Tacoma Humane Names Dr. Chelsea Farnsworth as Executive Director

The Board of Directors of the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Chelsea Farnsworth, DVM, MBA, as the organization’s incoming Executive Director, effective Monday, September 21.

Dr. Farnsworth brings a combination of clinical veterinary training and multi-site executive leadership, having previously overseen medical and operational strategy across 26 veterinary hospitals in four states.

A Strong Foundation in Veterinary Medicine & Operations

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Dr. Farnsworth earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from Washington State University in Pullman. She completed surgical training in equine surgery and sports medicine before earning her Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Dr. Farnsworth transitioned into small animal medical leadership, serving as Medical Director at Mars Veterinary Health (Banfield) and later as Regional Medical and Operations Director at Mission Pet Health. Throughout her executive career, she has maintained her hands-on connection to clinical care by continuing to perform relief veterinary work

“High-quality animal care begins with supporting the people on the front lines,” said Dr. Chelsea Farnsworth. “My core mission has always been caring for the people who care for the pets. I am honored to join the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County to build a strong internal foundation of trust, empowerment, and clear, kind accountability, so our team feels fully supported in serving every animal that comes through our doors.”

Servant Leadership & Community Commitment

Dr. Farnsworth’s leadership philosophy centers on servant leadership, open communication, and active listening. Embracing a mindset of “be curious, not judgmental,” her initial focus will be engaging directly with staff, volunteers, and community stakeholders through department listening sessions.

Dr. Farnsworth emphasizes the importance of preserving the vital community safety net Tacoma Humane provides while maintaining collaborative, resource-sharing ties with regional shelter partners.

“Dr. Farnsworth brings an exceptional blend of clinical expertise, operational discipline, and deep empathy,” stated the Board of Directors. “Her commitment to empowering staff, fostering internal stability, and upholding our mission makes her uniquely qualified to lead our shelter into its next chapter.”

Dr. Farnsworth will be relocating locally to downtown Tacoma as she assumes her executive duties on September 21.

Fast Facts: Dr. Chelsea Farnsworth, DVM, MBA

• Education: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (Washington State University, Pullman); Master of Business Administration.
• Executive Experience: Former Vice President of Operations at Mission Veterinary Partners (led 26 hospitals across four states) and Medical Director at Mars Pet Health (Banfield).
• Leadership Core: Servant leadership, staff empowerment, clear and kind accountability, and prioritizing internal trust.
• Start Date: Monday, September 21
• Tacoma Humane’s mission: Partnering with our community, we champion the welfare of animals and promote positive relationships between pets and people.