Little Guild names new director

The Little Guild of St. Francis, the Northwest Corner’s only full-service animal shelter, recently hired Abigail Cusick, of Falls Village, as its new director. She will assume the role Monday.

Cusick most recently served as Director of Social Media for Bravo Television and brings extensive marketing expertise to the role.

Justin Vagliano has held the position of Executive Director since January 1, 2017.

“The timing of this leadership transition seems ideal,” Little Guild Board President John Guenther said, noting that Vagliano’s role was designed as an interim assignment. “Justin’s professionalism, business acumen and strategic leadership skills have helped us strengthen our processes and culture, improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of our operation and develop a blueprint for our future. We are indebted to him for his contributions. Abigail’s passion, energy and marketing expertise will help us build on Justin’s accomplishments and advance our long-range strategic plan. I’m confident our supporters will enjoy getting to know her and will appreciate that the organization is in very capable hands.”

Guenther also noted that Ashley Innella, the Little Guild’s Shelter Manager, and the strong team she has built, will help provide continuity at the organization.

Vagliano shared his positive outlook on the leadership change: “Abigail is a thoughtful, creative and engaging leader. The Little Guild is a wonderful organization helping cats, dogs and families in our extended community. We provide meaningful services and there is even more that we can do. Abigail shares our vision, and she has the perfect skills to bring that vision to reality.”

Cusick expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity. “I have been a supporter of the Little Guild for many years and look forward to advancing the organization’s mission,” she said. “As an owner of a rescue dog myself, I know firsthand how important it is to focus on the animals so that they have successful transitions into their new forever homes.”

The Little Guild of St. Francis, which opened in Cornwall in 1960, saves abused, neglected and abandoned animals and finds them new homes. It also offers services to help keep pets and families together.

The Little Guild of St. Francis, which opened in Cornwall in 1960, provides shelter and care for homeless cats and dogs, supports their transition to their new homes through education and enrichment for both animals and adopters, and assists the broader community with such activities as no-cost vaccine clinics, a free pet food pantry, children’s programs, and training classes. The Little Guild also offers services to help keep pets and families together. For information, visit www.littleguild.org.