Ryan Harvill joined the PAWS Atlanta Board of Directors earlier this year, looking for a place where he could make a difference. As a lifelong animal lover, he felt that PAWS Atlanta was the perfect place to do that. (We agree!) Ryan is already a hands-on, dedicated member of the Board, and we're excited to have him on our team!

Why did you decide to join the PAWS Atlanta Board?

I joined the Board because I wanted to make a meaningful impact. My day job includes delivering value for others - the company or clients. While sometimes impactful, it lacks the "meaningful" piece. Let's face it, (with few exceptions) most of us are not saving lives every day. I wanted to give to an organization that supported the greater good - and in the case of PAWS Atlanta, the greater good for pets. I knew that my efforts would make an important difference in the lives of dogs and cats. They don't have a choice about their situation, so it's up to us to help them find a place in the community, a loving home.

What type of work do you do outside of PAWS Atlanta?

I've been in professional services for the majority of my career, which means big corporations, delivering consulting and technology solutions. I like to solve business problems with technology, process, and people - they all need to work together. Early on in my career I worked in the hospitality industry in guest relations and operations.  

What do you like to do in your free time? Any hobbies?

In my free time, I like to be active, especially outside, and travel is always at the top of the list! I enjoy the occasional (lightweight) home project, and spending time with friends and family. I should read more!

Tell us about your pets and your family.

I grew up always having a dog in the house (and the occasional cat).  When I first met my husband, he had a lab and an adopted pug mix. Several years later, after taking a pet-break, we adopted a hound who was with us for 12 years (my boy!). In 2023 we welcomed a new "fuzzy nugget" Milo, who's been keeping us on our toes 

Anything else you want to share about you? 

While I call Atlanta home (I've been here for 28 years), I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and still feel at home there as well! I'm always looking for new travel recommendations - I've been to 32 countries, but I want that list to grow even longer.