Meet The Team
Leadership
Executive Director
Simi Balter
With over 20 years of dedicated service in the nonprofit sector, Simi Balter has spent the majority of her life’s work fostering the invaluable connection between humans and animals. Simi’s expertise in nonprofit leadership includes cultivating strong community partnerships and engaging stakeholders to drive meaningful change. Throughout her career, Simi has demonstrated a commitment to strategic planning, fundraising and program development. Her expertise and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in driving the mission of Pet Network forward. Simi’s passion for creating a better world for pets and the people who love them continues to inspire her work and the community she serves and beyond.
Director of Community Medicine
Dr. Nicholas Robl, DVM
​​Dr. Nick Robl completed his D.V.M. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2013 following an M.A. in Biological Anthropology from Kent State University in Ohio. He has experience practicing veterinary medicine in a variety of settings including private practice, sanctuaries, shelters, and clinics across the United States. Dr. Robl has a strong background in veterinary surgery, dentistry, internal medicine, exotics, and specialized orthopedic procedures. He has also performed research and wildlife veterinary work around the world including work in Indonesia, Cambodia, Rwanda, D. R. Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Colombia, Peru, Brazil and Suriname.
Hospital Medical Director
Dr. Marlène Tremblay, DVM, PhD.
Dr. Tremblay received her D.V.M from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2013 followed by a Public Health & Epidemiology Research Internship. She received a PhD in epidemiology and data science from Utrecht University in 2019. Dr. Tremblay has worked as a veterinarian at a variety of shelters and non-profit organizations. Her interests include surgery, behavioral medicine, and helping animal welfare organizations implement data-supported strategies. Her goal is to integrate population medicine with individualized medicine to optimize outcomes in shelters.
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Director of Operations
Katie Millonzi
​With over a decade of experience in animal care and shelter operations, Katie is passionate about enhancing animal welfare through industry best practices. Her educational background includes a B.S. in Biological Science from Alma College and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Zoo and Aquarium Studies from Western Illinois University. She has held leadership roles in various animal welfare organizations, including Mountain Humane and PAWS Chicago, where she led teams, implemented new efficiencies, and improved overall animal care and management.
Management Team
Marketing & Development Manager
Sybile O'Neill
Sybile O'Neill, a longtime Tahoe local, combines her extensive marketing experience with her passion for animal welfare at Pet Network Lake Tahoe. With a deep commitment to the Tahoe community, she works to elevate Pet Network’s mission, supporting initiatives that benefit animals in need and connecting people with opportunities to make a meaningful impact.
Animal Care and Client Services Manager
Bradley (Brad) Steelmon
Bradley has been with Pet Network for four years, growing from Client Services Representative to Client Services Supervisor before stepping into his current role. He is especially passionate about adoption work and client experience, has completed extensive training in animal care and adoption counseling with a focus on the Adopters Welcome approach, and has taught adoption courses through Maddie’s University. Bradley continues to further his education, always looking for better ways to support animals, adopters, and the community.
Volunteer and Foster Manager
Aria Overli
Aria brings over a decade of experience in volunteer management and is committed to connecting individuals with meaningful opportunities that strengthen communities and enhance quality of life. She resides in Reno with her husband, daughter, and two cats, and helps run a community garden in her yard. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Arts in Cultural Anthropology, which have shaped her strong emphasis on the critical role people play in advancing effective and compassionate animal welfare practices. She earned her Certification in Volunteer Administration in April 2026, strengthening her dedication to engaging and supporting volunteers.
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Medical Services and Operations Manager
Jules DiGiovanni
Jules DiGiovanni oversees shelter medical operations at Pet Network Humane Society, bringing dedication and expertise to the health and well-being of animals in Pet Network’s care. With a strong background in animal care, Jules plays a vital role in ensuring each pet receives compassionate and high-quality medical attention, supporting Pet Network’s mission to save lives and enrich the community through responsible and comprehensive care.
Admissions Manager
Christina Mackey
Christina Mackey has been dedicated to animal welfare since 2016 and brings a broad, hands-on understanding of shelter operations and animal transfers to Pet Network. She first joined the organization in 2021 and returned as Transfer Coordinator after expanding her experience before stepping into her current role as Admissions Manager. Christina works closely with partner shelters to thoughtfully evaluate animals from overpopulated facilities and coordinate their transition into Pet Network’s care. She also oversees the owner surrender program, ensuring each animal is met with compassion, transparency, and respect. With a strong focus on Northern Nevada and partnerships extending to California, New Mexico, and Hawaii, Christina is proud to celebrate and strengthen the connections that help save lives.
Behavior and Enrichment Manager
Rachel Dickinson
A proud New Englander, Rachel was born and raised in Connecticut and is a graduate of the University of Maine. She has been working in the animal rescue and sheltering world for over 15 years and has volunteered for animal shelters since she was 8-years-old. Rachel believes that the human-animal bond is of the utmost importance and is passionate about Humane Education. Rachel received her CPDT-KA in 2015 and is a strong advocate for positive reinforcement and science-based animal training.
Apply Today
If you are interested in this unique opportunity and contributing to our lifesaving work please email a cover letter and resume.