Welcoming Mackenzee McKittrick as Alley Cat Advocates’ next Executive Director
After a thoughtful and comprehensive executive search facilitated by Nielsen Training and Consulting, the Alley Cat Advocates Board of Directors is thrilled to announce the selection of Mackenzee McKittrick as its next Executive Director.
Mackenzee begins her tenure in this role on February 16, 2026. She will succeed Alley Cat Advocates’ visionary co-founder and Executive Director Karen Little who is retiring.
Mackenzee brings nearly 13 years of feline-focused animal welfare experience, including hands-on leadership in community cat programming and municipal policy development. She most recently served as Event and Outreach Coordinator at Vanderburgh Humane Society, in Evansville, Indiana, where she led the Community Cat Program and achieved significant, measurable results, including:
A 32% decrease in cat euthanasia at local Animal Control
231 fewer cat intakes at the Humane Society compared to the prior year
Her expertise in community partnerships, program development, and fundraising has made a lasting impact on the lives of countless cats and the communities she serves.
Leadership Quotes:
“I'm very excited about the experience, energy, and passion Mackenzee will bring to Alley Cat Advocates as our new Executive Director. The Board and I are all committed to partnering closely with her during the transition and cannot wait to see how the organization will grow under her leadership.”
Aaron Jessie, Board Chair
“I could not be more pleased to have Mackenzee McKittrick accept the position of Alley Cat Advocates' new Executive Director. She brings both a passion for the mission and a strong set of skills, the combination of which will help Alley Cat Advocates thrive for many years to come,”
Karen Little, Alley Cat Advocates’ retiring Executive Director
“It is a great privilege to step into the role of executive director of Alley Cat Advocates. After years of following ACA as a leader in community cat programming, I am excited to apply my skills and passion to continue making Louisville the safest city in the country for community cats. Alley Cat Advocates has been a cornerstone for gold standard care of unowned cats, and I am thrilled to continue Karen's legacy.”
Mackenzee McKittrick, Incoming Executive Director
Please join us in welcoming Mackenzee to her new role!
