Selena Coffey, executive director of Foothills Humane Society, recently announced the promotion of Trabert Allen to the position of shelter manager.

Allen is a native of Polk County and currently resides in Mill Springs. He graduated from Polk County High School in 2004, and attended Appalachian State University.  Allen received a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He began working for Foothills Humane Society in September 2009 as part-time animal care staff.  Subsequently he held a number of positions within the organization.  Following the announcement, Coffey touted Allen’s abilities and noted how fortunate the organization was to be able to promote from within the current staff.  “Trabert brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new leadership role,” Coffey said. “Foothills’ animal care staff and animals will benefit from his many years of supporting our mission … finding forever homes for all of our animals.”

Allen said he is very happy to take on the new position.

“I never really saw myself as having a career working with animals, but since starting as a cleaner in 2009, I have enjoyed my job immensely,” Allen said. “It is a very rewarding feeling the first time a scared, shy dog climbs into your lap, looks at you with those sad eyes and then kisses you right on the cheek. I wouldn’t trade that for anything. In my new role, I will continue to dedicate myself to helping the animals here at FHS as well as those in the community, and with the support of our wonderful staff, volunteers and board members, I am excited for what the future holds!”

– article submitted by Joyce Cox