The Kansas Humane Society is pleased to announce the appointment of Aaron Walker as the organization’s next President/CEO, effective March 1, 2023.
"I am so excited to be joining the team at the Kansas Humane Society as President/CEO, beginning on March 1, 2023. I grew up spending time on family farms and my parents made sure pets were always part of our family (dogs, cats, ducks, geese, fish, etc.). As a husband to Jen (my wife of 22 years) and father to our 2 kids, Forrest (13) and Cora (10), we’ve continued the tradition of having animals as a part of our family. Right now, we have a 14-year-old, epileptic Australian Terrier (think 30 lb. Yorkie) named Foster and life wouldn’t be the same without him. I also love that my family shares a passion for this work and animals; we have all volunteered for the Kansas Humane Society since 2021, though it's mostly been Jen with the kids over the last year while I worked.
I have served in several nonprofits over the last 20 years, starting in child welfare and behavioral health and then moving on to health and human service organizations, most recently at Cairn Health in Wichita. I am excited to bring this vast array of experiences to the Kansas Humane Society where I am honored to be joining a dedicated and caring Executive Team.
When I’m not working, I like to spend time with my family, watching movies (I have also worked as a film critic and have 200+ published film reviews) reading, drawing, or connecting with friends to play games. I value honesty and integrity at my core and I’m looking forward to sharing my passion for our work at the Kansas Humane Society with the community, as we continue to enhance services and build a culture of socially responsible animal care throughout Wichita and beyond."
Walker has more than 20 years of experience in leadership and fundraising roles for non-profit organizations. Walker plans to spend his first several months in the role strengthening his understanding of all areas of the Kansas Humane Society while communicating with staff, volunteers, donors and community supporters.
Dr. Melanie Summers, Board Chair of the Kansas Humane Society, says she and the rest of the Board of Directors are very pleased to have Aaron Walker join the team as the next President/CEO. “Aaron is an experienced leader of non-profit organizations and will create a renewed passion for animal welfare in our community through his proven ability to cultivate relationships and implement innovative strategies.”