Meet our staff!
We believe our staff is the most compassionate, hardest working group of people there is.
They go above and beyond for our animals and we are grateful for them!
Shawn Bliton
Executive Director
"I am a proud U.S. Army Veteran. I served in the Army for nine years. I am a happily married father of four. I became the director of the humane society because I have a deep passion for serving both animals and people. As a veteran and a father, I understand the importance of compassion, responsibility, and leadership.
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"This role allows me to make a positive impact in the community by advocating for animal welfare, supporting families in finding their perfect companions, and fostering a culture of kindness and care.
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"A fun fact about myself is that I know quite a bit of useless facts about many different things. Also, I am a big fan of dad jokes!"
Belicia Garcia
Canine Team Lead
"I am a fur parent to 3 cats, 2 dogs, and, so far, 12 foster dogs! I've always loved animals of all kinds, furry or spikey, and knew I wanted to incorporate animals into my everyday life. For my '22 senior project, I presented a seminar to elementary school students on animal body language with my pet hedgehog. This experience motivated me to venture into a career where I can help set up animals and families for success. I love being able to help my community and advocate for our pets, whether that's through enrichment, educating on body language, or helping find the perfect fit for every home!
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"I hope to truly make a difference in the lives of the dogs I come across. I've found fostering to be incredibly rewarding and truly improves a dog's chance at finding a home. My position at BCHS allows me to provide support, nurturement, leadership, and allows me to consistently learn new things to better myself, my team, and community. My mission is to provide care, shelter, and attention to our homeless pets in need as well as educating, supporting, and assisting our local society."
Sarah Ruf
Resource Development Manager
"Growing up, I always loved animals (I mean really loved animals), and that passion led me to build my career in the animal field. I started my journey as a Zookeeper, training and learning exotic husbandry. I was blessed with two amazing kids and a husband who loves dogs just as much as I do. As my knowledge and love for animals grew, I found I not only liked helping animals, but educating and inspiring people as well.
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"As new paths opened, I found myself led to the amazing work of BCHS with a drive to help animals by engaging the community. As I stepped into a roll at BCHS, I found it surrounded and supported by beautiful community. My mission is to foster that community and help it grow by helping provide support and an uplifting outlook."
Tara Shuler
Feline Team Lead
"Growing up, I loved and adored all animals, but especially cats. I have many of my own that I love with my whole heart. As a kid, I used to dream about working somewhere I could save animals. That dream has led me here to the Humane Society, where cats and dogs are saved every day.
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"I came to the Humane Society to help better the lives of every animal that walks in. To be able to work through their behavior issues if they have any. To show them what love and compassion are. And, most importantly, to send them to the perfect home, where they will be loved forever."
Brooklyn Sutton
Canine Enrichment and Behavior Specialist
"I am a proud fur parent to one dog of my own, one foster dog, and a kitten. I have been in the canine field for a little over seven years. I started my journey at DogWorld Daycare and Behavioral Center, where I gained most of my knowledge that set up my future for success. In the past, I was made aware of neglectful owners in my community where I was given the support of BCHS to help rescue, house, and adopt out a group of 8 dogs.
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"This gave me the spark to pursue a career at BCHS, and when given the chance, I knew it was the position for me. I have a strong passion to advocate for those who can't and help those who need. My role within BCHS allows me to nurture every dog to become their best selves, as well as guide owners through behavioral hardships."
