Member Spotlight: Get to Know TyAnn Sumpter

“I believe the future of animal welfare lies in meeting people where they are,” says SPCA of Brazoria County’s recently minted Executive Director. Read on for the philosophy behind the moves that TyAnn Sumpter’s making at the Texas organization

Name & Title: TyAnn Sumpter, Executive Director
Organization: SPCA of Brazoria County

The Association: Describe yourself in three words.
TyAnn Sumpter: Driven. Compassionate. Innovative.

The Association: Describe your organization in three words.
TyAnn Sumpter: Community-focused. Lifesaving. Evolving.

The Association: How did you get started in animal welfare, and how did you land in the role you are today?
TyAnn Sumpter: My path into animal welfare was not a traditional one. Before entering the field, I owned and managed multiple businesses, where I developed a strong foundation in operations, leadership, finance, and customer service. When I transitioned into animal welfare, I quickly realized that many of the same principles that make organizations successful, like clear systems, strong teams, and community engagement, also save animal lives.

I began working directly in shelter operations and community cat programs, focusing on removing barriers to services and creating programs that better served both animals and the people who care for them. Over time, I took on increasing leadership responsibilities, working with municipal shelters, nonprofit organizations, and national partners to improve outcomes through data-driven decision making and practical solutions.

Today, I serve as the Executive Director of SPCA of Brazoria County, where I have the opportunity to combine my business background with my passion for animal welfare. My focus is building sustainable programs, strengthening community partnerships, supporting staff development, and increasing lifesaving outcomes for the animals we serve.

The Association: Considering your career so far, what achievement are you most proud of?
TyAnn Sumpter: The achievement I am most proud of is the lasting community impact created through the development and expansion of a community cat program in Florence County, South Carolina. What began as an effort to address community cat populations grew into something much larger—transforming how the organization engaged with the public and how the community viewed animal welfare. The program helped build trust with residents, created new opportunities for community involvement, and served as a gateway for people who had never previously engaged with the shelter. As a result, we saw increased volunteer participation, stronger community support, greater donor engagement, and ultimately more adoptions and positive outcomes for animals.

What makes me most proud is that the impact extended far beyond the cats themselves. The program demonstrated how removing barriers, meeting people where they are, and providing practical solutions can strengthen the relationship between a shelter and its community. Knowing that those changes continue to influence how the organization serves both people and animals today is incredibly rewarding.

The Association: What is your next goal or milestone you’re working toward, professionally or personally?
TyAnn Sumpter: My next goal is to continue strengthening the SPCA of Brazoria County’s role within our community. I want our organization to be seen as a resource, not just a place people turn to in times of crisis. Whether someone needs help keeping their pet, accessing affordable services, navigating a behavioral challenge, or finding support during difficult circumstances, I want them to know we are here to help.

I believe the future of animal welfare lies in meeting people where they are and addressing challenges before they become emergencies. By expanding community partnerships, increasing access to resources, and building trust with the public, my goal is to create a stronger safety net for both people and pets throughout Brazoria County.

The Association: Words to live by?
TyAnn Sumpter: Lead with compassion, build with purpose, and never lose sight of the people and animals you’re serving.