PAWS Appoints Harrison Edell As New Chief Executive Officer

R. Harrison Edell has been appointed chief executive officer of PAWS, taking the helm as the animal welfare nonprofit enters a critical phase of strategic growth following the opening of its $50 million Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.

Edell brings over two decades of experience in animal welfare, conservation, and nonprofit management. Most recently, he served as chief mission officer and executive vice president of Animal Care & Conservation at the Dallas Zoo, where he led departments in animal care, conservation, education, operations and public engagement. His career also includes leadership and education roles at the Sacramento Zoo, San Francisco Zoo, and San Diego Zoo Global.

As CEO, Edell will guide PAWS through the implementation of its 2025–2028 strategic objectives and lead long-term planning for its Lynnwood campus and programs.

“PAWS has long been a leader in compassionate animal care, wildlife rehabilitation and community engagement,” said Edell. “I’m honored to join this dedicated team and to work alongside our donors, volunteers and community partners to advance the mission and impact of PAWS. On the heels of the grand opening of our $50M Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, I look forward to diving into our plans for the future, turning our eye towards long-range planning for our facilities in Lynnwood.”

Throughout his career, Edell has worked across disciplines including wildlife rehabilitation, strategic planning, project management, and educational programming. He is recognized for combining hands-on experience with high-level organizational leadership to advance both mission and operational success.

“Harrison brings a rare combination of strategic vision with a pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach and passion for animal welfare,” said Jen Evans, chair of the PAWS board of directors. “We are energized by his leadership and look forward to the transformative impact he will have on PAWS and the animals who depend on us.”

A Seattle-area resident with two senior rescue dogs, Edell will begin his tenure by meeting with staff, volunteers, supporters, and community partners. His leadership comes at a pivotal time as PAWS builds on recent infrastructure investments and expands its reach across animal care, education, and advocacy.

Founded in 1967, PAWS—Progressive Animal Welfare Society—is a nonprofit dedicated to helping cats, dogs and wild animals go home and thrive. The organization rehabilitates orphaned and injured wildlife, shelters homeless pets, and promotes compassionate action through education and advocacy. PAWS serves thousands of animals annually throughout the Pacific Northwest.