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Leadership Team

Management Staff

Liz Smokowski
Chief Executive Officer

We are thrilled to introduce Liz Smokowski as the new Chief Executive Officer. Liz brings a wealth of experience and passion to our organization, having honed her skills in both the corporate and non-profit sectors.

Originally from Colorado, Liz’s journey in non-profit management is marked by her dedication to a range of humanitarian and animal welfare causes. Her career spans across various fields, including domestic violence, support for individuals with disabilities, and, close to her heart, animal welfare.

Liz holds an Associate’s Degree in Animal Health, where she gained hands-on experience as a certified Veterinary Technician. Furthering her education, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, followed by a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. This unique combination of scientific knowledge and business understanding positions her perfectly to lead our organization into a bright future.

Liz shares her enthusiasm for her new role: “Joining the Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County is a privilege and an exciting new chapter in my career. I am deeply committed to advancing our mission and ensuring the highest quality of welfare for the animals in our community. Together with our dedicated team, I look forward to enhancing our programs and services, making a meaningful difference in the lives of both animals and people in our region.”

Steve Smith
Director of Development

Steve joined the HSVB family in 2019, harnessing his deep-rooted knowledge from decades in marketing and design to amplify the organization’s mission and awareness campaigns. Prior to his role at HSVB, Steve spent over 13 years specializing in non-profit marketing, notably serving as the Director of Marketing for the VNA and consulting for numerous non-profits. During this period, he led groundbreaking campaigns and demonstrated an adept understanding of the intricacies of non-profit communication. Now, at HSVB, Steve consistently spearheads impactful marketing strategies and design initiatives, blending his rich experience with the organization’s unique objectives and aspirations.

Dr. Ciacciarelli, Veterinarian
Derrike Marksberry, Shelter Manager
Steve Ross, Retail Manager
Penny Mabry, Finance Manager
Mark Mancini, Facilities Manager
Michele Tessier, Human Resources Manager

Board of Directors

Susan Schuyler Smith, President
Wendy Trimarche, Past President
Rob Kusch, Vice President
Kathryn Barton, Treasurer
Rosalen E. Cline, Secretary

Members
Jan Christensen
Jill Collinson
Kristin Dobson
Gena K. Grove
Christine Hammarskjold
Melissa Handler
Mark Hvidsten
Kari Mason
Lisa McCarthy
Margaret Norris

Advisory
Eric Barkett
Becca Russell

Foundation
Dale Keyser, Chairman
Andrew Sowers, Vice Chairman & Treasurer
Christopher Johns, Secretary

Members
Kathryn Barton
Samuel F. Beach Jr.
Jan Christensen
Jill Collinson
Charles (Chip) Cruice
Gena Grove
Jan Hagemeier
Stan Klinefelter
Hans Kraaz
Rob Kusch
Susan Schuyler Smith