The Board of Directors of the Humane Society of Catawba County (HSCC) has concluded the independent investigation into leadership and operational concerns raised by former employees, community members, and other stakeholders. The Board initiated the investigation in April in response to personal accounts shared publicly and through a dedicated online feedback forum.

On Wednesday, June 4, the Board convened to listen to a presentation on the findings of the investigation. The investigation was conducted and results presented by the law firm Jackson Lewis, based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Following the review, and based on the information provided, the Board voted to terminate the employment of Executive Director Jane Bowers, who had been on administrative leave since the beginning of the investigation.

While the organization begins the process of identifying new leadership, Director of Clinical Services Emily Buckland will oversee day-to-day operations. The Board will immediately begin a search for an interim Executive Director, followed by a formal recruitment process for a permanent Executive Director to lead HSCC into its next chapter.

In light of the Board’s decision regarding organizational leadership, Board member Jodi Buckland voluntarily resigned from the Board as of last evening’s meeting.

Importantly, the investigation found no evidence of animal abuse occurring at the Humane Society of Catawba County. The Board remains confident in the quality of animal care being provided by the dedicated staff and volunteers of HSCC.

“This process has been taken with the utmost seriousness and care,” said the Board of Directors in a joint statement. “Every decision made has been guided by our mission: to protect and advocate for the animals in our care, and to foster a supportive, respectful environment for the people who carry out that work every day.”

The Board also expressed its appreciation to those in the community who shared their experiences during this process and reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and continuous improvement.

“Our focus now is on healing, rebuilding trust, and ensuring that the Humane Society of Catawba County remains a place of compassion, professionalism, and integrity—for both animals and people.”

For continued updates and opportunities to engage in HSCC’s mission, community members are encouraged to visit www.catawbahumane.org.

Humane Society of Catawba County is open to viewing animals by appointment only. Please submit your adoption application below. Once our staff has had an opportunity to review your application they will reach out to you by email to schedule an appointment.