Denise Hayes has served as COO of regional Girl Scouts
The Roanoke Valley Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has announced the appointment of C. Denise Hayes of Roanoke as the new CEO for the region’s largest organization for homeless and unwanted animals.
Hayes, a long-time foster and advocate for the RVSPCA, has most recently been serving as chief operating officer at Girl Scouts of Virginia Skyline. She begins her new role Feb. 21.
“We are delighted to select an experienced non-profit executive who loves animals, and has already contributed as a volunteer, to lead our organization into the future,” said Barbara Dalhouse, president of the RVSPCA’s board of directors. “Our board recognized the many talents Denise brings to us, including strategic planning, oversight of a robust volunteer program, budget planning, community outreach and leadership development.”
Hayes will replace Kandy Elliott, who has served as the interim executive director since August.
During her almost nine years at the Girl Scouts, most recently as chief operating officer, Hayes has overseen daily operations for an organization that serves nearly 10,000 girls and 3,500 adult volunteers in a 36-county region. She also has led programming, membership and volunteer services.
Prior to joining the Girl Scouts, Hayes worked in event management at both Washington & Lee University School of Law and at the Homestead Resort in Hot Springs. She graduated from Mary Baldwin College in Staunton.
“We interviewed candidates from other states but found the best fit was a choice close to home,” Dalhouse said. “The board looks forward to working with Denise. At the same time, we are grateful for the leadership, expertise and dedication of our interim director, Kandy Elliott, who has steered our organization through significant positive change.”
Hayes will lead an organization with 15 full-time and 10 part-time employees and hundreds of volunteers.
Since 1916, the Roanoke Valley SPCA has been the leading advocate for the homeless and unwanted animals of the area. Its Barbara and Warner Dalhouse Adoption & Education Center is designed to provide for the care of homeless, adoptable animals while they wait for adoption into permanent, long-term homes. It is a limited admission, no-kill facility. The goal is to provide healthy, well-adjusted animals for those seeking to add a pet to their family. All animals are spayed/neutered prior to adoption. Vaccinations are brought up to date, including the rabies vaccine, and all pets are micro chipped.