Morris Animal Foundation appoints new chief program officer

Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) announced that Kathy Tietje, PhD, MBA, has accepted the role of the chief program officer. Tietje, MAF’s former vice president of science operations, was the interim leader for the scientific programs team and served on the Foundation’s executive team.

“This is a strategic shift for Morris Animal Foundation to continue our growth as the leading funder advancing animal health studies and initiatives,” said Tiffany Grunert, president and CEO of Morris Animal Foundation, in an organizational release.¹ “Dr Tietje has extensive background in research operations, project management, grantmaking, and product development. After working with her over the last six months in the interim role, it’s clear she is the ideal candidate to lead granting and internal research functions."

Tietje joined MAF in 2019 as senior director of Golden Retriever Lifetime Study and in 2020 became vice president of scientific operations. According to the release,¹ Tietje will now be responsible for the Scientific Grants Program, Golden Retriever Lifetime Stud, and oversight and scientific direction of the CitizenPet. She will also closely collaborate with the MAF’s development and marketing teams providing support for communication efforts with its marketing team.

“The Foundation has a rich history of funding scientific research to advance animal health, and I am honored to help safeguard that legacy as we move into the future,” said Tietje.¹ “Animal health is tied inextricably to human health, and it’s exciting for me to serve an organization whose mission is focused on the animals that share our homes and our environment.”

Reference

Morris Animal Foundation announces new Chief Program Officer. News release. March 30, 2023. Accessed March 30, 2023.