OUR TEAM

Richelle Fair

Executive Director

Hello, my name is Richelle Fair, and I am honored to serve as the Executive Director of the Highland Humane Society. My journey with this organization began long before I officially joined the team as Shelter Manager in May 2022. In fact, my love for helping shelter animals was sparked right here at the Highland Humane Society.

Back in 2011, as a volunteer, I saw firsthand the incredible impact the shelter has on animals and the community. Though the building remains the same, the organization has evolved tremendously since those early days. Over the years, I have been deeply involved with the shelter, serving as a volunteer and even as a board member during two separate terms.

In 2013, I stepped away to broaden my knowledge and experience, spending nine years working with other local shelters and dedicating time to a foster-based rescue. During this time, I also became a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant, specializing in aggressive behaviors. Achieving certifications such as Family Dog Mediator (FDM) and an Aggression in Dogs Certificate required years of education and hands-on work. This expertise, combined with my continued training each year, has been invaluable in my role as Executive Director.

With 14 years of experience in shelter and rescue work, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that change is the only constant. Every shelter, community, and situation is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What works in one place may not work in another, and staying adaptable is key.

Since returning to the Highland Humane Society, I’ve been amazed at how far we’ve come in such a short time. I’m excited about what the future holds as we continue to grow and expand programs that support our community and its animals.

None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our community. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of animals in need.

Bryana Williamson

Humane Agent

As a dedicated Humane Agent, I am committed to advocating for the welfare of animals and ensuring they are treated with the compassion and respect they deserve. My work involves investigating reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and abuse, while ensuring that legal and ethical standards are upheld. I conduct thorough inspections, gather evidence, and collaborate closely with law enforcement and local authorities to enforce animal protection laws. With a deep passion for animal welfare, I am driven by the belief that every creature deserves to live free from harm. I approach each case with empathy and a strong sense of justice, working tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable animals. My goal is not only to investigate and prevent cruelty, but also to raise awareness and educate the public on the importance of humane treatment for all living beings. In addition to my professional role, I am a mother of three very active daughters in motable schools from elementary to high school. We have a small hobby farm with chickens and rabbits. I have a love of large breed dogs and black cats. My busy personal life reminds me daily of the importance of care, protection, and love—values that I carry into my work as a Humane Agent. These experiences keep me grounded and focused on making a difference, both for animals and for the people in my community. Through my work and my life, I strive to create a community where animals can thrive in safe, loving environments, and where people understand their responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves.

Celena Carter

Lead Feline Animal Care Technician

I began as a volunteer at the Humane Society in December 2020, became a kennel technician in January 2021, and have since advanced to Lead Feline Animal Care Technician as of 2023. Affectionately known as the 'cat lady,' I have a menagerie at home including cats, dogs, fish, a rabbit, and frequently foster kittens.

My journey into animal care started after various management roles post-high school. I felt a strong calling to animal welfare and joined the Humane Society as a volunteer, which led to my current position. My passion for animal care has grown, and I'm planning to become a veterinary technician to further contribute to the shelter.

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the cats I care for find happy homes. Currently, my favorite is Margo, a spirited kitten I've nurtured from a frail state to a lively, quirky companion.

My dream for the shelter is to grow our foster and volunteer network, emphasizing that anyone can make a significant impact. I also hope for the shelter's continued success and longevity, reflecting our dedication to the animals and the community.

Jessica Long

Animal Care Technician

Jessica Long, who joined our team in October 2023, has a diverse array of pets, including 7 dogs, 4 cats, a foster kitten, a pig, 25 chickens, 4 ducks, a rabbit, 2 horses, and a mini horse. Previously in medical and customer service, Jessica hadn't worked with animals professionally but was drawn to the role to help animals find loving homes.

Her favorite moments at the shelter are puppy play dates.

Jessica hopes to see the shelter expand its capacity to aid more animals in the community. We're delighted to have her on board and appreciate her contribution!

Pebbles

Office Cat

Pebbles, a resident cat at our shelter, arrived in January from an overwhelming situation involving numerous unspayed and unneutered cats. She urgently needed an emergency spay, which was complicated and unique. After her surgery, Pebbles was despondent until a young, separated kitten was placed nearby. Her maternal instincts kicked in, and she nurtured and comforted him, marking the start of her role as a surrogate mother to various kittens.

Pebbles thrives in the shelter, adopting kittens needing maternal care and teaching older ones social skills. Her favorite activities include exploring our catio and playing on climbing equipment. She jokingly says she has several 'pet humans' who attend to her needs.

Although this is her first job at an animal shelter, Pebbles views herself as an experienced kitten foster. She loves her role, paid in her favorite wet food. Pebbles chose to stay with us to help save kittens, much like she was given a second chance.

Her favorite shelter companions are Spice, and sisters Caroline and Elena, whom she has raised. Pebbles hopes for their adoption into loving homes, even though she'll miss them.

Pebbles dreams of more animals like her in the shelter, fostering and caring for needy babies. She encourages anyone considering fostering to take the leap, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment it brings.

Teresa Trimm

Board of Directors - President

Hi I'm Teresa Trimm, lifetime resident of Hillsboro Ohio and long time supporter of the Highland Humane Society. I am a US Air Force Veteran with several years of experience in Engineering and IT. In September 2019 I began my role with the Highland Humane Society as a foster for a litter of six newborn orphaned kittens. In April of 2023 I was asked to join the Board of Directors and hope to continue working with them as a foster and a member of the fundraising committee.

Pamela Eccard

Board of Directors - Secretary

Hello my name is Pamela Eccard, I have served as the Highland Humane Society’s Board Secretary since May of 2022. I have over a decade of professional experience in finance and business management. As a lifelong resident of Highland County, I am proud to be part of an organization that supports animals in need, fueling my personal passion for helping animals as a proud (many) pet owner myself. I hope to continue my role for years to come and am excited to see all the PAWsitive changes we can make in the lives of animals who need us to be their voice.

Sarah Roe

Board of Directors - Treasurer

My name is Sarah Roe. I have served on the Humane Society Board of Directors since March of 2021. Prior to joining the Board of Directors, I was a volunteer with my daughter Annabelle, who from a young age, decided she wanted to be a vet when she grows up. I fell in love with the mission and the dedication the Humane Society has to the community and decided to dedicate my time as a volunteer in a more formal role. As Treasurer, I am dedicated to managing the Humane Society finances so that the organization may continue to serve Highland County for many years to come. I offer professional experience in Accounting as well as Marketing. I am a two time adopter, our Roxie girl who passed in 2023, and our most recent adoption was Rocky. He is our three-legged Pyranese boxer mix. I look forward to serving for many more years to come.

Margo Stein

Board of Directors - General Member

My name is Margo Stein. I have lived in Hillsboro since 2017 and I'm originally from Cincinnati. My past work experience is in Healthcare and Customer Service. I am a true animal lover of all kinds, and currently have four dogs, two of which were adopted from the Humane Society. As a general member of the board, I am looking forward to participating in fundraising and helping the needy animals find their furever homes.

Sydney Hall

Board of Directors - General Member

Hello, my name is Sydney Hall. I've been passionate about animal advocacy from the day I was born. From a very young age, my goal has been to run my own animal rescue. In July 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to become a foster/volunteer with the Highland Humane Society, and since then, I’ve dedicated as much time as possible to supporting animals in need. While I’m still working towards that eventual goal, fostering and volunteering has been a valuable step in gaining the experience I'll need. When the position of board member was offered, I gave an immediate 'yes'! My mission is to continue working with the amazing staff to be a voice for these animals, ensuring they live happy, healthy, long lives.