Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) has announced the appointment of Nancy Willis as President and Executive Director, effective immediately. Willis, who has served as Interim President since March 2026, will lead the organization as it continues its recovery and rebuilding efforts following a fire that damaged its Milpitas Animal Community Center in December 2024.
Willis joined HSSV in 2023 and quickly became an integral part of the leadership team. During her tenure, she has overseen marketing, spearheaded the planning and execution of The Fur Ball fundraising gala, and most recently guided the organization's response and rebuilding efforts after the fire. Her appointment brings continuity and steady leadership at a critical juncture as HSSV moves forward.
“Nancy has shown the judgment, resilience and collaborative leadership HSSV needs,” said Peter Detkin, Chair of the HSSV Board of Directors. “She understands our organization, and the community we serve, and she has helped guide HSSV through one of the most challenging periods in its history. She is well positioned to lead the organization through its next phase of rebuilding and growth.”
Prior to joining HSSV, Willis began her animal welfare career in 2015 as Director of Development and Marketing at Maui Humane Society. Before transitioning to the nonprofit sector, she spent more than 20 years in professional sports, including 15 years with Major League Baseball. Her extensive background in leadership, marketing, fundraising, and event planning has equipped her to bring teams together around a shared purpose.
“I am deeply honored to lead Humane Society Silicon Valley and grateful for the trust the Board has placed in me,” said Willis. “Over the past three years, I have seen firsthand the passion and dedication of the people who make HSSV what it is. We have an opportunity to build on that strength, deepen our impact and shape a future that reflects the full potential of this organization.”
As President, Willis will guide HSSV through its next phase of rebuilding while strengthening programs, operations, and the organization's long-term ability to serve pets and people throughout the region. HSSV is an independent, privately funded nonprofit that provides adoptions, veterinary care, community programs, and regional rescue partnerships, with a mission to save lives and keep families together.
