![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Michael-Blackwell-Headshot.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMichael J Blackwell, DVM, MPH,
Assistant Surgeon General, USPHS (Ret.)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nFounder & Director<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nDr. Michael Blackwell is a retired Rear Admiral and former Assistant Surgeon General in the U.S. Public Health Service<\/a>, with more than four decades of leadership in veterinary medicine, public health, and regulatory policy. He served as Chief of Staff in the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General<\/a>, Deputy Director of the FDA\u2019s Center for Veterinary Medicine<\/a>, and Chief Veterinary Officer of the U.S. Public Health Service<\/a>. He also served as Dean of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine<\/a>.
Dr. Blackwell\u2019s national contributions have been recognized with the USPHS Distinguished Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and two Surgeon General\u2019s Exemplary Service Medals. He is the 2025 recipient of the AVMA Frederick D. Patterson Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2021 Senator John Melcher, DVM Leadership in Public Policy Award, and the 2020 Maddie\u2019s Fund Avanzino Leadership Award, and is a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice. A proud graduate of Tuskegee University<\/a>, he continues to mentor future leaders committed to equity, innovation, and One Health collaboration.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Candice-Hinkle.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\nCandice Hinkle, MBA, PMP<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAssistant Director<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nWith a background in animal science, nonprofit management, and development, Candice brings a unique blend of operational leadership and passion for animal welfare to her work. Her career has spanned roles in zoo management, animal sheltering, and nonprofit development, all rooted in her commitment to strengthening the bond between people and their pets. She holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from Tusculum University<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Claire-Schuch-Headshot.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\nClaire Schuch, PhD<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAssociate Director of Research<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nDr. Claire Schuch is a community-based researcher, educator, and social justice advocate with expertise in qualitative research, program evaluation, and community health. She has held leadership roles in education, public health, and applied research, including work with Decision Information Resources<\/a>, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools<\/a>, and Epiphany Community Services<\/a>. Her scholarship spans immigrant integration, health equity, and civic engagement, with numerous publications and federal- and foundation-funded projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFluent in English, Dutch, and Spanish, and a certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor<\/a>, Dr. Schuch brings a global perspective to advancing equity and inclusion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Kaitlyn-Davis-Headshot.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\nKaitlyn V. Andres, MS, MPH<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nResearch Associate<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nKaitlyn holds a Master of Science degree in Biomedical Science from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine<\/a> and a Master of Public Health degree from Thomas Jefferson University<\/a>. Her experience lies mainly in utilizing qualitative research methods to improve public health. She is passionate about creating a just and healthy world for all people and animals. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"Headshot](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Katy_Carpenter.275px.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\nKaty Carpenter, MSIS<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nEditorial Operations Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nKaty oversees submission workflows, peer review coordination, and copyediting to ensure a smooth and responsive editorial process. From initial screening to final publication, she guides manuscripts through each stage with precision and care. She holds an MS in Information Sciences from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville<\/a>. Katy\u2019s systems-oriented approach to editorial work is shaped by her education in information sciences and her previous experience in nonprofit human resources. She has several years of experience supporting research, administration, and human resources. With a background in psychology and an MS in Information Sciences, Katy brings expertise in policy development, web design, and organizational systems. She is passionate about creating systems that help pet families stay healthy, connected, and cared for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Kayla_Anderson.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\nKayla Anderson, LMSW<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nVeterinary Social Worker<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nKayla is a master level social worker. Her experience is in co-hosting workshops around trauma theory and cultural humility for veterinary professionals, staffing a veterinary social work hotline for community members experiencing pet loss, and assisting with the creation of a peer-support application for veterinarians and veterinary support staff where she currently serves as a mental health consultant for volunteers. Kayla coordinates referrals for local pet resources and social services for pets and their parents respectively, communicates with veterinary service providers, animal welfare and social service organizations on behalf of pet families, serves as a mediator between veterinary staff and pet families, navigating any potential hitches in communication provides grief and loss support for pet families in anticipation of, during, or after the death of a pet, hosts trainings on compassion fatigue, burnout, emotional regulation, and boundary setting for animal welfare and veterinary care professionals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/TFisher-Headshot.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\nT\u2019 Fisher<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nDirector of Operations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nT\u2019 is a nationally recognized leader in animal welfare and community-based veterinary initiatives with more than 20 years of experience building innovative programs that bridge gaps in access to care. She founded the Companion Animal Initiative of Tennessee<\/a> (CAIT) at the University of Tennessee, which has trained thousands of veterinary students and practitioners in high-quality, high-volume spay\/neuter techniques, shelter medicine<\/a>, and community engagement. T\u2019 also spearheaded impactful programs such as Vets for Pets of Homeless Owners, Feral Fixin\u2019, Animal Haven, and Foster Paws, all of which continue to reduce shelter euthanasia, support vulnerable pet families, and strengthen communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\nHer leadership has been honored with awards including the National Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, the National Gamma Sigma Delta Team Award for Feral Fixin\u2019, and the Hill\u2019s Animal Welfare and Humane Ethics Award. Known for a strong commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and sustainable solutions, T\u2019 combines strategic vision with hands-on experience to improve the lives of both pets and the people who care for them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Dr. Michael Blackwell is a retired Rear Admiral and former Assistant Surgeon General in the U.S. Public Health Service<\/a>, with more than four decades of leadership in veterinary medicine, public health, and regulatory policy. He served as Chief of Staff in the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General<\/a>, Deputy Director of the FDA\u2019s Center for Veterinary Medicine<\/a>, and Chief Veterinary Officer of the U.S. Public Health Service<\/a>. He also served as Dean of the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine<\/a>. Assistant Director<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n With a background in animal science, nonprofit management, and development, Candice brings a unique blend of operational leadership and passion for animal welfare to her work. Her career has spanned roles in zoo management, animal sheltering, and nonprofit development, all rooted in her commitment to strengthening the bond between people and their pets. She holds a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from Tusculum University<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Associate Director of Research<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Claire Schuch is a community-based researcher, educator, and social justice advocate with expertise in qualitative research, program evaluation, and community health. She has held leadership roles in education, public health, and applied research, including work with Decision Information Resources<\/a>, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools<\/a>, and Epiphany Community Services<\/a>. Her scholarship spans immigrant integration, health equity, and civic engagement, with numerous publications and federal- and foundation-funded projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fluent in English, Dutch, and Spanish, and a certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor<\/a>, Dr. Schuch brings a global perspective to advancing equity and inclusion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Research Associate<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Kaitlyn holds a Master of Science degree in Biomedical Science from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine<\/a> and a Master of Public Health degree from Thomas Jefferson University<\/a>. Her experience lies mainly in utilizing qualitative research methods to improve public health. She is passionate about creating a just and healthy world for all people and animals. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Editorial Operations Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Katy oversees submission workflows, peer review coordination, and copyediting to ensure a smooth and responsive editorial process. From initial screening to final publication, she guides manuscripts through each stage with precision and care. She holds an MS in Information Sciences from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville<\/a>. Katy\u2019s systems-oriented approach to editorial work is shaped by her education in information sciences and her previous experience in nonprofit human resources. She has several years of experience supporting research, administration, and human resources. With a background in psychology and an MS in Information Sciences, Katy brings expertise in policy development, web design, and organizational systems. She is passionate about creating systems that help pet families stay healthy, connected, and cared for.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Veterinary Social Worker<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Kayla is a master level social worker. Her experience is in co-hosting workshops around trauma theory and cultural humility for veterinary professionals, staffing a veterinary social work hotline for community members experiencing pet loss, and assisting with the creation of a peer-support application for veterinarians and veterinary support staff where she currently serves as a mental health consultant for volunteers. Kayla coordinates referrals for local pet resources and social services for pets and their parents respectively, communicates with veterinary service providers, animal welfare and social service organizations on behalf of pet families, serves as a mediator between veterinary staff and pet families, navigating any potential hitches in communication provides grief and loss support for pet families in anticipation of, during, or after the death of a pet, hosts trainings on compassion fatigue, burnout, emotional regulation, and boundary setting for animal welfare and veterinary care professionals.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Director of Operations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n T\u2019 is a nationally recognized leader in animal welfare and community-based veterinary initiatives with more than 20 years of experience building innovative programs that bridge gaps in access to care. She founded the Companion Animal Initiative of Tennessee<\/a> (CAIT) at the University of Tennessee, which has trained thousands of veterinary students and practitioners in high-quality, high-volume spay\/neuter techniques, shelter medicine<\/a>, and community engagement. T\u2019 also spearheaded impactful programs such as Vets for Pets of Homeless Owners, Feral Fixin\u2019, Animal Haven, and Foster Paws, all of which continue to reduce shelter euthanasia, support vulnerable pet families, and strengthen communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Her leadership has been honored with awards including the National Carnegie Community Engagement Classification, the National Gamma Sigma Delta Team Award for Feral Fixin\u2019, and the Hill\u2019s Animal Welfare and Humane Ethics Award. Known for a strong commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and sustainable solutions, T\u2019 combines strategic vision with hands-on experience to improve the lives of both pets and the people who care for them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Dr. Blackwell\u2019s national contributions have been recognized with the USPHS Distinguished Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and two Surgeon General\u2019s Exemplary Service Medals. He is the 2025 recipient of the AVMA Frederick D. Patterson Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2021 Senator John Melcher, DVM Leadership in Public Policy Award, and the 2020 Maddie\u2019s Fund Avanzino Leadership Award, and is a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice. A proud graduate of Tuskegee University<\/a>, he continues to mentor future leaders committed to equity, innovation, and One Health collaboration.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCandice Hinkle, MBA, PMP<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nClaire Schuch, PhD<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKaitlyn V. Andres, MS, MPH<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKaty Carpenter, MSIS<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nKayla Anderson, LMSW<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nT\u2019 Fisher<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/csw.utk.edu\/cpfw\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2026\/03\/Chance.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n