CEO Judy Calhoun to retire after 17 years of transformative leadership
NOCO Humane announced that longtime CEO Judy Calhoun will retire later this year after nearly 17 years of dedicated leadership. Since joining the organization in 2008, Calhoun has led the shelter through remarkable growth and expanded impact across Northern Colorado.
Under Calhoun’s leadership, NOCO Humane (formerly Larimer Humane Society) has become a regional leader in animal welfare. Key accomplishments during her tenure include the successful “Yes on 200” campaign that funded the construction of the state-of-the-art shelter facility in Loveland as well as the expansion of services into Weld County, broadening the organization’s reach and capacity to serve animals. Calhoun also significantly strengthened the organization’s long-term financial health, overseeing a more than 660-percent increase in NOCO Humane’s managed investments. This remarkable resource stewardship has ensured greater financial stability, resilience and capacity to serve both people and animals for years to come.
“Judy’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative,” says Jo Tatti, chair of NOCO Humane’s board of directors. “She has led with expertise, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the animals and people we serve. We are grateful for her years of service, and we are committed to finding
a leader who will honor her legacy and continue moving NOCO Humane forward.”
To ensure a thoughtful and seamless leadership transition, the board of directors has formed a transition committee, led by board member Ena Sawhney, Ph.D., an expert in talent management.
Together with Tatti, the transition committee will conduct a national search for the organization’s next CEO. The search is expected to launch in four-to-six weeks. Calhoun will remain in her role throughout the transition process to support a stable and successful handoff.
“It has been the privilege of my professional life to serve this organization,” Calhoun says. “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together—as a team, as a community and as advocates for animals. I look forward to seeing NOCO Humane continue to grow and thrive in its next chapter.”
Plans to honor Calhoun’s leadership and celebrate her impact will be announced in the coming months.
