ASPCA Elects Sally Spooner to Chair of the Board of Leading National Animal Welfare Organization

NEW YORK—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced that former advertising executive and longtime animal welfare advocate Sally Spooner has been elected Chair of the ASPCA’s Board of Directors, succeeding Fred Tanne in that position. Mr. Tanne will remain a member of the Board.

Ms. Spooner, a member of the ASPCA's Board since 2004, most recently served as Vice Chair under Mr. Tanne. Her 16-year Board tenure also included Chairing the Development Committee and the Animal Welfare Committee and serving on committees dedicated to the ASPCA Humane Awards Luncheon and the ASPCA Bergh Ball.

Ms. Spooner assumes this role as the ASPCA continues to lead the animal welfare field in the provision of vital pet food, resources, and veterinary services to pet owners and animals challenged by the impact of COVID-19, including a $5 million commitment to these pandemic response programs since March. So far, more than 270,000 dogs, cats, and horses have been assisted through these nationwide efforts.

"Sally has a deep dedication to both the ASPCA and the cause of animal welfare, as well as a thorough understanding of the ways we can and should adapt to new challenges,” said ASPCA President & CEO Matt Bershadker. “Both the Board and our organization will benefit greatly from Sally’s insight and leadership, and I look forward to working closely with her in this role.”

“Sally has repeatedly shown a strong ability to lead and inspire, and no one is more committed to animals in need, so I’m thrilled to hand off this crucial role to her,” said Mr. Tanne. “She’s the perfect person to see us through a very challenging period and beyond.”

"I’m honored to lead the Board of Directors as the ASPCA approaches its 155th birthday next year," said Ms. Spooner. "These are difficult times for every nonprofit, but the ASPCA has always demonstrated the commitment, compassion, and ingenuity required to ensure vulnerable and victimized animals have a voice and remain protected.”

Ms. Spooner, who was an advertising executive in New York and Chicago, received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Chicago and her Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.