It’s with mixed emotions that we announce that Director Alexis Pugh will be leaving the City of Memphis, effective June 2, 2023. I am sad for us, but happy for her with a new wonderful opportunity.
Since 2016, Alexis has served Memphis Animal Services (MAS) as an exceptional and transformative servant leader and has completely turned around the operations and reputation of the shelter. We will miss Alexis’s passion, energy, leadership, and dedication to the City of Memphis and our animal population. With her leadership, the save rate has consistently improved, finishing 2022 at 86%. Additionally, the City’s first Pet Resource Center was created, which helps keep pets with their families by providing needed resources such as pet food, medical care, spay/neuter, and other supplies.
In the interim, Chief Chandell Ryan will work closely with the MAS staff to ensure continued and uninterrupted operations during this transition. Please expect additional communications soon. Please direct questions about day-to-day operations to your regular MAS contacts, MAS@memphistn.gov or 901-636-1416.
We wish Alexis the best in her future endeavors.