Celebrating the Women Who Power Cincinnati Animal CARE

Meet the Women Who Make It Happen

March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the trailblazers who have shaped our world—and at Cincinnati Animal CARE, we don’t have to look far to find them. We are incredibly lucky and grateful to be an organization led by a powerhouse team of dedicated, compassionate, and driven women. These leaders don’t just care for animals; they save lives, drive innovation, and strengthen our no-kill mission in Hamilton County every single day.

Carolyn Evans

Executive Director

A founding member of Cincinnati Animal CARE (CAC), Carolyn has been at the helm since 2020, leading the charge in securing Hamilton County’s animal services contract, which was recently renewed for a decade. Her commitment to the Best Friends Animal Society’s No-Kill 2025 initiative started with the formation of Clermont Animal CARE in 2017, laying the foundation for CAC’s lifesaving programs. A champion for adoption and spay/neuter initiatives, Carolyn has helped place over 8,000 animals into loving homes through My Furry Valentine and supported 185,000 surgeries at UCAN.

Meaghan Colville

Shelter Director

Meaghan is the strategic force behind CAC’s no-kill success, ensuring that our shelter operations run smoothly and effectively. Since launching CAC in 2020, she has led a team committed to implementing progressive, life-saving programs. With a background in humane education, community outreach, and shelter management, Meaghan’s expertise and passion drive the organization’s ability to save lives at an unprecedented rate.

Amanda Gilbert

Medical Director

With 20 years as a Registered Veterinary Technician, Amanda ensures that every animal in our care receives the highest level of medical treatment. As one of only nine Veterinary Technician Specialists in Emergency and Critical Care in Ohio, Amanda is a leader in the field, mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals while providing exceptional care to our most vulnerable animals.

Kelly Sauer

Community Support Manager

Kelly is the heartbeat of our community programs, ensuring that pet owners have the resources they need to keep their beloved animals. Through education, outreach, and partnerships, she works to reduce shelter intake by helping people care for their pets at home—because keeping families together is always the goal.

Beth Ward

Associate Director of Field Services/Chief Dog Warden

With over 30 years in animal welfare, Beth brings a wealth of experience to her role in overseeing field services and ensuring the safety of animals and residents in Hamilton County. Her leadership ensures that our community’s pets receive protection, care, and advocacy.

Jessica Grimes

Senior Colerain Shelter Manager

Jessica transitioned from the corporate world to follow her passion for animal welfare. With over a decade in the field, she oversees our foster and outcomes teams, making sure animals find their perfect forever homes while mentoring the next generation of animal welfare professionals.

Brittney Wandsnider

Senior Dane Shelter Manager

Brittney has revolutionized CAC’s cat care program, building it from the ground up. Her innovative approach to feline welfare ensures that cats receive the best possible care, from intake to adoption. In her new role as Senior Dane Shelter Manager, Brittney also oversees our dog care program with the same care and compassion she extends to the cat care team!

Lisa Colina

Senior Communications Manager

Lisa is the voice behind CAC’s message, using her background in journalism and communications to inspire action. Whether it’s promoting adoptions, fundraising, or community engagement, she ensures that CAC’s mission reaches as many hearts as possible.

Kareess Noel

Medical Operations Manager

With over a decade of experience in animal care, Kareess leads our medical team in providing life-saving treatment to the animals who need it most. Her dedication ensures that every pet receives compassionate care, no matter their circumstances.

Lori Hiltenbeitel

Chief Development Officer

Lori’s passion for animal welfare fuels her work in fundraising and development. She connects our mission with the community, inspiring donations and support that allow us to continue saving lives.

Women Leading the Way in Animal Welfare

These extraordinary women do more than just run Cincinnati Animal CARE—they redefine what’s possible in the animal welfare space. Every adoption, every medical case, every life saved is a testament to their hard work, passion, and resilience.

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate them and every woman who fights for the well-being of animals. Because of their leadership, Cincinnati Animal CARE continues to be a beacon of hope for pets and people alike.

From all of us at CAC: Thank you to the women who make our mission possible! 💙🐾