A Message from Chimp Haven’s President and CEO

I am reaching out to share some important news regarding upcoming changes at Chimp Haven. It has and continues to be my honor and privilege to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer for this amazing organization, and I am very proud of how together, we have been able to not only maintain but grow our commitment to providing safe sanctuary for hundreds of chimpanzees. From the onset of my term as CEO, I informed the Board of Directors that my service in this role would be limited and this would be my final position before retiring. As such, we are now set to initiate the process of identifying new leadership for Chimp Haven with the intention of a transition period in 2017.

As you may know, I have a long history of faithfully fulfilling the role of president & CEO for four different successful nonprofit organizations. Just as in my previous positions, my goal is to ensure that Chimp Haven is a stronger organization following my tenure than prior to it.

Much thought and discussion has gone into strategizing for this transition period and I want you to rest assured that until we identify the right person to step in as my successor, I have agreed to remain in my current position and lead the organization. Once the position is filled, I will ensure a smooth transition and work closely with new leadership in a training and support role. Finally, I will transition into a new adjunct role where I will assist with the sustainability of fundraising and development work and continue to be an ongoing resource for longtime supporters such as you.

This is an exciting time in Chimp Haven’s history. We will need our supporters more than ever to help fulfill our responsibility to provide a home for hundreds more chimpanzees who deserve their chance to retire. I expect to be working alongside you as we achieve this all-important goal.

Warmest regards and thank you so much for your continued support of the chimpanzees living at Chimp Haven,

Cathy Willis Spraetz
President and Chief Executive Officer

Chimp Haven