Our Team

We bring different perspectives to the table, but we’re united by a love for purposeful work, saving animals in need and real connection.

We could not do what we do without our amazing volunteers! Their dedication to the animals never goes unnoticed.

Line drawing of a dog and cat sitting back-to-back with a heart shape between them.

With a vision for building something meaningful, Carol brings a blend of big-picture thinking and hands-on experience. She sets the tone for everything we do. Her passion and dedication to the shelter are unmatched.

A young woman with blonde hair in a ponytail, wearing a black blazer and white shirt, standing outdoors on green grass, holding a small white dog with pointy ears.

Carol Schmidt

Board President

Elaine Swoish

Treasurer

Creative and strategic in equal measure, Elaine brings fresh ideas to every discussion.She turns insights into action and helps our message resonate wherever she goes.

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a plaid shirt over a blue top, sitting against a neutral background.

My name is Michaela West, I am a Sanilac County native and born animal lover. I have been a part of Sanilac County Humane Society for seven years. I am passionate about helping homeless animals and the community.

A woman sitting on grass outside, wearing a floral dress, sunglasses, a light-colored wide-brimmed hat, and smiling. She is holding a white dog with black spots and a bandana, and there are two other dogs lying at her feet. The background features dark foliage.

Michaela West

Vice President

A young woman with blonde hair sitting on grass in a lush green garden with pink flowers and trees.

Hi my name is Kaylynn! I’m a very kind hearted, social and determined person. I enjoy my time with animals a little bit more than people, but I feel like we all do in a way! A little bit more about me is my favorite dog breed is a German Shepherd, I have three! I have a pet hedgehog and I love the beach. I am in college deciding whether to pursue becoming a veterinarian or an elementary school teacher.

Kaylynn Kramer

Secretary

A woman with glasses and brown hair pulled back, smiling, wearing a pink hoodie with text and graphic, holding a guinea pig.
A young woman with glasses, long brown hair, and a green t-shirt, smiling outdoors.

Kristen Gillig

Board Member Volunteer Coordinator

Hi everyone! My name is Kristen and I am a the Volunteer Coordinator and board member here at SCHS. I started my journey with SCHS 22 years ago at the age of 8. My volunteer journey started as a punishment from my mom. A lesson in how to properly care for our family pets. She figured I could work my way through my punishment by volunteering. What she didn’t know is that I would fall in love with it. Now, all these years later, my passion for our mission is still strong.

Jill Turbok

Board Member

Growing up on a farm gave me a compassion for animals. I volunteer at the Sanilac County Humane Society to be apart of helping as many animals as possible.