The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s Marketing and Development Teams Honored With WSVMA Award
The Washington State Veterinary Medical Association (WSVMA) is the official organization for veterinarians in Washington, supporting the profession through legislative advocacy, business programs, continuing education, and student development.
Each year, the WSVMA recognizes significant contributions to veterinary medicine in Washington state with seven awards. These are given through a nomination and committee voting process to veterinarians, allied industries, and professionals who advance animal welfare. The Humane Animal Welfare Award, established in 2001, is one such honor.
In 2024, the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s Marketing and Development teams were honored with the Humane Animal Welfare Award for their contributions to the veterinary profession. This team is nationally recognized for identifying areas of need within the shelter, promoting animal stories, developing innovative fundraising methods, and engaging the public in the shelter’s mission.
Dr. Eddie Haig, president of the Washington State Veterinary Medical Association (WSVMA), presents the 2024 Humane Animal Welfare Award to Sarah Jane Hoppe, capital campaign manager, and Lauren Green, director of marketing and communications, at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County.
The shelter takes in nearly 10,000 animals annually as an open-admission shelter, serving seven municipalities. The Marketing and Development teams have been instrumental in promoting animals with special needs placements, marketing adoption specials, and hosting events that engage community stakeholders and partners.
“I’ve worked with this team for nearly two years and have been impressed by their use of cutting-edge technology and their thoughtful approach to marketing in the animal welfare space,” shared Dr. Jennifer Bennett, Chief Veterinary Officer at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County and former WSVMA president. “Over the last six years, they’ve more than doubled charitable giving and donor engagement while highlighting advanced veterinary techniques, such as monoclonal Parvo antibody treatment, ultraviolet light therapy, and innovative surgeries.”
The Marketing and Development teams continue to elevate the shelter’s efforts, improving the lives of animals and inspiring community action. We’re proud of the teams’ forward-thinking approach, which is making a lasting impact on the organization, the pets we care for, and the community we serve.
Interested in joining the shelter’s industry-leading team? Check out our open positions!
