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February 19, 2021Animal Protective Foundation Names New Executive Director
The Animal Protective Foundation (APF) recently hired an accomplished animal welfare professional with more than 20 years of experience leading shelters and clinics across the country as its new executive director.
Austin Gates joined the APF team on January 4, having most recently served as executive director of the Humane Society of Sedona, AZ for three years.
“We are fortunate and excited to have attracted such an experienced executive director as Austin as we move forward in executing our new 2020-25 strategic plan and expanding our services for the benefit of pets and their owners,” said Board President Otto Zamek. “Austin is accomplished, enthusiastic, forward-looking and an ideal fit for our organization as we build new programs and engage in new and exciting ways with pet owners in our community.”
While in Sedona, Ms. Gates led her team in the development of a number of innovative programs that resulted in a 99% live release rate for the Humane Society, along with a 50% increase in return-to-owner rates, a 40% increase in adoptions and a decrease in the average length of stay for sheltered pets. Prior to Sedona, Ms. Gates served in leadership roles with the San Diego Humane Society, and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
“I’m thrilled to be joining a team and a community that cares so much about animals,” Ms. Gates said. “The APF is undoubtedly in line with the best shelters in the country and I look forward to working with our incredible staff, donors and community partners to expand our amazing programs.”
The APF is a private, nonprofit humane society providing pet sheltering, healthcare and education and support services to pet owners and their families in Schenectady County and the greater Capital Region from its Glenville headquarters. Having opened in 1931, the organization is celebrating their 90th year of operation.
