Meet our leadership team:
Executive Director—Alexis Robertson
Alexis started her journey in animal welfare when she began volunteering in shelters more than 15 years ago. She worked in rescues and animal hospitals through college until graduating from Grand Valley State University with a degree in Public and Nonprofit Administration. She became our Executive Director in 2016, and leads our organization passionately and strategically. She is newly married and has a rescue hobby farm that’s been growing year after year.
Email: BigLakeED@gmail.com
Shelter Manager—Velvet Lyght
Velvet is the Shelter Manager of Big Lake Humane Society. She joined the organization in December 2018 as a volunteer and foster. Her passion for animal welfare found a place with us and that passion has continued to grow. Velvet is dedicated to finding homes for the animals that come into our care.
Email: BigLakeHumane@gmail.com
Clinic Manager—Leah Wetmore
Leah joined Big Lake Community Animal Clinic shortly after its acquisition. She has previously worked in animal hospitals and feels a calling to help animals in need. Leah has been instrumental in structuring our programs and helping grow our services. She has two kids and two rescue dogs. Her favorite breed is anything Pitty-mixed.
Email: BigLakeCAC@gmail.com
Board President—Kim Colegrove
Kim Colegrove is a lifelong animal advocate dedicated to making a difference for pets in need. As the owner of Trensyd Realty, Kim has long used her platform to support Big Lake Humane Society, generously donating a portion of every home sold to further our mission.
Her commitment deepened when she joined our fundraising committee, where she played a vital role in raising awareness and support for our programs. Now, as Vice President of our Board of Directors, Kim channels her passion into leading efforts to secure the resources needed to help companion animals live happy, healthy lives in loving homes.
Board Secretary—Barb Rickard
Barb Rickard has been an active volunteer at the Muskegon Humane Society for eight years and currently serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors. Barb enjoys volunteering with the dogs at the shelter weekly and assisting with various fundraisers to help raise money for the shelter. She also works part-time as a freelance writer and editor, using her writing and communication skills in her current board position. Barb has served on numerous boards and committees in the Grand Haven area, including nine years on the Grand Haven Schools Foundation. Her passion and love for dogs led her to take on a more active role in our organization during the past few years.
Board Treasurer—Zach Westendorp
Zach joined the Board of Directors as Treasurer in 2022. He has a degree in Accounting & Philosophy from Western Michigan University and works as an Auditor for SpartanNash. Zach has professional experience in nonprofit auditing, state and local taxation, and bookkeeping. Zach was inspired to join the shelter by his father’s village council position and his mother’s love for animals. In his free time, he enjoys trying new food, riding motorcycles, and buying his dog new sweaters.
Vice President—Matt Driesenga
Matt first joined the Muskegon Humane Society as a volunteer in July 2012, and then later joined the Board of Directors in April 2018 serving as Treasurer until September of 2022 when he became Vice-president. He is a Certified Management Accountant with a demonstrated history working in a variety of industries specializing in Cost Accounting, Budget, and Forecast development. Matt has three rescue cats that were all adopted from Big Lake Humane Society.
Board Member—Rob Reed
Rob is a dedicated local businessman and passionate animal welfare supporter who brings both heart and hard work to Big Lake Humane Society. With a true “boots on the ground” approach, Rob isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves, whether that means changing light bulbs, walking dogs, or lending his expertise to fundraising initiatives. His willingness to jump in wherever he’s needed makes him an invaluable part of our mission. Rob’s commitment to community and compassion for animals shines through in everything he does, and we are grateful for the many ways he helps us make a difference for pets and the people who love them.