Fresh Faces, Same Heart
Welcoming FoDACC’s New Board Members — and Celebrating the Leaders Who Paved the Way
Friends of Detroit Animal Care and Control (FoDACC) thrives on people power. Every new idea, community program, and life-saving adoption trace back to volunteers and board members who pour their time, talents, and love into Detroit’s pets. Today we’re thrilled to introduce three passionate animal advocates joining our board—and to shower long-overdue thanks on several dedicated leaders whose terms are ending (but whose FoDACC spirit lives on).
Tonya Smith
Director of Humane Education
From grooming tables to classrooms to community events, Tonya Smith lives and breathes animal education. Over 15 years—four of them devoted almost full-time—she’s taught families across Detroit how to care for, understand, and truly see their pets. Tonya owns LC’s Detroit Pet Salon, recently founded LC’s Foundation, and brings deep leadership chops from both small-business ownership and corporate America. Most importantly, she believes that knowledge creates kindness:
“When we can educate others we are shaping that person to better care and understand what their pets need, and we can give them the help and resources they need.”
Tonya’s passion, approachable style, and commitment to diversity will help FoDACC reach even more neighborhoods with engaging, judgment-free programming.
Julia Simon
Director of Foster Placement
Ask Julia what she thinks about all day, and she’ll tell you: thinking about animals who need a safe place to land. Empathy is her superpower—and she pairs it with organization, team spirit, and natural leadership (she’s coached sports, works as a service coordinator, and, as the eldest sibling, has been “in charge” her whole life). Julia can’t wait to:
Recruit and mentor new volunteers
Spread the word so even more Detroiters open their homes to animals in need
“There is only so much I can do on my own and to be surrounded with like minded people is how we WILL make a difference.”
Lauren Stuglin
Director of Adoption Events & Dog Promotion
If you’ve ever spotted FoDACC pups charming crowds at community events, chances are Lauren helped make it happen. A long-time member of our Community Outreach Committee (and full-time probation officer managing 150+ cases!), she’s a pro at logistics, promotion, and keeping dogs front-and-center. Lauren plans to:
Expand adoption events to new businesses and neighborhoods
Boost visibility for overlooked pups who just need a chance
“Shelter dogs have been a passion of mine for many years. I am passionate about getting our dogs the visibility they deserve and placing them in homes they will thrive in.”
With Gratitude Beyond Words
FoDACC wouldn’t be what it is today without the passion, vision, and countless late nights of three outgoing board members—all of whom will still be part of FoDACC:
Rachael Prenkert, President – Steered us through growth, challenges, and an unprecedented insurance hurdle with grace and grit.
Tamra Talmadge-Andersen, Community Engagement Director – The creative force behind adoption events that matched hundreds of dogs with forever families.
Emily Ceder, Placement Outreach Director – Built a foster network that turned kennels into couches for so many pets.
We’re also grateful to Roberta Sierra—our tireless Vice President and Director of Volunteer Retention—who will serve as Interim President while the board completes its leadership transition.
Rachael, Tamra, Emily, and Roberta: your dedication has saved lives, inspired volunteers, and set a shining example for every new leader who steps up. From the bottom of thousands of wagging tails—thank you.
Your Seat at the Table Is Open
Do you have skills you’re ready to share and a heart for Detroit’s animals? FoDACC is still seeking:
Director of Fundraising
Director of Communications
Co-Director of Foster Placement
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic learner, we’d love to talk. Board members commit to monthly meetings, collaborative projects, and a shared mission: creating a safer, kinder Detroit for pets and people alike.
Interested? Please complete our application.
