Talbot Humane has welcomed Brian P. Metcalf as its new Executive Director. Together with a recent strategic plan focusing on taking the organization to the next level, the appointment signals a commitment by the Board of Directors to excellence in quality of animal care and community service.

Crossing the country to join Talbot Humane, Metcalf previously was Executive Director of the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society, serving Douglas and Chelan counties in the state of Washington. “I can’t tell you how excited I am to have the opportunity to contribute to such a wonderful organization and to live in a community so entrenched in history, tradition, warmth and beauty,” he said.

Search Committee Chairman, Wendy Pagenstecher, received 52 applications for the position. “Brian topped our list,” she noted. “We look forward to partnering with Brian’s creativity and passion as he leads Talbot Humane forward in its mission.”

That mission includes a commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for unwanted companion animals and reducing their population through spay/neuter programs and community education; placement of all adoptable animals into good homes; and protection of all animals from cruelty and neglect. For the board, that means creating no less than the best operational shelter on the Delmarva peninsula.

Metcalf described Talbot Humane’s ultimate goal as finding loving homes and completely eliminating euthanasia for Talbot County’s adoptable pets. He intends to work toward this ideal by creating a culture of team and family with every citizen of Talbot County, inviting participation through volunteerism, adoption of pets and financial support.

“Our challenges are not ours alone,” he emphasized, “but rather, our community’s to share, address and overcome.”

Board President Laura Carney looks forward to working with Metcalf to meet those challenges. “Brian’s unique blend of professionalism, dedication, enthusiasm and compassion is exactly what we were looking for,” she said. “With 25 years of experience in nonprofit animal welfare and corporate business, his qualifications will make him a true asset to Talbot Humane.”

As Executive Directory, Metcalf will work with both board and staff to promote standards of excellence on the organization and operations levels. “Our compassionate staff, visionary board, dedicated volunteers and I will be making a commitment to a philosophy of mutual accountability,” he said, “to one another and to the critters.”

Shelter Coordinator Patty Crankshaw-Quimby appreciates the experience Metcalf brings to Talbot Humane. “Brian has a history of compassion for the animals as well as for staff, volunteers and community he has served, and will be a welcome addition to our shelter,” she said. “We look forward to the growth of our programs under his leadership.”

For more information, to make a contribution, or to volunteer, call Talbot Humane at 410-822-0107 or visit www.talbothumane.org.