Stephanie Filer, Executive Director

Stephanie has worked in senior leadership positions at non-profits for nearly 20 years, leading high-performing communications, development, and operations teams.

Her advocacy efforts at the state and local level have led to countless changes in animal welfare legislation, including overturning multiple decades-old breed specific/discriminatory ordinances across Iowa.

After nearly 12 years at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, in August 2021 she joined Shelter Animals Count as Executive Director to further advance animal welfare across the country through data-enabled insights.

With a love for animals, a heart for her community, and a passion for under-served children, Stephanie has volunteered and served in officer roles on many boards to help these causes, including most recently as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).

Her professional and civic achievements have earned her Forty Under 40 recognition and the first annual Stephanie Filer Community Impact Award, among many other awards and honors.

She is a member of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement and The Association of Fundraising professionals and regularly presents at national conferences both in and outside of animal welfare.

Stephanie resides in Atlanta, GA with her 3 cats and 2 dogs.