Our Team

Person sitting in a botanical garden, holding a red rose with white baby's breath flowers, in front of a waterfall feature with lush green plants surrounding.

Khadijih Mitchell - Founder & Board of Director Executive Director

Khadijih Mitchell has been an entrepreneur in the wellness space since 2021. In addition to her role with PAWS, she is also a sole proprietor doing business as SoulJourney Wellness. Khadijih is passionate about human and animal welfare and advocates for nonviolent, compassionate ways of interacting with and rehabilitating animals. She integrates science, spirituality, and animal psychology to help create a space where animals and people can heal, connect, and thrive.

Black and white portrait of a person wearing glasses and a baseball cap, with long hair and a slight smile, standing in sunlight against a wall.

Hannah Rich - Co Founder & Board of Director Vice President

Hannah has a background in physics, astronomy, and holistic care, receiving both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in Physics. She is a creative and authentic leader with a deep passion for animal welfare, animal psychology, and holistic wellness. With a wide range of knowledge across multiple disciplines, Hannah combines her scientific expertise with a heart-centered approach to support the well-being of animals through compassionate care and ethical practices.

A woman with blonde hair wearing glasses, a necklace, and a dark jacket, posing for a selfie outdoors with trees and buildings in the background.

Natalie Gould - Co Founder & Board of Directors Secretary

Natalie is a dedicated animal lover and advocate for creating supportive, compassionate communities. With a background in special education and human connection, she is committed to fostering inclusive environments where all individuals, human and animal, can thrive. A proud mother and avid baker, Natalie values nurturing body and spirit. Growing up with pets, including fosters, she now shares her home with two golden retrievers, fueling her dedication to promoting wellness through mindfulness and heart-cohesion for animals and people.

Victor Gonzalez - Marketing & Social Media Volunteer

Victor is a marketing professional with a passion for creating engaging campaigns and telling stories that connect with people. He loves blending strategy and creativity to bring ideas to life, turning concepts into content that resonates and inspires. Outside of marketing, Victor enjoys photography, hiking, and exploring new places, always looking for fresh perspectives and creative sparks. He’s inspired by the stories people carry and believes every interaction is an opportunity to learn something new.

Tiffany Shimizu - Community Engagement & Marketing Volunteer

Tiffany has a masters degree in marketing with a specialization in marketing intelligence and strategy. She possesses a profound passion for creative storytelling and event marketing, complemented by a strong background in animal care and welfare. Tiffany is a Colorado native who loves to travel, hike and spend time with her husband, three kids and two fur babies. She is enthusiastic about contributing to this mission of a secure environment where animals and humans can engage in meaningful interactions, fostering healing and mutual learning.

Jolene Seville - Strategic Outreach Coordinator Volunteer

Jolene is a dedicated animal advocate and storyteller with a passion for building connections between people and animals. With over a decade of experience in the pet industry spanning nutrition, enrichment, behavior, and brand development, she brings deep knowledge and heart to everything she does. Combining her background in canine wellness with her skills in digital marketing, she fosters partnerships and community support that create meaningful change. A lifelong dog mom and lover of the outdoors, Jolene is committed to creating spaces where healing, education, and connection can thrive for both animals and people.

Ruby Barresi - Professional Marketing Consultant

Ruby brings a proven track record in digital marketing and e-commerce, having led growth for brands like Magnetic Me and Riva Precision Jewelry. She uses her skills to help PAWS connect with more hearts (and paws) through thoughtful online engagement. At home, Ruby shares life with Spark, a spirited five-year-old Boston Terrier–Chihuahua mix, who reminds her daily why this work matters.

A woman with red hair, wearing glasses and a nose ring, poses for a selfie. She is wearing a black tank top and a necklace, with sunlight illuminating her face.

Nellie Lozoya - Creative Brand Strategist

Nellie is a visionary creative with a passion for global change. She is planning to pursue a degree in Fine Arts and Entrepreneurial Business, blending her artistic talents with strategic thinking to make a meaningful impact. A lifelong animal lover, Nellie is dedicated to supporting ethical and sustainable initiatives that promote the well-being of animals and the planet.

Person with dark hair wearing a white t-shirt and earphones standing in front of rocky landscape with trees.

Orion Lozoya - Daily Operations Volunteer

Orion is a creative artist who enjoys spending time with his furry companions and has a passion for making music, upcycling clothing, and skateboarding. Orion contributes to PAWS by helping care for the animals and supporting the early stages of the sanctuary’s development.