COLUMBIA — Patty Forister has resigned as the executive director of the Central Missouri Humane Society, where she has worked since 2005.
Alan Allert, a veterinarian and environmental consultant, is filling the role of interim executive director effective Tuesday, Nov. 24.
“As we search for an executive director, we will of course identify candidates who share our primary concern and passion for the welfare of the thousands of unwanted animals that find their way to our door,” said Maria Furey, president of the Humane Society's board of directors.
Allert has a bachelor’s degree and doctorate in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University and an extensive background in veterinary care. Since 2005, he has been working as a private consultant to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“I am pleased to provide interim leadership for CMHS as the board moves forward with the Zootoo shelter renovation project, strategic planning and other important initiatives,” Allert said.
The society has been working to renovate its shelter and is considering new business models to save money.*
In October, Second Ward City Councilman Jason Thornhill requested an evaluation of the society in response to concerns about management of the local shelter and its finances, though he acknowledged some of the concerns might be based in hearsay and rumors.
Later that month, the board considered changing its operating model to allow adoption of fewer animals. An assessment conducted by SCORE, the Service Corps of Retired Executives, said the society takes too many animals with too few resources.
In the release, Furey said the board is grateful to Forister for her management.
“Our aging facility and increasing unwanted pet population have presented many challenges, and she has always faced them head-on,” said Furey.