The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has promoted Dr. Steven Hansen to chief operating officer, effective today. In his new position, Hansen will oversee all ASPCA program areas, as well as a majority of the New York City-based organization’s infrastructure teams. “Dr. Hansen is an accomplished executive with a strong record of achievements, both with the ASPCA and the animal welfare community at-large,” said ASPCA president & CEO Ed Sayres. “During his 13 years of dedicated service to the ASPCA, Dr. Hansen has become an invaluable resource for the organization and has developed a profound understanding of the issues affecting companion animals in our world today. We look forward to his contributions in this new capacity.” Hansen joined the ASPCA in 1997 as vice president of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center in Urbana, Ill., and most recently served as the ASPCA’s senior vice president of animal health services, a division dedicated to providing pet health and wellness information to pet owners. Under his leadership, the Animal Poison Control Center and Information Technology teams launched in 2000 the AnTox database, a comprehensive animal toxicology database that features more than one million case studies. In addition, with his support, the ASPCA’s Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinics performed more than 30,000 surgeries in 2009, and the Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital served a record-breaking 15,000 pets in New York City, according to the ASPCA. Some of the programs Hansen will oversee as chief operating officer include anti-cruelty initiatives, community outreach, capital projects, human resources, finance and information technology. He will also continue to supervise the animal health services programs. “I’ve always been passionate about the ASPCA’s mission and look forward to serving in this new role,” Hansen said. “The ASPCA’s programs and services provide life-saving support to companion animals in New York City and across the United States, and I’m excited to be part of their future development.” Prior to joining the ASPCA, Hansen was the director of veterinary research and support for Wellmark International. He also practiced clinical medicine in suburban Houston and Chicago. Hansen is certified by the American Board of Toxicology (DABT) and the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology (DABVT), is a member of the National Academies of Practice, and holds an adjunct appointment at the University of Illinois’ College of Veterinary Medicine, according to the ASPCA. In addition, he serves on the Scientific Advisory Committee on Alternative Toxicological Methods, and is treasurer of the Organizing Committee of the American College of Animal Welfare. <HOME>
