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  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 09/23/2024 at 1:00 PM (EDT)

    In this DEI Executive Leadership Class, you will engage in self-reflection, create a roadmap for making DEI a strategic goal in your organization, and identify skills leaders need to model.

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    A four-hour accelerated workshop for leaders working towards an equitable and just profession.

    In this executive level leadership online workshop, you will work together as a cohort of committed leaders. You will engage in self-reflection, create a roadmap for making DEI a strategic goal in your organization, and identify the core skills leaders need to model.

    Workshop Objectives:

    • Define concepts of DEI and impact on animal welfare
    • Examine our DEI Journey Maps and share with others
    • Practice calling in conversations and how to foster open communication 
    • Strategize new ways to incorporate DEI practices throughout your organization 
    • Craft a 90-day action plan for the top three things you can do that would advance DEI in your organization

    While we recognize the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion from multiple levels of an organization, this course is specifically designed to support leaders, including executives, C-level staff, directors of municipal animal services, and board members.

    • Workshop takes place online 1pm - 5pm ET on Monday, September 23
    • This Zoom experience will not be recorded.
    • Virtual break rooms will be used for small group activities and reflection.
    • This course requires pre-work. Additional details will be provided after registration, however, we ask that leaders interested in this course commit to up to 3 hours of pre-work before our scheduled session. 
    • Participants who complete the course will receive a printable certificate of completion and access to office hours from Maria Morukian and Jasmin M. Robinson. 

    Presenters:

    - Jasmin M. Robinson, Director of DEI Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement
    - Maria Morukian, Founder & President, MSM Global Consulting


    Low-cost registration fees have been made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors.

    • $19 for Professional and Student members of The Association 
    • $39 for Learning Members
    • $99 for Industry Partners

    Become a member of The Association and save big.

    If your organization has a financial hardship that makes paying for this training difficult, please contact us at learning@theaawa.org to inquire about scholarships.

    Very limited seats available. Please register by Friday, September 13.


    This online workshop has been pre-approved for:

    • 4 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credits
    • 4 NACA CEs
    • 4 CEs towards ACO CE requirements per Ch. 829 of the Texas Health and Safety Code by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)

    Jasmin Robinson

    Director of DEI Initiatives

    The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

    Jasmin M. Robinson is The Association's Director of DEI Initiatives. She is also the CEO and Founder of I.D.E.A.L. Education, LLC., and a consultant with MSM Global Consulting. She has over 10 years of experience leading efforts to foster and maintain inclusive work environments that welcome, embrace, empower, and celebrate people. She is actively pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership at Indiana State University.

    Maria Morukian

    President and Founder

    MSM Global Consulting

    Maria Morukian, the president of MSM Global Consulting, has twenty years of experience as a facilitator, coach and consultant on leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion, and intercultural competence. Maria hosts a podcast on critical DEI issues called Culture Stew. She is author of the book, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Trainers: Fostering DEI in the Workplace and co-author of ATD’s Handbook for Training and Talent Development.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 08/20/2024 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

    The DEI Ambassador Program encompasses pre-work, a virtual orientation meeting, an in-person 3-day training, two (post-training) virtual learning sessions, and an opportunity for individual coaching.

    Phoenix, Arizona Cohort, September 4-6, 2024

    The DEI Ambassador Program encompasses pre-work, a virtual orientation meeting, an in-person 3-day training, two (post-training) virtual learning sessions, and an opportunity for individual coaching.

    Participants will gain knowledge and awareness of the importance of DEI in animal welfare, and skills for presenting on DEI to colleagues in the field and navigating challenging conversations. This program is cohort-based, bringing together a group of participants to learn with and from each other as a community.

    Ambassadors will receive learning resources and facilitation guides customized to address the specific DEI needs of the field identified in the 2021 State of DEI in Animal Welfare Audit. Participants will help their animal welfare organizations continue to serve as leaders of DEI in the animal welfare community overall and chart the course for other AWOs to follow.

    Learning Objectives:

    • Deepen knowledge and skills related to DEI and animal welfare.
    • Develop skills for leading trainings or presentations on DEI.
    • Learn tools for facilitating challenging classroom situations.
    • Practice leading DEI conversations and training activities for animal welfare workforce.

     Important Dates:

    • Applications Close:  July 23, 2024
    • Orientation:  August 20, 2024 12pm-1pm, ET
    • In-Person Training: Wednesday September 4-6, 2024 (travel 9/3 and 9/7) - Phoenix, AZ (Arizona Humane Society)
    • Webinar 1: Tuesday September 24 2024 12p-1pm ET
    • Webinar 2: Tuesday October 22, 2024 12pm-1pm ET 
    • Coaching Deadline: Friday October 25, 2024

    Watch an Intro Video



    Facilitators:

    - Jasmin M. Robinson, Director of DEI Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement
    - Maria Morukian, Founder & President, MSM Global Consulting


    All participants will enjoy full scholarships, including travel and accommodations. Click on the REGISTER button above to enroll in this program and complete the scholarship application.

    Prerequisite Criteria:

    • Basic knowledge and skills related to DEI.
    • Can define core concepts and their importance for animal welfare.
    • Has some experience engaging in constructive conversations with people who come from different backgrounds, ideologies, and perspectives.
    • Has an understanding of how biases can impact decisions and actions.
    • Experience in public speaking, training, presentations preferred.
    • Availability to participate fully in the pre and post program activities as well as the in-person training program.
    • Willingness and desire to facilitate a minimum of two DEI dialogues, activities or training sessions in their region within the first year of completing the program.
    • Represents an organization with a demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within its ranks and in its community.

    Required Commitments from Ambassadors:

    • Participate in program kickoff webinar.
    • Complete pre-work assignments prior to in-person training program.
    • Participate fully in a three day in-person program.
    • Participate in two follow up webinars.
    • Participate in a one hour 1:1 coaching session with DEI facilitator.

    Commitments from Ambassadors’ Supervisors:

    • Provide the time necessary (8 hours or more) of time during work hours. for participants to complete pre-program assignments.
    • Provide travel and lodging funding for participants to engage in the 3-day program. Scholarship funds can be made available.
    • Provide a minimum 40 hours of professional development time for participants to engage in the program plus adequate travel time for participants to participate fullY for 3 full days.
    • Provide adequate time during work hours for group calls with cohort post-training.
    • Provide adequate work time (or 4 days) for participants to lead DEI training activities at your animal welfare organization or other AWOs in the region.

    All participants will enjoy full scholarships, including travel and accommodations. Click on the REGISTER button above to enroll in this program and complete the scholarship application.

    On the application, you will be asked to explain your interest in and experience with DEI, as well as an example of how you handled a conflict invovling a DEI issue.

    Hosted by

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    1.     What are the benefits of the program?

    As of 12/2023, The Association's DEI Ambassador program has trained 74 ambassadors from four cohorts representing various animal welfare organizations throughout the nation since 2022. Participants receive education from skilled facilitators with expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion training, organizational culture, and professional development. Combined, they hold over 30 years of experience serving as thought partners to many industries, including non-profit, education, and government. 

    Participants who complete the program gain a deeper understanding of the historic and systemic issues in the animal welfare profession through a diversity, equity, and inclusion lens. Additionally, they will receive training and resources to effectively lead a diversity, equity, and inclusion focused engagement at their shelter or organization. 

    2.     Who is the program best suited for?

    The Ambassador program is for anyone who acknowledges that inequities exist in the animal welfare profession and are seeking strategies to address it. Specifically, this program is geared towards participants who are prepared to examine how racism impacts the animal welfare profession. While we encourage participation from every level of your organization, people who serve on or chair committees (professional development, DEI, hiring), human resource professionals (hiring managers, supervisors), or executive leaders (CEOs, vice presidents, board chairs) have found this program beneficial to their development. However, this program is open to anyone interested in systemic change.

    3.     Who is the program NOT suited for?

    This program is not for anyone resistant to acknowledging that inequities exist in animal welfare. While we don’t expect you to know everything related to DEI, we hope you have an essential recognition of and interest in DEI-related topics. Additionally, this program requires deep work and reflection. If you are in the early stages of your diversity, equity, and inclusion learning journey, we encourage you to start with the resources available on The Association's website.

    The short answer is yes. While participants aren’t expected to have formal training in diversity, equity, and inclusion, they will be expected to engage in conversations on different topics impacting the animal welfare profession. We highly encourage you to review the blog Six Takeaways About the State of DEI in Animal Welfare for more information on the most recent workplace challenges; a copy of the full report is also at the bottom of the blog page.   

    5.     How much does the program cost?

    At this time, travel, food, lodging, and materials are covered and reimbursable through The Association’s partnership with various donor sponsorships. Hotels, meals, and materials are provided upfront. Travel and three dinners are reimbursed. Participants must provide receipts for reimbursement and may not exceed the maximum amount outlined in the application.

    6.     Do I have to attend the entire program?

    Yes. We recognize the time commitment for this program and encourage you to make the best-informed decision based on the realities of your job responsibilities. This is an all-expense-paid opportunity, and we expect full participation in the orientation, three-day in-person program, post-training webinars. Your coaching session is optional, but highly encouraged.

    7.     What is the total time commitment for the program?

    This depends on how deeply you are willing to take your learning. However, we expect full participation in the orientation  (1 hour), prework (at least 8 hours), three-day in-person training, post-training sessions (two hours), plus at least 4 hours of work leading a DEI engagement on behalf of your organization within one year of completing the in-person training. This can vary, but we typically see this as leading training and facilitations, DEI committee work, or addressing exclusionary workplace culture in policies, employee engagement, or meetings.

    8.     When and where are the programs held?

    The 2024 DEI Ambassador Program dates are:

    • April 9-11, Atlanta, GA
    • June 4-6, Denver, CO
    • September 4-6, Phoenix, AZ

    We encourage people to arrive a day early to be fully prepared and ready to go for the duration of the program. Additionally, most participants return home after the third day, which ends around 3 pm local time.

    9.     How many people can be in the program?

    Each cohort has a maximum of 20 participants.

    10. What happens when the program is completed?

    After participants complete the in-person training, they will officially be Alumni and have access to the virtual space in The Network, which is The Association’s online engagement platform. You’ll be able to connect with other alumni, share resources, and get updates on special offers and training exclusive to Alumni Ambassadors. 

    Maria Morukian

    President and Founder

    MSM Global Consulting

    Maria Morukian, the president of MSM Global Consulting, has twenty years of experience as a facilitator, coach and consultant on leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion, and intercultural competence. Maria hosts a podcast on critical DEI issues called Culture Stew. She is author of the book, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Trainers: Fostering DEI in the Workplace and co-author of ATD’s Handbook for Training and Talent Development.

    Jasmin Robinson

    Director of DEI Initiatives

    The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

    Jasmin M. Robinson is The Association's Director of DEI Initiatives. She is also the CEO and Founder of I.D.E.A.L. Education, LLC., and a consultant with MSM Global Consulting. She has over 10 years of experience leading efforts to foster and maintain inclusive work environments that welcome, embrace, empower, and celebrate people. She is actively pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership at Indiana State University.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 06/05/2024 at 3:00 PM (EDT)

    Discover how your organization can lessen the risk of costly and stressful liability and legal problems.

    NEW DATE: Wednesday, June 5

    From dog bites to animal transportation and medical care to worker's comp, animal shelters and rescues have unique liability risks, related to both animals and people.

    David Denniston, Director of Risk Management for McNeil & Co, Inc., has experience working with animal welfare organizations to mitigate their risk. David will explain how your organization can lessen the risk of costly and stressful liability and legal problems. He will provide sample language and policies you can use right away. This session will also explore practical strategies for inspiring a deep and lasting commitment to safety and mission-protection in your nonprofit.

    This webinar has been pre-approved for:

    • 1 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credit
    • 1 NACA CE
    • 1 CE towards ACO CE requirements per Ch. 829 of the Texas Health and Safety Code by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)

    Dave Denniston

    Director of Risk Management

    McNeil and Company Inc

    Dave Denniston is the Director of Risk Management for McNeil and Company, Inc. He also serves as Executive Director of the National FARMEDIC Training Program. Dave has over 30 years in Risk Management, Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and has served as an officer in several local, state, and national organizations. Dave has served as Chief, President and Chairman of the Board for the Cortlandville (NY) Fire District, where he is still active as Department Chaplin. Dave is a Fire Commissioner in the Virgil Fire District and a Director for the Association of Fire Districts, State of New York.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 05/21/2024 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

    The DEI Ambassador Program encompasses pre-work, a virtual orientation meeting, an in-person 3-day training, two (post-training) virtual learning sessions, and an opportunity for individual coaching.

    Denver, Colorado Cohort, June 5-7, 2024

    The DEI Ambassador Program encompasses pre-work, a virtual orientation meeting, an in-person 3-day training, two (post-training) virtual learning sessions, and an opportunity for individual coaching.

    Participants will gain knowledge and awareness of the importance of DEI in animal welfare, and skills for presenting on DEI to colleagues in the field and navigating challenging conversations. This program is cohort-based, bringing together a group of participants to learn with and from each other as a community.

    Ambassadors will receive learning resources and facilitation guides customized to address the specific DEI needs of the field identified in the 2021 State of DEI in Animal Welfare Audit. Participants will help their animal welfare organizations continue to serve as leaders of DEI in the animal welfare community overall and chart the course for other AWOs to follow.

    Learning Objectives:

    • Deepen knowledge and skills related to DEI and animal welfare.
    • Develop skills for leading trainings or presentations on DEI.
    • Learn tools for facilitating challenging classroom situations.
    • Practice leading DEI conversations and training activities for animal welfare workforce.

     Important Dates:

    • Applications Close: Tuesday April 16, 2024
    • Orientation: Tuesday May 21, 2024, 12pm-1pm, ET
    • In-Person Training: June 5-7, 2024 (travel 6/4) Denver, CO
    • Webinar 1: June 25, 12pm-1pm ET
    • Webinar 2: July 16, 12pm-1pm ET
    • Coaching Deadline: Friday July 26, 2024

    Watch an Intro Video


    Facilitators:

    - Jasmin M. Robinson, Director of DEI Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement
    - Maria Morukian, Founder & President, MSM Global Consulting


    All participants will enjoy full scholarships, including travel and accommodations. Click on the REGISTER button above to enroll in this program and complete the scholarship application.

    Prerequisite Criteria:

    • Basic knowledge and skills related to DEI.
    • Can define core concepts and their importance for animal welfare.
    • Has some experience engaging in constructive conversations with people who come from different backgrounds, ideologies, and perspectives.
    • Has an understanding of how biases can impact decisions and actions.
    • Experience in public speaking, training, presentations preferred.
    • Availability to participate fully in the pre and post program activities as well as the in-person training program.
    • Willingness and desire to facilitate a minimum of two DEI dialogues, activities or training sessions in their region within the first year of completing the program.
    • Represents an organization with a demonstrated commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within its ranks and in its community.

    Required Commitments from Ambassadors:

    • Participate in program kickoff webinar.
    • Complete pre-work assignments prior to in-person training program.
    • Participate fully in a three day in-person program.
    • Participate in two follow up webinars.
    • Participate in a one hour 1:1 coaching session with DEI facilitator.

    Commitments from Ambassadors’ Supervisors:

    • Provide the time necessary (8 hours or more) of time during work hours. for participants to complete pre-program assignments.
    • Provide travel and lodging funding for participants to engage in the 3-day program. Scholarship funds can be made available.
    • Provide a minimum 40 hours of professional development time for participants to engage in the program plus adequate travel time for participants to participate fullY for 3 full days.
    • Provide adequate time during work hours for group calls with cohort post-training.
    • Provide adequate work time (or 4 days) for participants to lead DEI training activities at your animal welfare organization or other AWOs in the region.

    All participants will enjoy full scholarships, including travel and accommodations. Click on the REGISTER button above to enroll in this program and complete the scholarship application.

    On the application, you will be asked to explain your interest in and experience with DEI, as well as an example of how you handled a conflict invovling a DEI issue.

    Hosted by

    image

    1.     What are the benefits of the program?

    As of 12/2023, The Association's DEI Ambassador program has trained 74 ambassadors from four cohorts representing various animal welfare organizations throughout the nation since 2022. Participants receive education from skilled facilitators with expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion training, organizational culture, and professional development. Combined, they hold over 30 years of experience serving as thought partners to many industries, including non-profit, education, and government. 

    Participants who complete the program gain a deeper understanding of the historic and systemic issues in the animal welfare profession through a diversity, equity, and inclusion lens. Additionally, they will receive training and resources to effectively lead a diversity, equity, and inclusion focused engagement at their shelter or organization. 

    2.     Who is the program best suited for?

    The Ambassador program is for anyone who acknowledges that inequities exist in the animal welfare profession and are seeking strategies to address it. Specifically, this program is geared towards participants who are prepared to examine how racism impacts the animal welfare profession. While we encourage participation from every level of your organization, people who serve on or chair committees (professional development, DEI, hiring), human resource professionals (hiring managers, supervisors), or executive leaders (CEOs, vice presidents, board chairs) have found this program beneficial to their development. However, this program is open to anyone interested in systemic change.

    3.     Who is the program NOT suited for?

    This program is not for anyone resistant to acknowledging that inequities exist in animal welfare. While we don’t expect you to know everything related to DEI, we hope you have an essential recognition of and interest in DEI-related topics. Additionally, this program requires deep work and reflection. If you are in the early stages of your diversity, equity, and inclusion learning journey, we encourage you to start with the resources available on The Association's website.

    The short answer is yes. While participants aren’t expected to have formal training in diversity, equity, and inclusion, they will be expected to engage in conversations on different topics impacting the animal welfare profession. We highly encourage you to review the blog Six Takeaways About the State of DEI in Animal Welfare for more information on the most recent workplace challenges; a copy of the full report is also at the bottom of the blog page.   

    5.     How much does the program cost?

    At this time, travel, food, lodging, and materials are covered and reimbursable through The Association’s partnership with various donor sponsorships. Hotels, meals, and materials are provided upfront. Travel and three dinners are reimbursed. Participants must provide receipts for reimbursement and may not exceed the maximum amount outlined in the application.

    6.     Do I have to attend the entire program?

    Yes. We recognize the time commitment for this program and encourage you to make the best-informed decision based on the realities of your job responsibilities. This is an all-expense-paid opportunity, and we expect full participation in the orientation, three-day in-person program, post-training webinars. Your coaching session is optional, but highly encouraged.

    7.     What is the total time commitment for the program?

    This depends on how deeply you are willing to take your learning. However, we expect full participation in the orientation  (1 hour), prework (at least 8 hours), three-day in-person training, post-training sessions (two hours), plus at least 4 hours of work leading a DEI engagement on behalf of your organization within one year of completing the in-person training. This can vary, but we typically see this as leading training and facilitations, DEI committee work, or addressing exclusionary workplace culture in policies, employee engagement, or meetings.

    8.     When and where are the programs held?

    The 2024 DEI Ambassador Program dates are:

    • April 9-11, Atlanta, GA
    • June 4-6, Denver, CO
    • September 4-6, Phoenix, AZ

    We encourage people to arrive a day early to be fully prepared and ready to go for the duration of the program. Additionally, most participants return home after the third day, which ends around 3 pm local time.

    9.     How many people can be in the program?

    Each cohort has a maximum of 20 participants.

    10. What happens when the program is completed?

    After participants complete the in-person training, they will officially be Alumni and have access to the virtual space in The Network, which is The Association’s online engagement platform. You’ll be able to connect with other alumni, share resources, and get updates on special offers and training exclusive to Alumni Ambassadors. 

    Maria Morukian

    President and Founder

    MSM Global Consulting

    Maria Morukian, the president of MSM Global Consulting, has twenty years of experience as a facilitator, coach and consultant on leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion, and intercultural competence. Maria hosts a podcast on critical DEI issues called Culture Stew. She is author of the book, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Trainers: Fostering DEI in the Workplace and co-author of ATD’s Handbook for Training and Talent Development.

    Jasmin Robinson

    Director of DEI Initiatives

    The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

    Jasmin M. Robinson is The Association's Director of DEI Initiatives. She is also the CEO and Founder of I.D.E.A.L. Education, LLC., and a consultant with MSM Global Consulting. She has over 10 years of experience leading efforts to foster and maintain inclusive work environments that welcome, embrace, empower, and celebrate people. She is actively pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership at Indiana State University.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 05/08/2024 at 3:00 PM (EDT)

    Learn what is expected of an expert witness in an animal cruelty or custody case.

    Three legal experts will discuss:

    • the role of the animal expert in court proceedings, including testimony in court as well as advising and educating attorneys
    • preparation for testimony, including cross-examination
    • best practices for the forensic witness
    • war stories and current trends

    This session will reduce the fear of the unknown and instill confidence in testifying by explaining what is expected of an expert witness and outline things one should and should not do on the stand.  Veterinarians often are especially reluctant to become involved with cruelty cases because of the fear of testifying in what they consider a potential adversarial situation and may feel they must make the entire case or speak in absolutes.

    Who should attend: veterinarians, animal control officers, anyone who may engage in an animal cruelty or custody investigation and be asked to testify as an expert.

    Speakers:

    • Don Cocek, APA Fellow, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys
    • Gillian Deegan, Prosecutor, Botetourt County, Virginia
    • Melinda Merck, DVM, Veterinary Forensics Consulting

    This webinar is presented in cooperation with the Companion Animal Law Subcommittee of the American Bar Association and has been pre-approved for:

    • 1 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credit
    • 1 NACA CE
    • 1 CE towards ACO CE requirements per Ch. 829 of the Texas Health and Safety Code by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)

    Don Cocek

    APA Fellow

    Association of Prosecuting Attorneys

    Don Cocek’s legal career at the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office spanned 32 years. He was the Supervising City Attorney in charge of both the Animal Protection Unit and the Code Enforcement Unit. Don prosecuted hundreds of cases from the spcaLA, LA Animal Services, CA & US Fish & Wildlife, and other agencies involving animal cruelty, animal neglect, and violations dealing with protected species. He trained humane, animal control and police officers, and veterinarians in the investigation of and in the trial skills needed to prosecute animal related cases. Don is a fellow at the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys, is a member of APA’s Animal Cruelty Advisory Committee, teaches Trial Advocacy, and has been on the faculty at APA’s National Animal Cruelty Prosecution Conferences. In May 2014, Don received the first ever APA Prosecutor of the Year Award.

    Gillian Deegan

    Prosecutor

    Botetourt County, Virginia

    Gillian Deegan is the Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney in Botetourt County VA where she is responsible for prosecuting all of the animal cruelty and neglect cases in her county.  She worked as a Contract Attorney for the Animal Legal Defense Fund and was on the faculty of the North American Veterinary Community’s Animal CSI Certificate Program.  She sat on the Board of Directors for the International Veterinary Forensic Sciences Association and was Vice President of the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force.  She is on the faculty of the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys and is a member of their Animal Cruelty Advisory Committee. 

    Jill is the Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney in Botetourt County Virginia, where she has worked as a prosecutor for 20 years. She has worked in the Virginia Criminal Justice System for over 30 years and has specialized in animal cruelty investigations and prosecutions.

    Melinda Merck, DVM

    Founder

    Veterinary Forensics Consulting

    Dr. Melinda Merck is the owner of Veterinary Forensics Consulting in Austin, Texas. Her background includes private practice and shelter medicine. She provides expert case consultations and testimony. Dr. Merck provides training nationally and internationally on the use of veterinary forensics in the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases and the link to crimes against humans.

    Dr. Merck is the learning facilitator of the AAHA Forensic Process for Veterinarians and course coordinator for the VetFolio Veterinary Forensics online certificate courses. She is an affiliate member of the WSAVA One Health Committee and was the founding chair of the Board of Directors for the International Veterinary Forensic Sciences Association. Dr. Merck is the editor and contributing author of the textbook, Veterinary Forensics: Animal Cruelty Investigation and a contributing author of other textbooks on the subject veterinary forensics and animal cruelty investigations.

     She has developed veterinary forensics courses for veterinary schools and frequently lectures at veterinary and law colleges. She serves on the Association of Prosecuting Attorney’s Animal Cruelty Advisory Council and the Texas Veterinary Medical Association’s Animal Welfare Committee.


  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 05/01/2024 at 3:00 PM (EDT)

    Come explore strategies for building an endurance mindset to DEI and try out tools to develop the stamina to continue progressing—even when you feel like you’ve hit the wall.

    Is your DEI work burning you out?  

    Anyone involved in DEI efforts may be feeling exhausted by what seem like insurmountable odds, especially after repeated attempts to make progress are met with resistance, inaction, and even hostility. How can you move your efforts forward in these moments without causing damage to yourself and others?

    Come explore strategies for building an endurance mindset to DEI and try out tools to develop the stamina to continue progressing—even when you feel like you’ve hit the wall.
    Session Objectives:

    • Identify common causes for hitting the DEI Wall
    • Explore tools to avoid burnout and build individual physical, mental, and emotional stamina
    • Determine organizational strategies and practices to maintain steady and sustainable progress toward DEI goals in the face of fatigue or blowback

    Presenter: Jasmin M. Robinson, Director of DEI Initiatives, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement


    This webinar has been pre-approved for:

    • 1 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credit
    • 1 NACA CE
    • 1 CE towards ACO CE requirements per Ch. 829 of the Texas Health and Safety Code by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)

    Jasmin Robinson

    Director of DEI Initiatives

    The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

    Jasmin M. Robinson is The Association's Director of DEI Initiatives. She is also the CEO and Founder of I.D.E.A.L. Education, LLC., and a consultant with MSM Global Consulting. She has over 10 years of experience leading efforts to foster and maintain inclusive work environments that welcome, embrace, empower, and celebrate people. She is actively pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education Leadership at Indiana State University.

  • 1 new product(s) added recently

    These learning opportunities are designed to further the eradication of systemic discrimination and racism in animal welfare.

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    View our DEI Resource Library found on our main site.



    Discover all of our DEI learning opportunities.




    The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement is committed to action on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in animal welfare and we want you with us on this journey. As part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Commitment to Action, The Association will continue offering resources and learning opportunities designed to further the eradication of systemic discrimination and racism in animal welfare.

    We thank The Life of Riley at Spring Point for their support of The Association's DEI initiatives.

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    Gain skills for navigating challenging conversations around DEI and get practice presenting to colleagues. This program includes a 3-day in-person training and online coaching. 

    All participants will enjoy full scholarships, including travel and accommodations.

    This year's training cohorts:

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    Participants in this four-hour online workshop, designed for individuals in leadership roles, will explore why and how to advance DEI at their organization. 

    Low-cost registration fees have been made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors.





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    Check out The Association’s DEI Pride Store, where your purchase of tees and hoodies helps to support our Conference Scholarship Fund.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 04/24/2024 at 3:00 PM (EDT)

    This case study explores the journey of the Animal Rescue League of Boston's Wellness Waggin' program which is now a successful mobile veterinary unit that has completed over 14,000 wellness care appointments since 2018.

    The Healthy Animal-Healthy Community Initiative: A Case Study of Providing Access to Veterinary Care

    Over the last decade, animal welfare organizations in the US have shifted their focus towards addressing the root causes of animal problems, realizing the importance of addressing the human aspect of the issue. Program models have moved away from shelter-based services to more preventive, community-based solutions. The Animal Rescue League of Boston recognized this shift and updated its mission and vision to include bringing veterinary and wellness services directly to those who need it most, ensuring that animals are safe and healthy in communities rather than shelters.

    This case study explores the journey of the Animal Rescue League of Boston's Wellness Waggin' program, from its conception to implementation, including steps like determining a target area, building community relationships, securing funding, and launching a pilot program. The Wellness Waggin' is now a successful mobile veterinary unit that has completed over 14,000 wellness care appointments since 2018.

    Attendees will leave the webinar with:

    • A basic framework for implementing a new community-based program, including an alternative grass-roots approach to engaging with community that is achievable for organizations of all sizes.
    • Ideas for learning what each community needs
    • Ways to determine a target community for a new community-based program or for creating new community partnerships

    This webinar has been pre-approved for:

    • 1 Certified Animal Welfare Administrator continuing education credit
    • 1 NACA CE
    • 1 CE towards ACO CE requirements per Ch. 829 of the Texas Health and Safety Code by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)

    Edward Schettino, DVM, PhD

    President & CEO, Animal Rescue League of Boston

    Dr. Schettino is a graduate of the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Formerly the Vice President of Animal Welfare and Veterinary Services at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, he is now their President & CEO. He has an MBA from Clark University’s Graduate School of Management, and both his Masters and PhD in the Basic Medical Sciences (Immunology), from New York University’s Graduate School of Arts and Science.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 04/23/2024 at 4:00 PM (EDT)

    Learn about PACT, a new movement in sheltering that recognizes the power of working together as outlined in nine shared beliefs.

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    Compassion, transparency, leadership.

    These are the drivers of People and Animals in Community Together (PACT), a new movement in sheltering that recognizes the power of working together as outlined in nine shared beliefs. Hundreds of organizations and their communities are already on board or are in the process of making a PACT. 

    Join your host Michael Robbins for a candid conversation with longtime shelter leaders Sharon Harvey, Joe Elmore, and Dr. Kendall Houlihan about why they embrace PACT — and why you should, too. This discussion will be tailored to executive leadership, but all are welcome to learn more about the nine tenets of PACT.

    Panelists:

    • Joe Elmore, President & CEO, Charleston Animal Society
    • Sharon Harvey, President & CEO, Cleveland Animal Protective League
    • Dr. Kendall Houlihan, Associate Director in the Animal Welfare Division, AVMA

    Moderator:

    • Michael Robbins, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Atlanta Humane Society

    Joe Elmore, CAWA, CFRE

    President & Chief Executive Officer

    Charleston Animal Society

    Joe Elmore has served as the President and CEO of Charleston Animal Society since 2012. When he joined, he brought 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Joe also organized the statewide initiative No Kill South Carolina and led the effort to pass the first felony animal cruelty law in the U.S.

    Sharon Harvey

    President & CEO

    Cleveland Animal Protective League (APL)

    Sharon Harvey is the president & CEO of the Cleveland Animal Protective League (APL), a private, nonprofit humane society in Ohio, where she and her team are working to reduce access to pet care and housing barriers that are faced by families living in an impoverished, under-resourced community. Sharon also regularly lobbies and testifies for stronger animal welfare laws in Ohio. Sharon currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for both Shelter Animal Count (the national database for animal welfare), President of the Board of the Ohio Animal Welfare Federation and is a member of the Hill’s Shelter Advisory Board. She is a past board member for the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement.

    Kendall Houlihan

    Associate Director, Animal Welfare Division

    AVMA

    Dr. Kendall Houlihan, an Associate Director in the Animal Welfare Division, has served at the American Veterinary Medical  (AVMA) since 2014. In that role, she supports the mission and vision of the AVMA regarding the development and implementation of animal welfare and human-animal interaction policies utilizing sound scientific evidence and consideration of ethical and societal implications. Dr. Houlihan earned her undergraduate degree from University of Notre Dame and her veterinary degree from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.

    Michael Robbins

    Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer

    Atlanta Humane Society

    Michael Robbins is a senior executive with more than 12 years of distinguished accomplishments in both the corporate and nonprofit environments. Michael has been serving as the chair of the COVID-19 Communications Task Force. Currently, he serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for the Atlanta Humane Society. Immediately prior, Mike spent 10 years with the Michigan Humane Society.

  • Product not yet rated Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 04/10/2024 at 3:00 PM (EDT)

    During this webinar, the study’s principal investigator and The Association’s CEO will share findings from our recent National Access to Veterinary Care study.

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    The nationwide shortage of veterinarians disproportionately affects the work of animal welfare and animal care & control agencies.  

    Recognizing that we need to understand how the access to care crisis impacts our profession, The Association and The Program for Pet Health Equity at the University of Tennessee recently fielded a national survey to gain insights. Hundreds of organizations participated in the study which was comprised of questions related to personnel, budgets, and medical programs.

    We need to understand the breadth and depth of these challenges so we can work toward solutions.  During this webinar, the study’s principal investigator and The Association’s CEO will share our findings.

    Linda Daugherty, MPA

    Associate Director of Research

    The Program for Pet Health Equity, University of Tennessee

    Jim Tedford, CAWA

    President & CEO, The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement

    Jim Tedford accepted his dream job when he joined The Association as President & CEO in June of 2015.  But Jim is no stranger to the organization.  He has been a member for more than 30 years and served as our Board Chairman some twenty years ago.  Jim has been actively engaged in the animal welfare movement for more than 39 years having served as CEO for animal sheltering organizations in New York, Louisiana and Tennessee.  He served as a regional director for The Humane Society of the United States and then spent six years providing direct response marketing services to animal welfare organizations. Jim presents frequently at national and regional conferences on various animal welfare issues, organizational development and not-for-profit management.