CENTRAL POINT, OR – On Monday, April 21st during Dogs for Better Lives’ (DBL) quarterly meeting the National Board of Directors unanimously approved new director, Chris Schalg (NH).
DBL’s national board also recognized board members Stacy Tollie (NC) and Garrett West (OR) for their service, as each of their terms are nearing completion. Both were recognized with plaques, thanking them for their six years serving on the national board.
With the departure of Garrett West and Stacy Tollie and the new appointment of Chris Schlag, DBL’s national board moves to 21 voting members.
National board chair Tom Dobry also recognized University of Washington’s FOSTER School of Business’ Board Fellows Matt Brannon and Katie Hanschen for oversight on their yearlong Puppy Transportation Logistics Project. This culminated with a presentation at the April board meeting, providing several recommendations to DBL for future consideration with dog transportation.
Outside of four directors from across Oregon, the national board includes members residing in nine other states across the country, including California (3), District of Columbia, Massachusetts (4), North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington (4).
“The board of directors are pleased to welcome Chris Schlag onto DBL’s National Board,” stated Board Chairman Tom Dobry. “With Chris’ expertise in environmental and sustainability law, she will quickly help to augment DBL’s national board and its diversifying presence across the northeast region. We are also so appreciative of the invaluable contributions Matt and Katie made as board fellows throughout this fiscal year.”
Also, during the April board meeting, new officers were selected for FY25-26 starting July 1st, including chair Tim Cibula, vice chair CarrieJo Hoelzel, secretary Emily Nelson, and treasurer Stephanie Deines.
“As DBL further advances its national presence, Chris Schlag will quickly help DBL to further solidify its board presence in the northeast region,” stated CEO Bryan Williams. “Additionally, we’re appreciative of her environmental law background, which helps to diversify expertise represented on the board. We are also so appreciative of Stacy Tollie and Garrett West’s numerous contributions and invaluable service to DBL and its national board.”
Chris Schlag
Chris Schlag
Chris Schlag is an environmental and sustainability attorney who advises companies on navigating complex environmental, social, and governance issues to build brand and business resiliency. She works with executives and cross-functional teams to develop actionable strategies in areas such as climate risks and opportunities, land use, packaging, human rights, green chemistry, and animal welfare. With over a decade of legal experience, Chris supports clients across industries—from routine compliance to crisis response and resolution of complex disputes.
Chris earned her law degree, cum laude, from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and has degrees in environmental health, occupational safety, and environmental management. A frequent speaker and writer on environmental and sustainability trends, she is known for translating complex technical issues into clear, business-focused legal guidance.
Alongside her legal practice, Chris has a deep love for animals and lifelong obsession with dogs. She believes animals bring joy, connection, and well-being to people’s lives and is passionate about using her skills to advance animal welfare through advocacy and action. Chris has also seen firsthand how dogs can help people maintain active and healthier lives. In her spare time, Chris enjoys spending time with her husband Matt and their dog Mordecai. She is also an avid hiker and kickboxer.
“I’m deeply honored to serve on the Board of Directors for Dogs for Better Lives,” stated Chris. “The organization’s focus on supporting vulnerable communities, helping people with disabilities, and ensuring the well-being and fulfillment of assistance dogs creates so many opportunities to transform lives. I’m thrilled to support DBL’s mission and eager to help the organization continue to grow and thrive.”
To learn more about DBL’s National Board of Directors and/or with inquiries in joining the board, visit… https://bit.ly/2BrQZfU. You can also visit DBL’s profile on cariclub and Boardlead to learn more.
