Aired 11/24/2009
COLUMBIA - Dr. Alan Allert finished his first day on the job as the interim Executive Director of the Central Missouri Humane Society.
Allert spent the day conducting interviews and introducing himself to the staff.
“So far, so good,” Allert said. “I didn’t know any of the staff before today.”
Allert had no prior experience working for a humane society. Before taking this position, he worked as a veterinarian and researcher.
“For the last four years, I was a private consultant for Fishing and Wildlife, working on the health of endangered species,” Allert said.
Humane Society board member Ann Korschgen’s husband was Allert’s supervisor at his previous job. Korschgen’s husband suggested Allert for the job.
“I had previously said, if you need help with anything regarding the Humane Society, I’d be happy to do it,” Allert said.
As interim Executive Director, Allert said he wants to work on improving the agency’s adoption policies. He also wants to expand the volunteer base.
“At this point, it’s not about looking backward, but instead looking forward,” Allert said.
The Humane Society board will do a nationwide search to find a permanent Executive Director.
“That process could take a few months,” Korschgen said.
Allert said it is too early for him to consider whether or not he would want to be the permanent executive director of the Central Missouri Humane Society.
