Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) announced today the appointment of Nancy Willis as President and Executive Director, a role she has held on an interim basis since March 2026. The decision, made by the HSSV Board of Directors, brings permanent leadership to the organization as it continues its recovery from a devastating fire in December 2024.
Willis has been part of HSSV's leadership team since joining in 2023. In her three years at the organization, she has overseen marketing, led the planning and execution of The Fur Ball fundraising gala, and most recently guided HSSV's response and rebuilding efforts following the fire at its Milpitas Animal Community Center. Her appointment comes at a critical juncture, as the organization prepares for the next phase of its rebuild and expansion.
"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."
Willis's background includes more than 20 years in professional sports, including 15 years with Major League Baseball, before transitioning to animal welfare in 2015 as Director of Development and Marketing at Maui Humane Society. Her experience spans leadership, marketing, fundraising, and event planning, skills she has already applied at HSSV to strengthen its operations and community engagement.
"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."
The announcement is significant for the Bay Area community, as HSSV is an independent, privately funded nonprofit that provides adoptions, veterinary care, community programs, and regional rescue partnerships. The organization's ability to recover and grow directly affects its capacity to save lives and keep families together, making stable leadership essential. Willis's familiarity with the organization and her proven leadership during crisis provide reassurance to supporters and partners that HSSV is on a solid path forward.
As President, Willis will focus on guiding the rebuild of the Milpitas facility, strengthening programs and operations, and ensuring the organization can continue to serve pets and people across the region. Her appointment signals continuity and a forward-looking approach, as HSSV aims to emerge from this difficult chapter with renewed purpose and impact.
