Victoria brings more than a decade of animal welfare experience, beginning with nonprofit work in Chicano and transitioning to municipal animals services in South Carolina in 2017. She currently serves as Superintendent of Animal Services for the City of Columbia, providing overall leadership and strategic direction for the division while balancing operational demands, community needs, and building a culture of  compassion, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Victoria holds a B.A. from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies from Southern Utah university, with a  concentration in Contemporary Animal Services Leadership. She is also a graduate of the Best Friends Animal Society Executive Leadership Program. Victoria serves on the boards of South Carolina Animal Care and Control (SCACCA) and Animal Mission, supporting efforts to advance animal welfare and strengthen collaboration across the field.

Jason has more than eight years of experience in animal welfare, with a  professional background spanning animal services enforcement, investigations, animal care, and leadership. He currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Animal Services with the City of Columbia, where he leads the division’s  animal care services, lifesaving programs, and field enforcement operations.

Jason holds NACA Officer 1 and Officer 2 certifications through the National Animal Care and Control Association, a Management Leadership Certification through Best Friends Animal Society and Southern Utah University, and a Government Leadership Development Certification through Midlands Technical College. He is a Criminal Justice major at Southern New Hampshire University with a focus in Human Services and Advocacy. His combination of hands-on field experience, specialized training in animal investigations, and leadership education has shaped a practical, services-focused approach to animal welfare and organizational leadership.

Kendale serves as the Animal Services Officer Supervisor for Columbia Animal Services, where he leads with dedication, compassion, and a strong commitment to community safety. Beginning his career with animal services in 2020, Kendale worked his way up through hard work and genuine care for both animals and the people he serves. He takes pride in supporting the community however he can, ensuring the well-being of citizens and animals alike.

Outside of work, Kendale enjoys reading, gaming, and spending quality time with his wife and family.

Danielle brings a strong foundation in science and hands-on animal care to her role as Animal Services Supervisor. She holds a degree in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Environmental Biology, giving her a deep understanding of animal health and behavior. Before joining the shelter, Danielle spent five years working in the zoo field as an Animal Care Specialist, developing extensive experience in enrichment, husbandry, and welfare for a wide variety of species. That background shapes her approach to sheltering. She is focused on reducing stress, improving quality of life, and creating positive outcomes for every animal in her care while they wait for their next home.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling to new places, and spending time with her cats.

Dr. Bonovich is our shelter veterinarian and holds a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. She also earned a Master’s Degree in Veterinary Forensics from the University of Florida.  With a diverse background in general practice, shelter medicine, veterinary forensics, nonprofit rescue, emergency care, and mobile spay-neuter services, Dr. Bonovich has dedicated her career to improving animal welfare. She has traveled across the state providing low-cost veterinary services to underserved areas, helping communities with limited access to care.  She is passionate about managing the health of shelter animals and balancing the needs of the general population with the extra care required for those with special health challenges.  In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Bonovich specializes in veterinary forensics, performing forensic exams and diagnostics, and preparing detailed forensic reports. She provides expert testimony in court for animal cruelty cases, advocating for the protection of animals and holding offenders accountable for their actions.

Aaron’s journey with Columbia Animal Services began as a dedicated volunteer, where his compassion for animals and commitment to their care quickly stood out. He soon joined the team as an Animal Services Technician, gaining valuable hands-on experience in shelter operations and animal welfare. Now promoted to Rescue Coordinator, Aaron brings together his lifelong love for animals, professional background in logistics and health care, and proven strengths in networking and organization. His career transition into animal welfare reflects his passion for making a difference and the personal fulfillment he finds in helping every dog and cat get their best chance at a forever home.

You can contact Aaron about becoming a Columbia Animal Services rescue partner here.

Sophia is a dedicated animal welfare professional with six years of experience working in both private and government-run shelters across New York, Florida, and South Carolina. She began her career at just 18 years old, gaining hands-on experience as a Shelter Assistant while also contributing to marketing and community outreach efforts. Over time, she developed a strong, well-rounded skill set in shelter operations, animal care, and public engagement.

She holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Shelter Medicine from the University of Florida, where she built a strong academic foundation in animal health, population management, and welfare best practices. Driven by a deep passion for improving the lives of animals, Sophia continues to bring compassion, expertise, and dedication to her work in the field.

In her free time, she enjoys a good coffee run, spending time with her pets and partner, and thrifting.

To learn more about Columbia Animal Services volunteer program click here.

Ashlyn has always had a passion for helping and caring for animals. Her animal welfare journey began in 2019, helping build a strong foundation that supports her role as a Foster Coordinator. She looks forward to connecting with and guiding foster parents through the process and helping animals find safe and loving homes. Making a difference, no matter how big or small, is what drives her every day.

Outside of work she enjoys spending time outside with her family and fur babies.

To learn more about Columbia Animal Services foster program click here.