Elizabeth Stevenson has been hired as the new executive director of PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap, the nonprofit announced Monday.

PAWS said Stevenson brings more than 20 years of experience working in all aspects of nonprofit organizational administration and management, and said she has a strong background in fund development, communication and advocacy.

“We are more than thrilled to have Stevenson join our team,” said Tori Dotson, the president of the PAWS board of directors. “With our two new locations at Pleasant Beach and in Kingston, and now a new executive director, this is a very exciting time for PAWS.”

“In my first week at PAWS of Bainbridge and North Kitsap, I have met so many wonderful people” Stevenson said.

“PAWS is lucky to have such committed volunteer leadership and dedicated staff who work 365 days a year to provide the best care for the animals. I am honored to have been selected to work with this great group of people to deliver such an important mission,” she added.

Stevenson recently moved back to the Pacific Northwest after spending 13 years in Hawaii where she most recently served as the executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Aloha Chapter.

A lifelong animal lover, she has always had pets, including cats, dogs, horses, goats, even a lovable raccoon named Bandit. She also serves on the board of Women of Wisdom.