Nevada City – Fran Cole, executive director of Sammie’s Friends, has announced that she is stepping down July 1 to return to her law practice but will remain a champion of the organization.
The nonprofit’s board and the County intend to work collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition of leadership so that there are no interruptions to the services at the Nevada County Animal Shelter.
“I have been thrilled to have been part of this organization,” Cole said. “I am incredibly proud of the dedicated staff, volunteers, and partners who work tirelessly every day to care for our animals and support our mission. I am confident in the shelter team and the County as they continue to work together to provide the best possible services to our community’s animals.”
County Executive Officer Alison Lehman said she appreciates Cole’s leadership as the executive director. “Fran’s dedication and contributions have been deeply appreciated. Her long-standing involvement with the shelter is a testament to her commitment to the care and well-being of animals in Nevada County.”
Cheryl Berg, Sammie’s Friends board president, said Cole’s legal experience has been invaluable. “Fran has energized the board of directors by recruiting new board members with a variety of impressive skill sets and has introduced numerous consultants and animal welfare experts to the board members so collectively we can gain greater insight into shelter management, animal advocacy and legislation. Fran has devoted countless hours and many sleepless nights to the organization, yet she remains full of energy and optimism.”
Cole has worked as a business, corporate and regulatory lawyer and has been active with numerous nonprofits, including Bear Yuba Land Trust, where she was a former president.
The County has contracted with Sammie’s Friends to provide animal shelter services since 2010. Sammie’s Friends is a nonprofit that strives to be a safe and caring place for neglected, abandoned and abused animals to be cared for and rehabilitated, when necessary, and adopted as quickly as possible into loving homes.