Photo Courtesy of Dakin Humane Society
By KENNEDY GRIFFIN
(Franklin County, MA) The Dakin Humane Society has found a new executive director, Megan Talbert, after a nationwide search following the departure of the former executive director, Carmine DiCenso. Talbert was voted in unanimously by Dakin’s Board of Directors.
Talbert is a New England native and currently serves as the Chief Development Officer at Way Finders in Springfield, MA. She has lead multi-million dollar non-profit organizations in addition to her skills in fundraising, community engagement, and volunteer efforts.
Tiffany Appleton, President of Dakin’s Board of Directors said, “Megan has dedicated her career to non-profit leadership for nearly 20 years. She will bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and deep care of supporting the human-animal bond as well as expertise to Dakin. I have no doubt that Dakin’s reputation and mission will thrive under her leadership and am thrilled to bring her on board to lead Dakin Humane Society into the future.”
Appleton also said, “Dakin’s core values and beliefs match [Talbert’s]: that people are good and will make good decisions for animals when they are treated with kindness and understanding, and when they have enough information and resources.”
The Dakin Animal Shelter on Montague Road in Leverett was closed following changes to the organization during the pandemic. However, Dakin’s ties to the Franklin County community remain strong with events and support efforts. In July, Dakin took in over 70 cats and kitten from a Franklin County resident’s home.