Meet Our Team
Behind every rescued animal, every second chance, and every happy adoption is a team of dedicated individuals who truly care.
At the SPCA of Luzerne County, our staff brings together a variety of talents, experiences, and backgrounds, but we all share one common purpose: making a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them.
We invite you to meet the compassionate people who make our mission possible every day!
Todd H.
Executive Director - 12 Years with the SPCA
About Todd:
I have always had a deep affection for animals of all kinds. Many years ago, an opportunity presented itself to enter the field of animal welfare, and I embraced it wholeheartedly. It afforded me the opportunity to join the ranks of the many passionate, and dedicated individuals who came before me and devoted themselves to advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
We take our responsibility as the “Voice for the Voiceless” very seriously. Those of us who have chosen this path recognize that our work represents something much larger than any one individual or organization. It is a commitment to a greater purpose—one rooted in compassion, service, and the belief that the well-being of animals is intrinsically connected to the health, safety, and welfare of the communities we serve. Through our direct service to animals and the people who care for them, we strive to advance that mission every day.
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My wife and I are the proud pet parents of three beautiful Pit Bulls. Over the years, we have been fortunate enough to open our home and hearts to eight Pit Bulls, each of whom has left an indelible mark on our lives. We have always had a special affection for the “underdog” and a soft spot for those who may be misunderstood or overlooked. These incredible animals have enriched our lives in ways that words cannot adequately express. They have taught us invaluable lessons about unconditional love, loyalty, resilience, and compassion. They haven't simply been pets; they have been family, and our lives are immeasurably better because of them.
Bernis E.
Business Director - 18+ Years with the SPCA
About Bernis:
I have always believed in the work of non-profits and it has been a joy to fall in love so many furry souls over the years. I have shared my office with the most amazing cats. I actually like people as well as animals… LOL and there are no better people anywhere than the ones I have come to consider my family during my years here.
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I have adopted two feral kittens, now 16 (Moof) and 13 (Zeee). While my kids were young I had a sewing business out of my home. My favorite recent sewing project was designing and making my daughter’s wedding dress.
I have way too many pieces of fabric, antique buttons, pretty little scissors, purses, clothes, dishes, jewelry… oh and pairs of eye glasses.
Danielle C.
Director of Development | 2 Years with the SPCA
About Danielle:
My love for animals began at a very young age. From helping turtles safely cross busy roads to bringing home animals in need and advocating for animal welfare around the world, protecting those without a voice has always been a part of who I am.
With a background in communications, marketing, and design, I'm fortunate to combine my professional experience with my lifelong passion for animal welfare. A large part of my role involves grant writing, building relationships with donors and community partners, and sharing the SPCA's story, mission, and vision for our New Hope Shelter Campus.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping turn that vision into reality, securing resources and developing meaningful programs that not only protect animals but also support the people and families who love them.
For me, working at the SPCA is more than a career. It's an opportunity to turn a lifelong passion into a purpose and help build a brighter future for animals in our community.
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In 2001, my brother-in-law was serving overseas during the war in Afganistan. The first week there an emaciated and scruffy white pup wandered onto his squadron's site. The soldiers quickly took him in, and that little dog became a source of comfort and companionship during an incredibly difficult time.
When I heard about him, I couldn't help but get involved. Along with sending care packages to the young soldiers, I began shipping dog food, supplies, and anything the puppy needed, including medical necessities. The updates and photos of this little dog brought me so much joy.
But as the soldiers prepared to return home, I couldn't stop thinking about one thing: What would happen to the dog they were leaving behind?
I was determined not to let his story end there.
What followed was one of the most challenging rescue efforts I had ever undertaken. Working with international animal welfare organizations, including IFAW and the Humane Society of the United States, I helped coordinate his transport to a temporary quarantine facility, arranged veterinary care, and ultimately secured a flight to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
I shared his story with the public, and this little puppy who had wandered into the lives of our soldiers thousands of miles away finally found a loving American family of his own.
From a war-torn country to a safe, loving home in Pennsylvania.
That experience has stayed with me all these years. It reminds me that compassion knows no borders and that sometimes making a difference means refusing to accept that something cannot be done.
It's not just what I do. It's who I've always been. And it's why being part of the SPCA means so much to me.
Carol A.
Volunteer Coordinator - 5 Years with the SPCA
About Carol:
I began my journey with the SPCA of Luzerne County as a volunteer many years ago, never imagining that one day I would have the opportunity to turn my love for animals into a career. At a transitional time in my life, I was fortunate enough to be offered a role that has become so much more than just a job.
I've always believed that animals and children are among the most vulnerable in our society because they often cannot speak for themselves. Being able to advocate for animals who have been abandoned, neglected, or simply forgotten is something that means so much to me.
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is watching an animal who has spent months, or even years, waiting in our shelter finally to leave with a family of their own. Those moments remind me why we do what we do.
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Carol has a special place in her heart for senior dogs, especially bulldogs! Over the years, she has opened her home to several SPCA rescues, but one particular foster turned into quite the surprise.
Carol brought home a rescued bulldog to foster, never imagining that she was expecting puppies. One day, much to everyone's surprise, the bulldog gave birth right on Carol's couch! Carol and her mom, Marsha, lovingly cared for the unexpected little family, making sure the puppies were healthy, happy, and eventually placed in loving homes.
Since then, Carol has continued opening her heart and home to animals in need.
As our Volunteer Coordinator, Carol loves connecting with people who share her passion for animals. She also works as a bartender and waitress on the side, which is no surprise to anyone who knows how much she enjoys being around people!
For Carol, whether she's caring for a senior rescue, welcoming volunteers, or making someone smile, it's all about helping others and making a difference.
Amy R.
Adoption Specialist - 14 Years with SPCA
About Amy:
My love for animals began in childhood, when I dreamed of one day becoming a veterinarian. Although my path led me to the SPCA, my passion for helping animals has never changed.
What I love most about my work is being a voice for animals who cannot speak for themselves. Every adoption, foster placement, and transfer to a rescue partner represents another chance at a better life. Knowing that I play a part in helping these animals find the love, care, and happiness they deserve is what makes my job so rewarding.
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Outside of the SPCA, I'm a proud mom to a wonderful 19-year-old daughter and share my home with several beloved pets, all adopted from the shelter. My family, both two-legged and four-legged, brings so much happiness to my life and reminds me every day why giving animals a second chance is so important.
