The Association Blog

The Director of Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter shares the benefits of being a CAWA—and reveals the one food she could eat every day.

Name & Title: Triniti Halverson, Director, Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter
Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) Since: April 2023

The Association: When did you first decide to take the CAWA exam, and why?
Triniti Halverson: My background is in Public Health, and prior to transitioning to animal welfare, I was a Certified Health Education Specialist. This certification was something I was very proud of, and I wanted to find a comparable credential in animal welfare. The CAWA certification fit that need, representing a significant professional achievement and a commitment to excellence in the field.

The Association: Describe your current role as Director at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter. What are some of your day-to-day responsibilities?
Triniti Halverson: As the Director at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter, my days are quite varied. We are in the midst of a capital campaign, so a significant portion of my time is dedicated to touring and courting potential donors. I meet with each of my direct reports weekly, and we have either a staff meeting or a leadership team meeting once a week. Additionally, I am involved in board relations, budgeting, and overseeing the overall operations of the shelter. No two days are the same, and flexibility is key.

The Association: How has becoming a CAWA impacted your career?
Triniti Halverson: Becoming a CAWA has elevated my professional standing within the community. It has enhanced the way other business professionals perceive me, adding a level of credibility and seriousness to my role in animal welfare.

The Association: Favorite professional development resource or tip?
Triniti Halverson: The professional development opportunity that has made the biggest impact on my career in animal welfare is staying connected with the University of Wisconsin Shelter Medicine program. Throughout my entire career, networking and continuous learning from peers have been invaluable.

The Association: What’s your one piece of practical advice for those considering the CAWA program?
Triniti Halverson: Start studying early! I waited a bit too long and ended up having to cram, which was stressful. However, that might just be my personality. Planning and giving yourself ample time to prepare can make a big difference.

The Association: You can invite 5 people from all of history to dinner. Who’s at the table, and what are you eating?
Triniti Halverson: We would definitely be eating tacos, because I could eat tacos every day. I recently read The Art of Gathering, so I would want to consider whether to meet each person individually or all together. My guest list would include:

• Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her husband Martin D. Ginsburg, as I am fascinated by how they supported each other throughout their careers;
• Marianne North, because of my obsession with plants, and
• Jane Goodall, because who wouldn’t want to meet her?!

Essentially, I would invite powerhouse women who have made significant impacts in their respective fields.

Learn More

How to Become a CAWA
Meet a CAWA: Stacey Price
Meet a CAWA: Jeana Roth