Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) has announced the appointment of Nancy Willis as President & Executive Director, effective immediately. Willis, who has served as Interim President since March 2026, brings a blend of nonprofit leadership and extensive experience in marketing and fundraising to the role.
Willis joined HSSV in 2023 and quickly became an integral part of the leadership team. Over the past three years, she has overseen marketing, led the planning and execution of The Fur Ball fundraising gala, and most recently guided the organization's response and rebuilding efforts following the December 2024 fire at its Milpitas Animal Community Center. Her steady hand during that crisis has been widely credited with helping HSSV navigate one of the most challenging periods in its history.
"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 moving into the nonprofit sector, she spent more than 20 years in professional sports, including 15 years with Major League Baseball. Her background includes extensive experience in leadership, marketing, fundraising, event planning and bringing 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 the next phase of its rebuild while strengthening its programs, operations and long-term ability to serve pets and people throughout the region. Her appointment signals a commitment to continuity and stability as the organization looks to the future.
Humane Society Silicon Valley is an independent, privately funded nonprofit organization serving pets and people throughout the Bay Area. Through adoptions, veterinary care, community programs, regional rescue partnerships and resources that help families remain together, HSSV works to save lives, keep families together and create a better future for pets and their people. For more information, visit hssv.org.
