Our People
We are an organization of animal behavior professionals and enthusiasts from across the globe who work together to raise the standards of animal welfare and training standards. We love animals, but our greatest strength is our people: our staff; our volunteers; our board; our chapter liaisons; our experts across a wide variety of specialties and species; our members, whether experienced and credentialed or new to animal behavior studies. All of us have made a strong commitment to providing our clients with the most ethical approach and evidence-supported expertise. We are continually learning, growing, reassessing, questioning, and connecting with one another in our pursuit of honing our knowledge and practical skills. Thank you to all our members for sharing your strengths - together we are the IAABC, and with your help we can change the world.
Our Team
We have an amazing, dedicated team of staff members who are passionate professionals committed to the IAABC mission. Each team member brings a wealth of expertise and dedication, playing a vital role in both the daily operations and the long-term success of our organization. Their knowledge and commitment drive our initiatives, support our members, and ensure that we continue to raise the standards of animal behavior consulting worldwide.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please reach out to us via email. We welcome your input and are happy to address any inquiries you may have.
Image: Ale Lopez Irala
Ale Lopez Irala
Latin America
Image: Alli Holte
Alli Holte
Volunteers
Image: Christi Kirby-Baron
Christi Kirby-Baron
Membership
Image: Dot Baisly
Dot Baisly
Executive Director
Image: Dr Joanie Forry
Dr Joanie Forry
Ethics
Image: Melinda Lee
Melinda Lee
Strategy
Image: Nikki Finn Loudenslager
Nikki Finn Loudenslager
Credentialing
Image: Nikki Nordick
Nikki Nordick
Communications
Image: Pierinna Tenchio
Pierinna Tenchio
Language
Image: Robin Horemans
Robin Horemans
Operations
Board of Directors
This is an elected position, with each seat on the Board of Directors serving a two-year term. Members of the IAABC vote to elect board members, with elections held annually every June. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns that you would like to share with our Board of Directors, we encourage you to reach out to us via email info@iaabc.org. We welcome your input and are happy to address any inquiries you may have.
Image: Barb Deg
Barb Deg
President
Image: Beth Brown
Beth Brown
Vice President
Image: Abby Surrette
Abby Surrette
Treasurer
Image: Alice Chau
Alice Chau
Director
Image: Ashley Conlin
Ashley Conlin
Director
Image: Emily Lewis
Emily Lewis
Director
Image: Fina Itzel Garcia-Blanco
Fina Itzel Garcia-Blanco
Director
Image: Hannah Brehaut
Hannah Brehaut
Director
Image: Lisa Stemcosky
Lisa Stemcosky
Director
Image: Sam Pierce
Sam Pierce
Director
Image: Trudi Dempsy
Trudi Dempsy
Director
Board Committees
Our committees are essential to the governance and oversight of IAABC, ensuring that we stay true to our mission and values. Led by dedicated board members and supported by program managers and passionate volunteers, these committees drive the organization’s strategic initiatives, uphold our standards, and address key areas of our operations. They provide critical insights, guide decision-making, and help shape the future of IAABC. Being part of a committee is a great way for members to actively contribute to the community, develop leadership skills, and make a meaningful impact in the field of animal behavior consulting. We welcome and encourage members to join us in this important work.
Interested in participating or learning more? Please reach out to us by email to explore the opportunities available.
Fundraising
Focuses on networking and stakeholder engagement to grow the Sponsor program and explore new fundraising opportunities for financial stability.
Leadership
Recruits and nurtures future IAABC leaders, assisting with Board nominations and elections.
Legislation
Researches and advises on regulations and legislation that benefit animals and industry professionals.
Veterinarian Relations Committee
Works to engage the Veterinarian Community.
Policies and Procedures
Ensures compliance by keeping IAABC’s documentation and policy books up to date and aligned with organizational goals.
Standards of Practice
Defines and promotes IAABC standards to advance the field and increase visibility among animal owners and professionals.
Strategic Planning
Develops IAABC’s mission, core values, and strategies to achieve long-term goals.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice (DEIJ)
Champions diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and accessibility, seeking advocates to guide these efforts.
Finance
Supports the Board in fiscal management, monitoring financial performance, and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
Emeritus Members
We want to thank our Emeritus Members! Emeritus Members are retired from active behavior consulting. They are granted this honorary title in recognition of their significant contributions and distinguished service in the field. Although they no longer provide behavior services, they may still be active in the industry and often engage in activities like giving guest lectures, writing papers, and mentoring students.