Feb. 11, 2025

An experienced leader from Sioux Falls-area nonprofits will be the next executive director of the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society. 

Jami Gates Grieve begins her new role Feb. 24. She comes to the Humane Society from leadership at the American Cancer Society, as executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sioux Empire and director of membership at the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce.

“We welcome Jami and look forward to working with her as we continue to further the mission of being a safe haven and human voice for all animals in need,” the organization said in a statement.

“We want to thank SFAHS CFO Michelle Hentschel for her incredible leadership as interim executive director over the past few months. Michelle will remain the shelter’s CFO and an essential part of the senior leadership team. We also want to congratulate the entire Sioux Falls Area Humane Society team for their hard work and passionate care of animals, leading to another record year for adoptions in 2024.”

The Humane Society saw 4,437 animal adoptions last year, a 17 percent year-over-year increase.