Dr. Tai Federico talks to a dog being boarded at Riverview Animal HospitalChattanooga veterinarian Dr. Tai Federico has been named interim director of the Humane Educational Society after the organization’s director unexpectedly resigned.
In a statement last week, the shelter announced Bob Citrullo was stepping down from the role, citing personal health concerns. It was a position he held for more than five years.
Federico, who is president of the nonprofit’s board of directors, will serve in the role until a new director is found, according to a new release.
“Tai’s demonstrated leadership and dedication to our shelter will ensure a smooth transition during this pivotal time for the Humane Educational Society,” said Cindy Hall, vice president of the board of directors. “Tai’s proven expertise and commitment to our organization will allow us to focus on our priorities: saving lives and improving animal welfare in our community.”
In the meantime, the board has created a search committee to oversee the hiring process of a permanent executive director, the release states.
“Our committee is eager to begin the search for the shelter’s next leader,” Federico said in a statement. “This person will have the unique opportunity to usher in a new and exciting era for the Humane Educational Society. We look forward to sharing more information on our search process soon.”
Federico, a veterinarian at Riverview Animal Hospital and the 2019-2020 vice president of the Tennessee Veterinary Medical Association’s executive board, has served as interim director for the shelter before.
In September 2013, he was appointed to the position after director Guy Bilyeu died from injuries he received in a bicycle crash.
Several month later in December 2013, Citrullo was picked to lead the organization.
The new change in leadership comes as the organization works to build a new facility.
The nearly $13 million project calls for a 36,000-square-foot animal shelter on just under 8 acres on Randolph Circle near Bonny Oaks Drive and Highway 153. It would house up to 138 dogs and 166 cats.
It would replace the current 119-year-old facility on North Highland Avenue, once an orphanage.
Commissioners in November approved $10 million toward the new shelter. The remaining funds are expected to be raised by the shelter through donations.
Detailed renderings are expected to be released in the coming weeks.