FAIRHOPE, Ala. — The Baldwin Animal Rescue Center’s (BARC) board of directors has named Katherine Eddy as its new executive director.

Eddy spent 15 years in governmental public affairs in California, and taught at California State University-Bakersfield for 10 years. She and her family recently moved to Fairhope.

“We’re fortunate to have someone with Kathy’s experience and skills to help lead BARC,” said Tracy Holiday, president of BARC’s board of directors.

“I’m delighted to be part of BARC. BARC has been the leader in the efforts to rescue abused and abandoned animals in Baldwin County for nearly 30 years,” Eddy said. “BARC has a great group of volunteers who help us with our programs. When I saw the dedication of the volunteers and staff, I knew I wanted to be part of BARC.”

BARC provides adoption and rescue services for dogs and cats, promotes humane treatment of animals, hosts pet adoption events throughout the year, and assists families who must find new homes for pets due to death or illness. BARC also assists soon-to-be deployed military personnel in placing their pets in new homes or with foster families.

BARC offers low-cost spay and neuter programs to residents of Baldwin County. BARC does not operate animal shelters, nor does it provide animal control services. BARC operates on donations and grants, and does not receive government funding.

Eddy succeeds interim executive director John Reuss, who stepped in when the former executive director Rob Walker became ill in 2005. Reuss will continue to serve on BARC’s board of directors.