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Jill Simpson, Interim Humane Education Manager

Jill grew up in a small community in central England and came to the U.S. on a one-year Rotary International scholarship almost 30 years ago. She earned a masters degree in social work at the University of Denver, with an emphasis in experiential education and community organization. She gained invaluable experience working for Colorado Outward Bound School Special Programs and then worked for a few years at a ranch for extremely emotionally challenged teenage boys.

But, when the first traffic light was erected in the small Colorado mountain community where she was living, Jill decided the place was too big. So, she moved to Alaska. She spent 10 years in Alaska working in mental health and traveling to 32 bush communities for a native health corporation. She also served as director of a family center for domestic violence and sexual assault. Jill loved Alaska and still misses winter and the snow. (The Utah red cliffs and sand are incredibly different, she says.)

Because of her lifelong love affair with animals, Jill knew she would follow her true passion at some point. So, in 2004, she and her faithful companion, Benika (pictured with Jill), headed out of Alaska to the Lower 48. The idea was to open a dog boarding kennel and training center. But, after becoming a dog trainer through Arizona Canine Academy, it was obvious her calling was in rescue work, education and animal welfare. Jill had volunteered with rescue groups for many years and founded a small shelter, so she felt her skills were best used in humane education.

Jill applied for and was hired as a humane educator at Best Friends in August 2005. She quickly became immersed in sanctuary life and the heat of the high desert. During her time at Best Friends, Jill has acquired skills as a Red Cross instructor in both human and pet first aid and CPR. She has also had extensive experience in experiential education with groups of all types.

In her free time, she loves to hike and camp with however many dogs she may have at the time. (She fosters shy and fearful dogs.) She also loves knitting, singing and massages!