Cheryl Lesko serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for American Humane Society. In her role, Cheryl works closely with the President & CEO, playing a pivotal role in guiding the organization’s strategic direction. Cheryl directly leads philanthropy, marketing, business development, global partnerships and human resources functions. She also ensures that all teams across the organization build and execute aligned strategies that advance the organization’s mission.
For nearly 30 years, Cheryl has been dedicated to serving the missions of animal and conservation related non-profit organizations. As a seasoned leader in fundraising, marketing and non-profit management, she has extensive experience developing and implementing growth strategies that have profound mission impact.
At National 4-H Council, Cheryl developed the national strategy for the organization’s Agriculture Platform and forged corporate partnerships with Fortune 500 companies to support youth across the country. She constructed and led the organization’s Individual Giving department, including events, mass, major and planned giving. Cheryl’s expertise in working with integrated marketing teams for a comprehensive approach to fundraising resulted in national visibility for the organization.
Prior to her role at 4-H, Cheryl advanced major philanthropic activities as vice president at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. There, she built the major gifts program, led major capital campaigns, and managed the planned giving efforts that led to the growth of the Jack Hanna Legacy Society. Cheryl was passionate about securing funding to support the animals in the Zoo’s care, providing educational opportunities and experiences for underserved youth and global conservation efforts.
Cheryl also served as Executive Director for the North Central Region of Canine Companions for Independence, where she oversaw administrative, programmatic, fundraising, marketing and communications operations for the organization’s largest regional office. Cheryl advanced the strategic vision for the region, drove major philanthropic activities and exceeded programmatic goals to serve more people with disabilities.
Throughout her career, Cheryl has fostered high-performing teams and a positive workplace culture grounded in collaboration, compassion and mission-driven leadership.