All current members of the Texas Animal Control Association are entitled to vote for the Board of Directors that leads the Association. Ballots must be submitted by 11:59 PM on Friday, November 15th to be counted. Validity of any questionable ballot will be determined by the Nomination Committee of the Texas Animal Control Association Board of Directors and their decision is final.
If you are unable to register to vote, your membership is likely listed as lapsed in the system. Only current Certified and Honorary Members have voting rights. Please click here to obtain or renew your membership. If you feel there is a mistake in the system, please email Al Garces so that corrections can be made.
Board of Director Candidates
President Candidates (One Position Available)
Jamey Cantrell
I have been involved in animal welfare for since 1995, beginning as a Kennel Technician at the Humane Society of North Texas where I worked my way up to the Director of Shelter Operations. I have since managed Animal Services programs in Lubbock, Bedford, and have been in Plano since 2007. I've served on the TACA Board in various positions since 2008 and have worked during each legislative session in that time to help pass laws that can help ACOs all over the state work more efficiently while also opposing laws that hinder the daily operations of animal care and control personnel. As TACA's President, I plan to continue working towards getting ACOs recognized as first responders while strengthening our standing with legislators so that our jobs are not made more difficult than they already are. I will also work to ensure that our Association remains faithful to its original mission of being for Texas Animal Control Officers and other animal welfare professionals and will resist outside influences who may care more about advancing their own agendas than doing what's best for TACA.
Kelly Thyssen
Kelly is a dedicated animal welfare professional with 19 years of experience across various areas of the field, including animal control, public health, and veterinary programs in both private and shelter settings. In 2014, Kelly founded *Humane Educators of Texas*, an organization focused on enhancing the education and resources available to professionals in the animal welfare industry. Additionally, Kelly co-founded *Humane H.E.L.P.*, a nonprofit that provides peer support and mental health resources specifically designed for animal welfare professionals. Kelly's mission is to raise awareness of the mental health challenges faced by those in the field, increase available resources, and ultimately elevate the standards of training, care and support within the profession.
Vice President Candidates (One Position Available)
Edward Cruz
I have been on the TACA Board for the last 6 years. I have tried my best to grow and use my knowledge and skills to help the organization in any capacity that I can. I would like your vote and support to continue to help and grow with TACA.
Ethel Strother
My name is Ethel Strother and I would like to ask for your support as the Vice President of the Texas Animal Control Association. I have sat on the board for 17 years and I have served the board in many capacities, including Past President. If elected as Vice President I would continue to support all animal care and control officers that serve in this challenging field. I currently work with THLN to help strengthen the current laws that help us and the animals do our job. I have more than 20 years as an instructor and work with other municipalities and counties in cruelty investigations. I also serve as a disaster responder with Animal Investigations and Response. It has and always will be my goal to assist this organization and its members in any way that I can. Thank you for your support.
Executive Officer Candidate (One Position Available)
Rhonda McLendon
Rhonda McLendon has been serving as Director of Pflugerville Animal Welfare Services and Pflugerville Animal Shelter since 2013. She has worked in municipal government for over 36 years, and in the Animal Services field for 21 years. She retired from the City of Lufkin after serving 25 years in different capacities, including Communications Operator, Police Officer, City Marshal, Municipal Court Administrator, and ten years as Director of Animal Control and Kurth Memorial Animal Shelter.
McLendon worked with K-9 Officers early in her law enforcement career, and began learning canine body language at that time. She saw more than 65,000 animals come through the shelter in her tenure as Director with City of Lufkin, and learned much more about feline and canine body language. She was daily exposed to feral dogs and cats, fearful and fractious animals, and animals with behavior issues and began fine tuning her knowledge with thousands of hands on experiences and observing interactions between animals. She has her Master Peace Officer’s License and Advanced and Administrative ACO Certificates. Pflugerville Police Department carries her peace officer’s license, and McLendon teaches police officers and police cadets Canine Encounters-Defensive Tactics as well as teaching Canine and Feline Body Language and Communication locally, and at conferences and training seminars across the state. She has served on the board of Texas Animal Control Association for five years.
Director Candidates (Five Positions Available)
Kendall Bradley
Kendall started her animal career in the equine industry in 2014 working as a Trainer and Barn Manager and eventually working as a Manager for US Olympian Tamra Smith. After that role, she changed paths to combine her love for animals and desire to follow in the footsteps of her law enforcement family and became an Animal Care Officer for the city of San Antonio. She continued her career in Animal Control in Portland Texas, and currently serves as the Manager of Nueces County Animal Services. Kendall is also proud to be a Reserve Responder with HSUS.
Kendall truly found her passion in this industry, and has a vested interest in supporting in animal care and control through the unique challenges that many industry professionals face. She is a firm believer in advocating for legislation, access to care, an better safety practices for ACO's.
Dr. Antonio L. Caldwell
Dr. Antonio L. Caldwell is a distinguished professional with a wide range of expertise spanning finance, operations, business management, public health, and animal welfare. With a deep-rooted passion for his community and a commitment to making a positive impact, Dr. Caldwell has been an active leader in various sectors in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) for over 15 years.
As the Deputy Director of the Department of Health, Wellness, and Animal Services for the City of Brownsville, Dr. Caldwell plays a vital role in ensuring the community's well-being. His compassionate approach, combined with his diverse professional background, enables him to make informed decisions and develop innovative programs that prompt health initiatives and improve animal welfare within the city.
In addition to his work in Public Health, Dr. Caldwell serves on the board of directors for the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, where he contributes to the growth and development of the local business community. Drawing on his diverse leadership experience in finance, operations, and business management, he offers valuable insights and strategic guidance to support economic prosperity and foster collaborative partnerships among businesses in Brownsville.
Dr. Caldwell's dedication to his community extends beyond his professional roles. He actively seeks out opportunities to serve and make a positive impact in the RGV. His unwavering commitment to community development has led him to engage in various volunteer activities, philanthropic endeavors, and mentorship programs, all aimed at empowering individuals and fostering a thriving and inclusive community.
Having called the RGV home for over 15 years, Dr. Caldwell possesses a deep understanding and appreciation for the region's unique culture, challenges, and opportunities. His long-term connection to the community fuels his passion for creating a better future for its residents, and he eagerly looks forward to continuing to serve in any way possible.
Dr. Antonio L. Caldwell's diverse leadership background, combined with his passion for his community, animal welfare, and economic growth, makes him a highly respected and influential figure in the Rio Grande Valley. Through his collaborative approach, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication, he continues to make a lasting impact on both the business landscape and the lives of individuals in the RGV and beyond.
January Dugan
January Dugan is a dedicated Animal Control Officer with over a decade of hands-on experience across various Texas cities and counties, including Kirby, Hondo, Bexar County and now Alamo Heights. Her passion for animal care and community service has driven her to achieve remarkable outcomes, including a 10% reduction in care costs within her first year at Alamo Heights. Throughout her career, January has successfully placed over 1,000 animals, demonstrating her commitment to giving every creature a second chance at a loving home.
A veteran of the Army, January served as a combat medic during a 15-month tour in Iraq, bringing her strong discipline and leadership skills to her role in animal control. She has also implemented vital training sessions focused on officer safety and implemented multiple local public programs, such as low-cost spay and neuter initiatives and a pet pantry program, during her time in the City of Hondo.
Balancing her professional achievements, January is a proud mother of six and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business management. Her unique blend of practical experience and academic ambition equips her with the knowledge needed to drive innovative solutions in animal welfare and community engagement. With her unwavering dedication to both her family and her career, January continues to make a significant impact in her field.
Jacob Jimenez
Sergeant Jimenez is a dedicated public servant who has been with the Portland Police Department for over 8 years. As the head of both Animal Control and Code Enforcement, Sergeant Jimenez plays a crucial role in maintaining community safety and well-being. With a background in criminal justice and a deep commitment to animal welfare, Sergeant Jimenez oversees the enforcement of local ordinances related to animal care and public codes.
Cathy Le
My name is Cathy Le, and I am an experienced professional with a strong foundation in biology and public health, coupled with a deep passion for animal welfare. From a young age, I aspired to work with animals, and this passion has guided my career path, allowing me to merge my interests in animal care and advocacy with strategic marketing and community outreach.
My journey in animal welfare is rooted in a lifelong dedication to promoting the health and well-being of animals. I have served in key leadership roles within a reputable animal shelter, where I managed daily operations, upheld rigorous animal care standards, and led teams of devoted staff and volunteers. My leadership has been instrumental in enhancing shelter operations, implementing innovative animal welfare programs, and ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations. At my most recent role with City of Waxahachie Animal Services, I spearheaded initiatives that significantly increased adoption rates, improved the overall quality of animal care, and fostered stronger community involvement.
Complementing my expertise in animal welfare is a robust background in marketing and community outreach. I have successfully designed and executed comprehensive marketing campaigns that raised awareness about critical animal welfare issues, promoted adoption events, and secured essential funding through donor engagement. My ability to utilize diverse marketing channels—such as social media, email marketing, and public relations—has greatly enhanced the visibility and impact of the organizations I've served. Additionally, my strong communication and interpersonal skills have allowed me to build and sustain meaningful relationships with community partners, local businesses, donors, and volunteers. These connections have been pivotal in driving volunteer recruitment, securing vital resources, and fostering a supportive and engaged community around animal welfare initiatives.
My unwavering passion for animal welfare fuels my professional pursuits. I am committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of both animals and the communities that support them. Through my unique blend of expertise in animal shelter management, strategic marketing, and community engagement, I am dedicated to developing and implementing strategies that not only improve animal well-being but also inspire and mobilize communities to act in support of this critical cause.
I am honored to be considered for this nomination, as it aligns perfectly with my values and my commitment to advancing animal welfare
Angel Linscott
My name is Angel. I'm a 39 year old ACO, Mom, and AF Veteran. I have 6 years of experience as an Animal Control Officer in the state of Texas. I have worked for municipalities, both under the police department and not; I worked for a private animal control organization; and I'm also an AIR (Animal Investigation and Response) responder.
I have learned a lot about what works and what doesn't work in our field and I want to be a voice for positive change.
My kids love animals and have helped feed bottle babies or just give kitty cuddles when needed. My two youngest want to be ACOs when they grow up and I think that says a lot about the direction our field is heading. How many of us wanted to be "a dog catcher" when we grew up?
In my spare time, I like to spend time with my kids and be crafty. Sometimes, we'll cuddle up with a book and a dog or two.
Amanda Navarro
Amanda Navarro’s career with Lewisville Animal Services began in February of 2020. Her passion for animal welfare, matched with her courage in the field has helped her overcome many daunting calls. One of which, not only garnered attention from national news outlets, but also recognition from Lewisville Police Department, earning her a Letter of Commendation for bravery by former Police Chief Kevin Deaver. Amanda is a TACA recognized and certified Texas Animal Cruelty Investigator, which has assisted her in multiple trials, as well as in her calls for service. Amanda continues to develop her skill sets with the goal of becoming a field supervisor. In Amanda’s free time, she enjoys lifting weights, reading, and writing and recently concluded writing her first full length novel and second book. Prior to working in Animal Services, she lived in East Los Angeles, where she acted as a Code Enforcement Officer, then later, a Public Safety Officer.
Jo Reinsch
Hello my name is Jo Reinsch. I am eager to serve TACA and its members by running for a board position. I have been in animal control for a close to six years, but have a lifetime of animal experience. I have been training horses for 20+ years and working cattle and raising bucking bulls since high school. I am an avid team roper and outdoor enthusiast. As a rancher I have a strong work ethic. I’m currently a field officer and the LRCA also two time officer of the year at Denison Animal Services. I understand the daily struggles we deal with in this field. I am constantly striving to further educate myself in animal welfare so I can be the best I can.
Mark Sloat
Mark Sloat's current role as the Director of Victoria County Animal Services continues his long-standing commitment to animal welfare. His leadership in separating Animal Control from Public Health in Victoria has brought positive changes, particularly in addressing the issue of loose dogs. Embedding an Animal Control Officer in Bloomington Elementary School demonstrates his innovative approach to community engagement and animal protection, fostering trust while reducing cruelty cases.
Mark's extensive background in Austin, where he successfully led various initiatives like the TNR program and the Wildlife Conflict Mitigation Team, has clearly shaped his approach in Victoria. His dedication to raising professional standards for Animal Control Officers and treating them as first responders reflects his passion for advancing the field.
