As the country’s first national humane organization, American Humane Society has spent nearly 150 years leading advancements in animal welfare, strengthening conservation initiatives and promoting the humane treatment of animals across industries and ecosystems.
This International Women’s Day, we are shining a spotlight on five extraordinary women whose leadership is transforming conservation and safeguarding animal lives worldwide.
Observed each year on March 8, International Women’s Day began in 1911 as part of a global effort to honor women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements. Over time, it has grown into both a celebration of progress and a call to action for gender equity across every sector, including environmental and conservation fields.
Who are the women shaping the future of wildlife conservation and animal welfare?
Across continents and ecosystems, women are advancing groundbreaking research, influencing global policy and creating scalable conservation models that protect animals for generations to come. These five women are shaping the future of animal welfare.
Kathleen M. Dudzinski, Ph.D. – a voice for dolphins and an expert in decoding communication and marine conservation
Dr. Kathleen M. Dudzinski, founder of the Dolphin Communication Project, has been studying dolphin behavior, communication and acoustics for over three decades in both wild and managed care settings. Her comparative research bridges conservation science and public education, offering data-driven insights that support animal welfare and ocean advocacy. Through ecotourism and outreach, she inspires the next generation of conservation stewards. She also serves as managing editor of Aquatic Mammals Journal and has published widely on cetacean social behavior, raising awareness for her groundbreaking research and fostering collaboration between other scientists and researchers. Dr. Dudzinski is the winner of the 2025 Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation. Her work exemplifies how science and public engagement can drive the protection of marine species worldwide.
Hilde Vanleeuwe, Ph.D.– a guardian of Africa’s wild heart, restoring wildlife corridors and protecting endangered species
Dr. Hilde Vanleeuwe, founder and CEO of WilderThings, has been protecting African wildlife for over 30 years, dedicating her career to expanding protected habitats, combating prolific, dangerous poaching and building conservation programs from the ground up. Dr. Vanleeuwe founded WilderThings to restore riparian wildlife corridors that connect habitats and help species adapt to climate change. She trains rangers, manages conservation funding and inspires action through advocacy. A lifelong animal advocate, she continues to make a difference across Africa’s most challenging landscapes. Dr. Vanleeuwe was a 2025 finalist for the Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation, Global Humane Society’s annual prize recognizing the exceptional achievements of conservation scientists. Her work reflects an unwavering dedication to wildlife and wild places.
Allison D. Tuttle, DVM, Diplomate ACZM – a protector of ocean life, leading rescue, research and conservation efforts
As Chief Zoological Officer, Dr. Allison D. Tuttle oversees all zoological operations at Mystic Aquarium, where she leads programs that connect animal care, research and education. Dr. Tuttle leads her team with the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles and disentanglement of wild seals, participation in chick bolstering in South Africa for critically endangered African penguins, scientifically studying coral reefs and building sea turtle and manatee conservation programs in Colombia. She also educates local fishers on sustainable practices. Under her guidance, Mystic provides world-class care for diverse animal ambassadors, inspiring over 800,000 visitors annually. Her leadership blends scientific rigor, hands-on conservation and public engagement, creating meaningful global impact while cultivating environmental awareness and action.
Lucy Stratford – a champion of animal welfare science, advancing the understanding of behavior for compassionate care
Lucy Stratford is Ireland’s first dedicated Behaviour and Welfare Scientist at Dublin Zoo, coordinating welfare and behavioural research. She led Dublin Zoo’s first Animal Welfare Master Plan and is developing a novel personality and welfare tool to understand the lived experience of Asian Elephants in managed care. Lucy advances global understanding of animal welfare and promotes respect for wildlife in both managed care and conservation settings through research and advocacy.
L. Rae Stone, DVM – a pioneer of dolphin conservation, blending research, innovation and education
Dr. L. Rae Stone co-founded Dolphin Quest, shaping its mission of scientific discovery, education and conservation. She pioneered the use of diagnostic ultrasound for dolphins, now used worldwide to support endangered species. Under her leadership, Dolphin Quest has funded $8.7 million in 240 research projects across 19 countries, focused on conservation of the most threatened and endangered dolphin species. Dr. Stone bridges veterinary innovation, conservation research and public engagement, demonstrating how science-driven programs protect species and inspire communities to support global marine conservation.
These remarkable women demonstrate that leadership and compassion can change the world for animals and the communities that love and depend on them.
At American Humane Society, we are proud to support and amplify the work of women leading the way in conservation by advancing science-based solutions and humane practices that protect wildlife, restore habitats and inspire the next generation of women advancing animal welfare.
Explore our efforts in safeguarding wildlife and how you can join us in creating a more humane and compassionate world.
