Michelle Alvarez, Chair

Born and raised in New York City, Michelle first visited the sanctuary in 2008 and immediately fell in love with the animals. She joined the staff soon after and devoted 13 years to CAS, first as Outreach Manager and later as Director of Outreach & Special Events. Prior to discovering that animal advocacy had always been her true north and her life’s calling, Michelle spent a decade as a social justice lawyer, focusing on environmental justice and reproductive rights litigation. Now living in the Hudson Valley with her partner and cats, Michelle loves fostering rescued cats of all ages, exploring craft beverages, and hiking in search of waterfalls.