Animal Rescue League CEO Alexis Pagoulatos will exit from the role to pursue a new executive-level position in animal welfare in Utah after four years of leading remarkable growth in lifesaving and community programs in Berks County. The ARL’s Board of Directors approved the transition plan and appointed Chief Development Officer Ashley Mikulsky as the Acting CEO.
“I’m grateful for Alexis’s visionary leadership in guiding the ARL the past four years,” said Tom Hubric, president of the ARL’s board of directors. “Alexis’ strategic vision led the ARL to unprecedented successes in supporting the transformation of the shelter and the communities we serve. Ashley and Alexis will work closely to ensure a smooth leadership transition and continue supporting our community.”
Under Pagoulatos’ leadership, the ARL became a nationally recognized animal shelter, receiving awards and grants from industry leaders such as Best Friends, Maddie’s Fund, and the Petco Foundation.
“It’s impossible to acknowledge everyone who has played a special role, but I want to thank everyone who held this organization on their strong shoulders throughout the years and thank the new leaders who will take the baton and champion ARL in the next phase of its journey,” said Pagoulatos.
“I will be forever grateful to the staff and board for the opportunity to be part of this outstanding team that makes such a positive difference in animal welfare in Berks County.”
Pagoulatos and Mikulsky had worked side by side since February 2020, when Mikulsky returned to the organization after working in various roles at the ARL for ten years, from 2005-2015. As Chief Development Officer, Mikulsky has overseen and strengthened key strategic partnerships with leading community organizations such as the Berks County Community Foundation, United Way, and the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance and has significantly grown charitable revenue streams and the donor base.
“The Animal Rescue League has been incredibly fortunate to have grown and professionalized during Alexis’ tenure,” said Mikulsky. “The ARL will continue her good work during this transition while staying committed to serving those in need throughout our community as we always have.”
Before returning to the ARL, Mikulsky served as Major Gift Officer at Alvernia University, where she founded the university’s thriving Women’s Council, as Director of Development at Junior Achievement of Southeastern PA, and as Director of Development of the ARL, where she also served in several operational roles related to community outreach and feline care from 2005-2015.
Mikulsky was recently named Berks County’s Meggan Kerber Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2022. She holds a Master of Business degree from Alvernia University and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Biotechnology and Conservation from Delaware Valley University.
