Cheryl Schneider, animal services director for the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter, will retire in May, according to an April 9 news release. Her last day is May 7.

Schneider began her career as the animal services director in September 2007. During her tenure, Schneider raised the shelter’s save rate to over 90%, secured a grant of $900,000 from the Petco Foundation, and was honored with the Paul Jolly Compassion award and the first ever AMPA Lifesaving Award, the release said.

“It was 13 years ago that I took the director’s position at the then troubled Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter," Schneider said in the release. "I was determined to show that an open admission shelter could become a no-kill shelter that saved all the lives of the adoptable animals, and that the animals could be rehabilitated. It wasn’t an easy road, but the goal was obtained and sustained."

The WCRAS board has selected Misty Valenta, current community programs coordinator, to begin the role the following day to ensure a smooth transition.  Valenta has served under Schneider as the community programs coordinator for seven years.

“We cannot adequately express our thanks to Cheryl for her nearly 13 years of service,” said Williamson County Commissioner Valerie Covey, who represents the WCRAS board, in the release. “She has been a creative and innovative leader who has made the shelter into the wonderful facility it is today. Although we are sad that Cheryl is retiring, we are excited to see what Misty will do to further the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter’s mission to serve the community and the animals seeking their forever homes.”