Cheers to the Chair: July Winner
Andrea Marconi, board chair Arizona Humane Society
Why do you support the Arizona Humane Society?
I believe it’s critical to speak up and care for the thousands of sick, injured and homeless animals that can’t speak for themselves, and AHS does just this. I’m constantly amazed by the innovation, excellence and compassion that all of the Arizona Humane Society staff and volunteers exhibit on a daily basis. AHS even saved the lives of some of my own four-legged family members — Maggie May, the boxer, who was found as an emaciated stray and nursed back to health, and Greta, our boxer mix, who was abandoned as part of a litter. Without AHS, I wouldn’t have found these girls, and the same is true for thousands of families throughout Arizona.
How long have you supported the organization?
I’ve supported AHS in one way or another for more than 15 years as a donor, adopter and foster volunteer. In 2012, I started working on the AHS committee that puts on the organization’s signature fundraiser each year, Compassion With Fashion, and then co-chaired that event in 2014. I joined the board of directors in 2013, where I have held numerous leadership positions, including chair of the governance committee and vice-chair. In 2018, I was elected to chair the board of directors.
What would people be surprised to learn about AHS?
AHS just celebrated its 62nd anniversary and has done incredible work throughout its history. But in the last five years, AHS has led the effort to create truly transformational change in the Valley. Not long ago, Maricopa County was one of the worst places to be a homeless or vulnerable pet, and now it is becoming one of the best. Intake and euthanasia rates have decreased drastically, and more pets are finding homes with loving families than ever before. But AHS isn’t satisfied and always keeps growing and finding new ways to save lives. I would love to have you visit one of AHS’s facilities at the Sunnyslope Campus or the Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion to see this lifesaving work in action.
Favorite movie:
“Top Gun.” Such a fun movie with great music (and men in flightsuits). Who could ask for more?
Favorite restaurant in Arizona?
Uncle Sal’s Italian Restaurant. The home-style Italian comfort food brings me back to my roots and reminds me of family.
Favorite place to travel:
The Caribbean islands.
Proudest accomplishment:
My two sons, Taylor and Brady, are my everything. I wear a number of different hats, as we all do — wife, lawyer, philanthropist, daughter, etc. — but my “mom” hat gives me the greatest pride and joy by far. I particularly love how my boys are developing into strong, but compassionate young men who care for the world and others around them, including the animals!
azhumane.org
