The City of Seattle has selected Ashley Harrington to serve as the new Executive Director of the Seattle Animal Shelter (SAS) following a comprehensive and competitive national search. Her first day will be July 30.
Harrington brings nearly 10 years of animal welfare experience to the role and most recently served as Director of Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control. While there, Harrington led a multifaceted team across shelter operations, customer service, veterinary services and field services.
“Ashley brings to this role both extensive, hands-on field and community outreach experience as well as strategic leadership experience guiding a large metro shelter,” said Kiersten Grove, director of the Department of Finance and Administrative Services, of which the shelter is one of 10 divisions. “We are so pleased to welcome her to the role and to continue the shelter’s critical work to promote humane and compassionate treatment of people and pets through equity, innovation and collaboration.”
While serving as director of Metro Nashville Animal Care and Control, Harrington was instrumental in developing innovative programs to improve adoption outcomes, expand community outreach, and ensure regulatory compliance, all while maintaining the highest standards of care for animals and service for the public. Under her leadership, the organization reinforced its role as a vital community resource by strengthening partnerships with law enforcement, rescue organizations and government entities.
“I look forward to meeting, learning from, and working with SAS’ incredible staff, team of volunteers, and community and labor partners,” Harrington said. “I’m excited to work together to advance the shelter’s vision and lead and support the community in keeping pets and their families together, healthy and safe.”
SAS is the city’s only open-admission shelter, meaning it cares for every animal, every time, regardless of age, species, behavior, or medical condition. Each year, SAS supports over 6,500 animals through its adoption and foster programs. It also operates spay/neuter services, free and low-cost vaccination and exams, crisis surgery, foodbank services, shelter options for unhoused pet guardians, pet training and behavior management, and other critical services.
“The Seattle Animal Shelter has a proud history as the city’s only open-admission shelter, and it’s been a leader in providing critical animal care for over 50 years,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. ”I’m excited to welcome Ashley as she and the incredible team of staff, volunteers and community build on and expand this rich legacy.”
Harrington’s career began in human service work and evolved into executive leadership and animal welfare. Previous positions with MAB Community Services in Massachusetts and the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office in Tennessee helped her gain valuable experience in crisis response, staff development and leading with compassion. Harrington also brings a strong foundation in public communication, having served as a spokesperson for media and public inquiries. She studied Sociology at the University of Massachusetts – Lowell.
For more information about the SAS and its services, please visit https://www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter
Interested in supporting the Shelter? Visit its donation website at https://www.seattle.gov/animal-shelter/get-involved/donate