New Humane Society Director Named

Heidi Yates is the new executive director of the Cherryland Humane Society in Traverse City. Yates replaces former director Mike Cherry, who retired in March after 26 years of leading the organization.

Yates brings more than 15 years of animal welfare experience to her new post. She has been the executive director of Humane Society & Animal Rescue of Muskegon County since late 2011. Under her leadership the shelter was recognized in 2013 for its improvements by The Michigan Pet Fund Alliance. Prior to joining the Muskegon Humane Society, she was at Harbor Humane Society (in West Olive, Mich.) for seven years serving as its development director and four years as its executive director.