Lisa Labrecque has resigned as the chief executive officer for Maui Humane Society, which runs the island’s only open-admission shelter and cares for more than 4,900 animals a year.

“It has been the greatest pleasure of my professional career to serve as CEO of Maui Humane Society for the past two-plus years,” Labrecque said in a Thursday news release announcing her departure from the role.

“After considerable thought, I have made the difficult decision to leave MHS,” Labrecque continued. “I am committed to supporting a smooth transition and have embraced every part of this journey. I will remember this time fondly and will always remain a supporter of this incredible organization and the animals it serves.”

According to Maui Humane Society, Labrecque came to Maui Humane Society as a veterinarian and as its inaugural director of its spay and neuter programs. Labrecque is credited for helping to establish the organization’s high-volume, low-cost spay and neuter programs and laying the foundation for its Return-to-Field initiatives.

In announcing Labrecque’s resignation, Maui Humane Society said, “Labrecque has been a steadfast leader and passionate advocate for Maui’s animals throughout her tenure, and the organization expresses its deepest gratitude for her service and commitment.”

She became CEO in July 2023 and lead Maui Humane Society through its response to the August 2023 wildfires and recovery efforts. Under her guidance, Maui Human Society says it strengthened lifesaving programs and expanded community partnerships, leaving a lasting impact on Maui’s animals and the people who love them.

Effective immediately, Chief of Operations Nikki Russell will serve as interim CEO. Russell has been part of Maui Humane Society for over 13 years including eight as an employee and five as a volunteer.

The organization says Russell will work with the Maui Humane Society board and board chair Hillary Nauss to ensure continuity of leadership and progress.

“Dr. Labrecque has shown extraordinary dedication to Maui Humane Society and the animals of our island,” Nauss said. “We are grateful for her service and confident that Nikki Russell, with her experience and commitment, will guide MHS forward as Interim CEO while we search for our next permanent leader.”