Board of Directors
Desirae Kennington
President
Desirae Kennington is an accomplished marketing and business leader with nearly 20 years of experience driving organizational growth through strategic marketing, communications, branding, event planning, fundraising, and people leadership. As Vice President of Experiences at Seventh Wave Refreshments, she oversees marketing and human resources, creating engaging experiences for employees, customers, and the communities the company serves. Desirae's connection to TLC Humane Society began in 2012 as a volunteer after her employer selected the organization as the beneficiary of a community event. Inspired by the mission, she became deeply involved in fundraising and organizational development before joining the Board of Directors in 2014. After serving as Fundraising Chair and Vice President, she was elected Board President in 2016.
Susan Russell
TREAsURER
Susan Russell has 37 years of experience in administration & accounting for Ryder Transportation including 10 years as manager of their Financial Reporting Department. After retiring in 2011, she joined the TLC Board of Directors in February 2013, served as Secretary until 2015, then added role of Treasurer. Susan served as Secretary and Treasurer through 2018, continuing as Treasurer and taking on the role of Fundraising Chair in January 2019. Susan is the head of fundraising and through her work we have brought in tens of thousands of dollars over the years to care for animals who have made their way to TLC. She keeps a close eye on our financials ensuring we are always set for success and keeps us aiming for the next big step in TLC’s story.
Abigail Camilleri
Secretary
Abigail Camilleri is the owner of Local Pup, a dog boutique in downtown Dahlonega dedicated to helping dogs and their people enjoy life together. Through her business, she has built strong relationships within the local community while advocating for responsible pet ownership, enrichment, and animal well-being.A lifelong animal lover, Abigail joined the TLC Humane Society Board of Directors to combine her passion for dogs with her experience in marketing, branding, and small business development. She enjoys using her background to support community outreach, fundraising initiatives, and creative marketing efforts that help further TLC's mission. Abigail is passionate about creating meaningful connections between people and animals and is committed to helping TLC Humane Society continue to grow its impact throughout the community.
Gayle Gannaway
Vice President
Gayle Gannaway has over 40 years of experience in finance, accounting and information technology. In her career she managed personnel, large projects, and developed training documentation. Working for small companies and large corporations, she developed management and organizational skills, mentored individuals, and served in many leadership roles. Gayle joined the TLC Board of Directors in 2010 and served as the Treasurer until 2015 and then took on the role of Vice President in 2016. Her experience in leadership roles and mentoring makes Gayle a wonderful mediator and ensures our decisions are well thought out before implementation.
Marcia Engel
board member
Marcia Engel brings many years of leadership and management experience from her professional career to TLC. Since she has retired, Marcia has spent several years volunteering at TLC by walking dogs, socializing animals, working on dog playgroups, and assisting our Animal Caregivers when they need help. This has given her very valuable knowledge of how the shelter runs day to day and she has a wonderful relationship with our Animal Caregivers. She is very passionate about the safety and wellbeing our of animals. Marcia also assists in fundraiser efforts and ensures we continue to improve the lives of animals who find their way to our shelter.