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Jasper Ridge Farm in Portola Valley has appointed Brenda Melton as its new executive director. Melton brings over 25 years of experience in animal care and organizational leadership to the nonprofit team.
Jasper Ridge was founded in 2009 by Wendy Mattes. Its mission is to enrich the lives of community members by providing a space where children and adults can receive comfort and acceptance through interactions with animals.
The organization also offers free therapeutic animal-assisted programs for children with special needs, families dealing with homelessness, veterans and adults with disabilities.
Melton holds a master’s degree in business administration from Keller Graduate School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in zoology from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point.
Melton began her career in animal care as a zookeeper and has experience caring for a wide range of animals, including exotic wildlife and barnyard animals. Most recently, she led a team of 50 animal care professionals at the California Academy of Sciences and was involved in the museum’s grand re-opening in 2008.
“I’m a people-first leader who thrives on collaboration, creative problem-solving and building innovative programs that make a meaningful difference,” said Melton in a press release. “Jasper Ridge Farm is a place where so many of my professional passions and personal values intersect.”
For more information on Jasper Ridge Farm visit jasperridgefarm.org.
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