I am Diane Robinson, Executive Director of Lake Oconee Humane Society. I bring over 20 years of animal welfare experience, and I am excited to continue to help expand and grow LOHS and our partnership with the residents of the lake country. Originally from Pennsylvania, I am a graduate of Penn State University. I received a Masters in Education and a teaching certificate from the University of Northern Colorado. My transition into animal welfare began in Colorado as a search and rescue team member, where my skills as a wilderness first responder and climber were invaluable. I moved full-time into animal welfare as the training manager for the American Humane Association / Red Star animal emergency services, focusing on animal disaster response. My journey continued to Mississippi, where I served as the Director of Jackson County’s animal shelter. There, I oversaw daily operations and turned around the county shelter with an annual intake of 5,000 cats, dogs, horses, and assorted farm and small animals. I then took on the role of Director of Operations at the Atlanta Humane Society – Mansell campus, a large limited admissions shelter (similar to LOHS). During my tenure, I increased the lives saved per year by 43%. Additionally, I assisted in the development of a state disaster plan and led the response team to establish disaster shelters during Hurricane Irma at the request of the State of Georgia. Subsequently, I became the Program Manager for Disaster Response at the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). In this role, I drove the development and implementation of the HSUS disaster program, with a focus on leading the team of responders assisting communities impacted by natural disasters. I am incredibly excited and proud to be part of the Lake Oconee Humane Society. Working alongside passionate individuals who dedicate endless hours and love for the animals each and every day is truly inspiring. Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of our furry friends!