Paul Thompson, President
An active resident of St. Johns County, Paul Thompson brings both commercial and non-profit expertise to the board of Ayla’s Acres.  Involved since 1986 with the firm of Thompson Realty and Development and currently it’s President, Paul has been on the boards of the Association for Retarded Citizens/ARC of the St. Johns, the St. Augustine Historic Society (both as President) and is currently a member of the Rotary Club of St. Augustine and Ancient City Auto Club.  A long time animal supporter and proud “father” of three dogs Paul leads the board of Ayla’s Acres with insight and compassion.

 

Robert F. MacSwain, President-Elect
Currently retired, Bob MacSwain was the former President of MacSwain and Company in Canton, MA, and former Vice-Chairman of Florida East Coast Industries, Florida East Coast Railway and Flagler Development Industries. Bob currently sits on the board of the Flagler Hospital Foundation. An expert in long-range planning, Bob’s experience, combined with his desire to better his community, allow him to help lead the Board of Directors of Ayla’s Acres with clear vision.  As a Notre Dame graduate and an ardent supporter of the Fighting Irish, Bob lends the same enthusiasm to Ayla’s Acres and the plight of animals in our region.

 

Sandra Harmon, Secretary
Former owner and manager of Paso Fino del Mar, Inc., equine care and training, Sandie Harmon brings many years of hands-on experience in working with animals.  Combined with her financial acumen as a past registered representative of MHA Financial Corporation, Sandie is an integral part of the planning process for Ayla’s Acres.  With her compassion for all animals (and children) Sandie sets an enviable standard for animal rights.

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Fran Charlson, Director
Sitting on the Board of Directors, as well as current Executive Director of Ayla’s Acres No-Kill Animal Rescue, Fran Charlson brings a plethora of experience in both the business and animal worlds. Fran holds a BS in Public Relations with a minor in marketing and is a twenty-year veteran of the biotech/pharmaceutical industry. She spent a large portion of her career as Vice-President, Human Resources, of Protein Design Labs, Inc. Having a lifetime love of all animals, Fran served on the Partnership Council of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) in from 2004 through 2012. She was chair of the HSUS San Francisco Art Action in 2008 as well as co-chair of the 2010 HSUS Jordan Winery Special Event. Fran has taken course work on dog behavior and assessment and has worked as a volunteer with dogs, birds, pigs and horses at the Best Friends sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. She has also been a Mid-Peninsula Humane Society Volunteer in their wildlife division.  Fran maintains her membership with HSUS and the ASPCA. Fran’s vision, skill set and absolute love for all animals have placed her in the role of leader at Ayla’s Acres.