s board of trustees announced Wednesday.
“When I joined Columbus Humane in 2008, the organization was filled with so much potential,” Finney said in a prepared news release from the organization. “There is something truly fascinating about a group of dedicated people coming together to save and change lives for the better. I get chills when I think of what we have done together to help animals and people. It really works, and we’ve made a significant difference–and there’s still room for more!”
In a phone interview with The Dispatch, Finney said he sees his resignation as a “graduation” for him and Columbus Humane. Finney said that since he took over the animal welfare organization in 2008, they have done everything they set out to do.
Now, Finney said, it’s time for “new leadership with a new vision” to come in and continue to help the agency grow and see areas of improvement.
Finney’s resignation is effective on or before June 30, 2024. Finney told The Dispatch that he plans to stay in Columbus, but is not yet sure what he will do next.
The Columbus Humane Board of Trustees has begun a national search for his replacement.
“Rachel’s passion for the welfare of our community’s animals and residents, combined with her visionary leadership, has left an extraordinary impact on Columbus Humane and central Ohio,” said Angie Tabor, president of the Columbus Humane Board. of Trustees, in the news release.
“The organization expresses its sincere appreciation for his tireless efforts. We will honor and continue his legacy by searching for the next CEO, who will embody our mission of fighting animal cruelty, helping animals in need and advocating for their welfare.”
Finney said that while he will miss everything about Columbus Humane, what will stick with him the most is watching people have real interactions with each other and with animals, even they are potential pet parents who want to adopt or watch volunteers and staff interact with people and pets.
A career of achievements
Under Finney’s leadership, Columbus Humane has launched several major initiatives, projects and expansions that have improved the lives of both the animals under their care and people seeking pet adoption.
During his tenure, Finney and Columbus Humane:
- Oversaw the completion of five major building projects and improvements to the shelter facilities in Hilliard.
- With $6 million in capital, the first-of-its-kind Essential Care Center was established, providing substantial assistance in veterinary care for underserved communities, pet food, and veterinary worker training.
- Created the Safe Haven for Pets Program, which provides animal care and housing for those experiencing domestic violence.
- Worked with the Workforce Development Board of Central Ohio and Jewish Family Services to create a new workforce development program. Columbus Humane also recently celebrated a 16-year partnership with the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. All fourth-year veterinary students at OSU complete a shelter medicine rotation at Columbus Humane, which has provided medical assistance to more than 75,000 pets.
Founded in 1883, Columbus Humane serves central Ohio through a variety of programs for both animals and people. The nonprofit animal cruelty investigation unit responds to an average of 6,000 investigations each year.
As an adoption center, Columbus Humane cares for an average of over 250 animals daily and facilitates an average of 3,000 adoptions annually. The organization celebrated its 140th anniversary on December 7, 2023.
@ShahidMeighan
