Management
- Elizabeth Kirwin, Executive Director, 970-264-5549
- Alex Denyer, Shelter Manager, 970-731-4771
- Cindy Chomey, Thrift Store Manager, 970-264-6424
- Noelle Klehr, Events Manager, 970-264-5549
We are seeking passionate, community-minded individuals to join our Board of Directors. Learn more.
Board of Directors
James (Jeb) Baxter, President
Service started in 2021, Treasurer 2023-2024, Board President 2025
Retired Professor of Geology/Physical Science
Jeb joined HSPS in 2021 as a cat socialization volunteer, earning the nickname “Cat Whisperer” for his exceptional ability to connect with shy felines. A retired geologist and former chief academic officer at Pennsylvania’s oldest community college, Jeb also supports the Thrift Store by testing electronics. His dedication to HSPS shines in his care for animals and attention to detail.
Valarie Groves, Treasurer, Finance Committee Chair
Service started in 2021, Board Member 2024, Board Treasurer 2025
Self-employed FP&A Consultant
Valarie’s journey with HSPS began with fostering kittens, which soon turned into adoptions. A semi-retired corporate finance professional, she joined the HSPS board in 2023. Valarie is dedicated to animal welfare and creating loving homes for every pet, all while managing her own growing family of furry friends.
Michael Moffitt, Secretary
Service started in 2022, Board Member 2025, Board Secretary 2025
Retired Physician
A retired physician with a diverse career spanning education, IT, sales, and hospice care, Michael has always shared his life with animals. Married to a veterinarian, he volunteers as a dog walker and assists the HSPS Thrift Store by testing electronics, reflecting his lifelong passion for animal care.
Lynn Kleiman, Board Member
Service started in 2023, Board Member 2025
Retired Oracle Financial Consultant
Lynn brings her dedication to animal welfare and prior experience with the Boulder Humane Society. Since moving to Pagosa Springs, she has volunteered as a dog walker and fundraiser for HSPS, focusing on building confidence in shelter dogs. A passionate advocate for animals, she dreams of one day creating a sanctuary for those in need.
Greg Waltz, Board Member
Service started in January 2026
Greg owned and ran a commercial insurance agency in Deerfield Beach Florida for 20 plus years. He is an active fundraiser and has served as a volunteer fireman for 10 years.
Lynn Feragen, Board Member
Service started in July 2026
Lynn is retired from a career an intermediate school teacher teaching science, math, social studies, and bilingual (ESL). Prior to teaching, Lynn was a licensed insurance adjuster and worked in the insurance industry for six years. She has a lifetime love of animals including raising and rescuing birds and dogs.
Mary Tighe, Board Member
Service started in August 2026
Mary has lived in Pagosa Springs off and on for over twenty years, loves animals, and has a local pet sitting business. She is skilled in marketing, sales, public relations, fundraising and community development.
To contact any of our dedicated board members, please complete this form.
The Board of Directors is chosen by election at the annual meeting of the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs. The supervision, direction and management of the affairs of the Society shall be vested in the Board. More specifically, board members will:
- Determine and uphold the organization’s mission following the organization’s bylaws.
- Hire, monitor, and, if necessary, dismiss the employees who report directly to the Board.
- Review the performance of the employees who report directly to the Board.
- Ensure ongoing organization planning, including approving long-range goals.
- Ensure adequate resources – financial and human.
- Establish fiscal policies, financial controls, and annual budgets that ensure the effective management of resources.
- Set and monitor overall goals and services.
- Serve as a link to the community – promoting the work of the organization and interpreting the needs of the community.
- Annually assess the performance of the organization and the Board.
And commit to:
- A two-year term
- At least nine meetings of the Board per year
- Annual donors to the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs