Hamilton/Burlington SPCA Board of Directors

Margaret Strecker, Chair

Ms. Strecker is a dedicated animal lover who has also volunteered at the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA, as well as other local cat rescue groups, for many years. Now retired, Ms. Strecker has 25 years of senior management experience in the government and community sectors. “I strongly believe the HBSPCA makes a difference in the lives of animals,” says Ms. Strecker. “But as long as animals are homeless and treated cruelly, we must work diligently to help society see its responsibilities in improving the quality of life for all animals.”

Karen Shea, Vice-Chair

Karen Shea is Crown Counsel with the Office of the Director of Crown Operations (Central West Region). She graduated from the University of Toronto law school in 1991, and has practised in the area of criminal law since her call to the bar in 1993. In addition to her work with the HBSPCA, Karen has been involved with other community non-profit organizations, including Hamilton Health Sciences; St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation, the Children’s Aid Society of Hamilton; the Community Child Abuse Council and the Good Shepherd Centres. Since 1993, Karen and her husband Mike have adopted all of their pets through the Hamilton Burlington SPCA or Labrador Retriever Rescue – Ontario. They have been supporters of the HBSPCA since that time.

Celia Meikle, Treasurer

Ms. Meikle is a chartered accountant with over 20 years of experience and uses her financial expertise to serve the Board of Directors as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee. “It is my fervent view that good governance pushes an organization to achieve its best,” says Ms. Meikle. “Since I share and am committed to the mandate and vision of the HBSPCA, it is my desire to utilize my skills and experience to assist in providing good governance for the organization.”

Maureen Moore, Secretary

Ms. Moore is a long-time volunteer of the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA and is retired from a career in nursing management. Ms. Moore brings many years of governance experience on a municipal, provincial and national level to the HBSPCA Board of Directors. “As a long-time volunteer, I believe I have a grasp of the many issues we face, both on a day-to-day basis and long-term,” says. Ms. Moore. “I hope to play an active role in ensuring our already excellent organization continues to grow and change in exciting and innovative ways.”

Jamie Anderson

Mr. Anderson is a police officer dedicated to law enforcement with over 25 years of experience with the Hamilton Police Service. "As a life-long dog owner and past member of the police K-9 unit, I value and appreciate the many contributions that animals make to all of our lives,” says Mr. Anderson. “I believe that the work of the SPCA is important as it protects the animals that cannot protect themselves."

Melanie deWildt

Ms. deWildt brings marketing and sales expertise to the HBSPCA Board of Directors through her career in pharmaceuticals. A life-long pet owner, Ms. deWildt believes in the value the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA brings to the community for both the animals and humans. “I am fully committed and aligned to the mandate and vision of the organization and I believe the HBSPCA Board has the ability to really make a difference in our community,” says Ms. deWildt. “My background in marketing and sales can add value to the fundraising efforts of the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA which is critical to the continued ability of the SPCA to protect the rights and welfare of animals.”

Annette Hamm

Ms. Hamm is well-known in the community as an anchor for CHCH Morning Live and News Now Midday and is a long-time animal-lover, supporter and volunteer for the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA. Ms. Hamm brings a wealth of community connections and media expertise to the HBSPCA Board of Directors. “I’ve been a volunteer for at least 15 years – starting out as a dog-walker and cat socializer, helping out with fundraising committees and at special events and now on the Board of Directors,” says Ms. Hamm. “I enjoy my service as a Director because I like working together to determine the big picture vision of the shelter’s future.”

Sherry Macfarlane

Now retired, Ms. Macfarlane worked for many years in child protection. Volunteerism has always been an important part of Ms. Macfarlane’s life, with animals a particular passion. “Working in child welfare has made me more aware of issues related to the needs of animals in our community and continuing the work that needs to be done on their behalf,” says Ms. Macfarlane. “It’s important to me to be a contributing member of an organization that takes the lead in working at various community levels to promote prevention of cruelty, healthy and beneficial human/animal relationships and compassion and respect for all living things.”

Dr. John McKenzie

Dr. McKenzie has been caring for animals at his local veterinary practice since 1988. He is an advocate for the humane and ethical treatment of all animal and enjoys helping the HBSPCA make a difference in their lives. Dr. McKenzie has a special interest in the management of pain in animals. Dr. McKenzie has participated in helping various groups concerned about animal welfare in the community.

Dr. Michael Mogavero

Dr. Mogavero is a clinical veterinarian with small and large animal experience. This term is his second as a board member and is the current past chair. Dr. Mogavero has also served a regional Councillor for the College of Veterinarians of Ontario. Over the years he has made contributions to the society in the areas of animal cruelty, shelter and clinic management. His goal is to ensure that the society continues to serve and lead our community in the areas of animal welfare, education and cruelty prevention. 

Bernie Morelli

Councillor Morelli is Hamilton City Council's representative on the Board of Directors. Councillor Morelli graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Business Administration Degree. Councillor Morelli is retired from Dofasco Inc. after 25 years of service, where he served as Senior Manager - Market and Product Development. As well, Councillor Morelli was a Lecturer in Business Management at McMaster University for 18 years. Councillor Morelli was first elected to public office as a Trustee for Ward 3 at the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board in 1988. In 1991, Councillor Morelli was elected as City Councillor for Ward 3 at the City of Hamilton, and was re-elected in 1994, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2006 and 2010. Councillor Morelli currently sits on 17 Agencies, Boards and Commissions and has been involved with many community organizations over the years including the International Children's Games, CANUSA, St. John Ambulance, St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation, Catholic Youth Organization, Good Shepherd, Green Growth for Schizophrenia.