Dakin Humane Society Recognizes Five Long-time Employees

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society recently honored five staff members who reached their 10th year of employment at a team ceremony held at its Springfield location. The five employees were given gift bags that contained, among other items, a personalized zip-up hoodie with the Dakin logo as well as their first name followed by the title ‘Dakin Legend.’

The recognition effort was funded by an anonymous Dakin supporter who feels passionately about team members being by far the greatest asset to Dakin and the animals who enter the organization’s care.

The five team members honored are Kayla Begnoche, humane resources manager; Albert Fuster, maintenance technician; Marisol Lopez, veterinary technician; Amanda Rock, senior animal resource counselor; and Sarah Pentowski, admissions and capacity coordinator.

“Last year, we proudly introduced our Dakin Legends and honored 13 staff members who have dedicated 10 or more years to our mission. This year, we continued the tradition by celebrating our newest Legends, who reached their 10-year milestones in 2025,” Executive Director Meg Talbert said. “It is truly a joy to recognize these remarkable individuals who pour their hearts into their work every single day, providing compassionate care to pets in need and supporting the countless people in our community who love their companions.”

Currently, more than 20% of Dakin’s staff have worked for the nonprofit organization for at least 10 years, while 44% were hired five or more years ago.