Tawny Hammond

Author, Entrepreneur, and Professional Coach

I’m an author, entrepreneur, and professional coach with a lifelong dedication to making a positive impact on animals and communities. As the National Director of No Kill Advancement with Best Friends Animal Society, I’m privileged to work toward ending the killing of companion animals in shelters across the United States. For me, animal welfare goes beyond saving lives—it’s deeply tied to social justice, community wellness, and how we reflect our compassion as a society.

With over three decades of experience in public service, I’ve had the honor of leading teams, developing innovative programs, and collaborating with leaders to build stronger, more connected communities. My journey began in Chicago, Illinois, where I was born and raised. I launched my first business before transitioning into public service in the historic Village of Oak Park. I went on to spend 25 years in leadership roles in Fairfax County, Virginia, focusing on creating opportunities for growth and change.

Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about fostering leadership, strengthening organizational culture, and building coalitions that drive meaningful transformation. I’m proud to share my insights and experiences as a presenter and consultant, helping others navigate the challenges of leadership and community building.

Beyond my work in animal services, I hold a Master Captain’s License with the United States Coast Guard and run several tourism companies in Traverse City, Michigan. My spouse, Amy, and I love exploring the natural beauty of the area and connecting with our vibrant local community.

One of the highlights of my career was serving as Chief of Animal Services for the City of Austin, Texas, where our team achieved a 98% save rate for more than 17,000 animals in 2017. This milestone was a testament to the power of collaboration and the commitment of a community that believed in lifesaving.

I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue learning and growing with others who share my vision for a better world—for both people and animals. Every step of this journey reminds me that together, we can make extraordinary change happen.