OUR TEAM

Richelle Fair

Executive Director

Richelle Fair, the shelter’s Executive Director since May 2022, brings 12 years of experience in animal rescue and sheltering. Passionate about helping homeless animals, she has six adopted dogs of various breeds and ages and has been fostering dogs, particularly those less likely to be chosen, for the same duration.

Her career as a dog trainer and behavior consultant began a decade ago at the Highland Humane Society, starting as a volunteer. Richelle's favorite aspect of her role is finding suitable homes for animals and introducing community programs for animal care.

Since returning to Highland Humane Society, Richelle has been inspired by the community's support for animals. She envisions the society expanding its impact to assist not just the local county but neighboring regions too.

Bryana Williamson

Humane Agent

Bryanna Williamson, joined our team on August 24, 2023, has a lifelong passion for animals. With 3 dogs, including 2 mastiffs and a pit mix, and a small farm with rabbits and various chickens, her love for animals runs deep. Her experience spans over a decade in 4H club and FFA chapter activities, mentored by her aunt Sylvia.

Bryanna's journey to the shelter began with a fortuitous Facebook ad, aligning with her desire to serve her community through animal work. Her favorite part of the job is interacting with all the animals, providing them with quality time and a clean environment, and working alongside a supportive and caring staff.

In December 2023, Bryana completed the required training coures to fill the positon of Humane Agent.

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.

Randall Williams

Animal Care Technician

Randall Williams, has a deep history with the Humane Society, previously serving as Shelter Manager and Highland County Dog Warden. Returning to us in October 2023, Randall currently cares for 2 dogs and 4 cats.

Passionate about animal advocacy, Randall is committed to providing love and compassion to every animal encountered, fully supporting our mission. Working at the Shelter is rewarding for many reasons: being part of an animal's journey, the camaraderie with like-minded colleagues who form a supportive 'family', and the personal growth opportunities in the ever-evolving field of animal care.

The vision for the shelter's future is continuous learning and growth, always striving to do better for 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.