ACS Names New President
THE ANTI-CRUELTY SOCIETY WELCOMES NEW PRESIDENT AUG. 4
Dr. Robyn Barbiers to Help Save Lives, Continue Forward Movement in the Animal Welfare World and Humane Education
CHICAGO, Ill. (June 27, 2008) – The Anti-Cruelty Society (ACS) of Chicago announced today that it has hired a new President, effective August 4. Dr. Robyn Barbiers, 51, comes to The Anti-Cruelty Society with more than 26 years experience in veterinary care, curating and leadership/management at zoos and veterinary clinics across the country. Her last 14 years were spent at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago.
Dr. Barbiers research and applications, regarding animal health and safety, have been included in 30 published medical pieces and books.
“Dr. Barbiers passion and leadership in the animal welfare arena is a great alignment with The Anti-Cruelty Society’s mission and history,” said Martin Gross, Chairman of the Board of Directors of The Anti-Cruelty Society. “Her extensive background in veterinary care and administration will help The Anti-Cruelty Society take on new challenges facing the animal welfare world and humane education, while continuing to save lives everyday.”
Dr. Barbiers joins The Anti-Cruelty Society after serving at Lincoln Park Zoo managing the occupation and opening of the $25 million Regenstein Center for African Apes and $12 million Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo, plus leadership, management and administration of the zoo’s Collections and Education departments. Previously, she served as general curator for the Lincoln Park Zoo and director of veterinary services. Dr. Barbiers also served in veterinary roles at zoos in Detroit and Seattle. She is a licensed veterinarian, received her B.S. and D.V.M from Michigan State. Her career in emergency veterinary clinics began in Canton, Ohio and Cincinnati, Ohio.
Dr. Barbiers chairs the editorial board of the Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, where she has served as associate editor; is a children’s book consultant and a past member of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians’ Ethics Committee, among countless other organizations.
“I am honored to take on the role as president of The Anti-Cruelty Society, an incredible Chicago institution soon to celebrate 110 years of service,” said Dr. Barbiers. “The animal welfare world faces so many challenges, and The Anti-Cruelty Society has a record of leadership and results. My new role in The Anti-Cruelty Society’s continued plans for growth and expanded services is very exciting and I look forward to the opportunity to save lives everyday “
Dr. Barbiers has a pet cat, named Violet, and resides in Chicago.
Dr. Barbiers will replace The Anti-Cruelty Society’s Acting President, David Dinger, beginning August 4, 2008. Dinger, Vice President of Operations, stepped into the temporary dual role in January when Dr. Gene Mueller resigned as president, and will soon be able to return to holding one position (VP/Operations) at the shelter, focusing 100% on operations.
About The Anti-Cruelty Society
Since 1899, The Anti-Cruelty Society (ACS) has provided an open door for animals in need. One of the largest open-door humane societies in the country, ACS provides services for 25,000 animals each year. Last year, The ACS adopted over 5,700 dogs, cats, kittens and puppies, and spayed/neutered over 13,000 cats and dogs. The Society’s mission to prevent cruelty to animals and advance humane education is forwarded through services which include: adoption, charity veterinary clinic, spay/neuter clinic, rehabilitation and treatment of homeless animals, cruelty investigation and rescue, dog training, free behavior hotline and pet visitation programs.