New Executive Director

Melanie Cressman taking the reins as the new Executive Director of Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward

Hastings Prince Edward – The Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward is thrilled to announce the appointment of Melanie Cressman as our new Executive Director, effective August 18, 2025. Her proven track record in non-profit leadership, includes the role of Director of Donor Relations at United Way HPE and most recently, the Executive Director of The Children’s Foundation.

With a degree in Agriculture from the University of Guelph, Melanie brings over 20 years of experience in the equine industry, where she developed expertise focused on animal care, husbandry and rehabilitation. Her lifelong passion for animals—both large and small—drives her commitment to supporting the Humane Society’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals who are lost, abused, or neglected.

“I’m truly excited to join this incredible team, whose care and dedication make such a difference in the lives of animals every day,” said Melanie. “The Humane Society’s tagline, Connected by Compassion, really speaks to me. It reflects the heart of this work—our connection to animals, our community, and to each other as a team. I’m especially passionate about the role animals play in our lives—not just as companions, but as family. They offer us comfort, connection, and often a sense of healing that is truly powerful. I’m honoured to be part of an organization that helps protect and celebrate that bond, and I look forward to finding new ways to support animals in need and the people who care about them.”

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I’m delighted to welcome Melanie Cressman as the new Executive Director of the Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward. Melanie takes over from our Interim Executive Director Chris Barry who stepped in this past January to support HSHPE as we searched for a permanent replacement. Melanie brings not only strong leadership and experience, but a genuine passion for animal welfare and community engagement. We’re excited for this next chapter and confident that under her guidance, HSHPE will continue to thrive and grow in service to both animals and people across our region.” — Greg Sudds, Board Chair, Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward

Melanie looks forward to connecting with the community, stakeholders, and supporters as she embarks on this new and meaningful journey with the Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward. She invites people to stop by the shelter and say hello!

HSHPE cares for stray, surrendered, neglected and abused animals in Hastings and Prince Edward Counties. The Society returns lost animals to families, coordinates adoption of animals to forever homes, provides medical care and other necessities for animals in distress, provides spay/neuter services to control pet over-population and educates the public about animal welfare.