Alexandria, Virginia – Four AWLA team members (Chief Executive Officer Stella Hanly, Chief Operating Officer and Chief of Animal Services Tony Rankin, Director of Community Support Joanna Fortin and Manager of Community Support Sean Furmage) recently earned their Certified Animal Welfare Administrator credentials through The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, an independent agency whose mission is to help develop strong leaders and promote standards of practice in the animal welfare profession. Hanly, Rankin, Fortin and Furmage are now four of several hundred individuals worldwide to hold this prestigious designation, the only leadership credential in animal welfare.
The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement administers the Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) program which distinguishes top-level executives and managers working in both nonprofit and municipal animal welfare agencies. In addition to meeting strict eligibility requirements for leadership and management in the animal welfare field, Hanly, Rankin, Fortin and Furmage needed to pass a rigorous exam to earn their CAWA designation.
The CAWA exam covers best practices in animal welfare with questions reviewing leadership, human resources, finance, fundraising, marketing, administration, and animal care. Obtaining their CAWA status validates all of their work in the animal welfare field and illustrates their competency to contribute to broader animal welfare conversations as they pertain to their community and across the country.
Jim Tedford, The Association’s CEO and a CAWA, noted, “Certified Animal Welfare Administrators have demonstrated that they hold specialized qualifications and a commitment to high standards and ethical practices in our industry. We respect their dedication to their own professional development and their pursuit of leadership excellence.”
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About the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA) has been a beacon of hope for animals and the people who love them. Through adoptions, spay and neuter assistance, education, community service and outreach, the AWLA plays a key role in promoting responsible pet care across Northern Virginia. Additionally, the AWLA works with the City of Alexandria to provide animal care, control, protection and operates the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, an open-admission animal sheltering facility.
The AWLA is able to support pet families and at-risk animals thanks to the kindness of generous donors. You can learn more about the AWLA and find ways to support Alexandria’s animals at www.AlexandriaAnimals.org/Support-Us.
About The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement
Since 1970, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement has been leading the conversation among animal welfare leaders. As the only membership organization dedicated exclusively to animal welfare, care, and control professionals, The Association develops strong leaders, promotes standards of practice, and cultivates collaboration to advance the animal welfare profession with a united voice. For more information, please visit theaawa.org.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Erin Shackelford
Senior Manager of Communications and Event Marketing
703-746-5656
eshackelford@AlexandriaAnimals.org