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New direction at GCHS
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Times photo: Brenda Steurer Deb Broge, Monticello, became executive director of the Green County Humane Society Nov. 2. Working with groups, raising money for the shelter and working with employees and volunteers will take up most of her time. But she knows her main goal is to find homes for the animals.
MONROE - Deb Broge has the experience the Green County Humane Society Board looked for when it hired an executive director at the shelter.

For the past 14 years she's worked with the Badgerland Girl Scouts. Her duties there included writing grants, helping to raise money and training volunteers.

That was the background the board looked for when it hired someone to oversee the shelter.

"We're very happy to have her," board member Tracey Pederson said.

Pederson and Swiss Colony screened about 12 applicants and narrowed the field to two.

"She's very passionate about animals and she has a lot of leadership skills," Pederson said.

The board interviewed Broge in September and selected her in October. She began her duties Nov. 2.

The board will pay Broge for the remaining two months of the year and has talked to private donors about helping fund the position next year.

The board wouldn't say how much Broge is paid, nor would it talk about who might contribute to her salary next year.

However, Board President Paul Barrett said the board is confident Broge will be able to increase funding for the shelter through fundraising and grants to offset her salary.

Broge said her management experience will be helpful, but her love of animals also will be useful. She grew up on a farm near Stoughton, and was active in 4-H.

"This will be a good fit for me," she said. "I want to use my background to help us move forward."

Among her duties will be writing grants, raising money, training employees and volunteers, talking to groups about the humane society, being a liaison to the board and managing the shelter.

She looks forward to talking to groups and organizations about the shelter and the importance of pets.

"I want to build a collaboration with the community and the county," she said.

She said the animals are the most important part of her job.

"We have wonderful animals. We want them to go to loving homes," she said.

Tonya Kelly will remain shelter manager. She is in charge of animal care.

Pederson said it made sense to hire an executive director to oversee the shelter operations.

"Tonya is busy taking care of the animals. That's her area of expertise," Pederson said.

Pederson said Broge and Kelly will compliment each other's abilities and skills.

"This gives Tonya some support, too," Pederson said.