Jessica Reilly

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN MANAGER

Jessica brings over 25 years of veterinary experience and a lifelong passion for animal care to her role at Pope Memorial Frontier Animal Shelter. Born and raised in West Charleston, Vermont, Jessica's connection to animals began early, nurtured by the many dogs and cats she grew up with and solidified through her time in the Health Careers program at North Country Union High School, where she had the opportunity to shadow a local veterinarian.

In 1998, she enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program at Vermont Technical College in Randolph, VT. After completing her training, Jessica began a 20-year career at Derby Pond Animal Hospital, a mixed animal practice where she built a loyal client base and developed lasting friendships with colleagues and pet owners alike. When the practice changed ownership in 2018, she joined The Animal Doctor in Newport Center, working for Dr. Selina Hunter for five years and continuing to deepen her expertise—particularly in surgical assistance, a lifelong area of interest.

Though she briefly explored human healthcare as a surgical technician at North Country Hospital, Jessica realized her heart belonged to veterinary care. In September, she joined Pope Memorial as the shelter’s first-ever veterinary technician. Her presence has allowed the shelter to offer more in-house care for its animals, improving both efficiency and cost-effectiveness for this nonprofit organization.

Jessica finds deep fulfillment in helping animals feel safe, loved, and healthy during their stay at the shelter. She lives in Derby with her fiancé, Travis, and their daughter Lily, who shares her mother’s love for animals. Their home is joyfully run by three beloved dogs: Lacey Lou, an 11-year-old golden doodle with a heart of gold; Brooklyn Rose, a lively and spirited 4-year-old doodle; and Genie the Weenie, a sweet rescue from Arkansas.

Mary Kate

ADOPTION COUNSELOR & VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Mary Kate grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Pa. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education from Temple University and taught First Grade for many years prior to moving to Vermont in 2010. While substitute teaching and volunteering at various community organizations, she began her involvement with PMFAS in 2011 as a volunteer. Seeing how each animal came to the shelter with a different background and a unique set of circumstances, Mary Kate began to see that her training as a teacher carried over to her work with shelter animals. “Meeting individual needs is what it’s all about for animals and people alike”, states Mary Kate. She was inspired to play a bigger role in the adoption process, and officially joined our staff in 2014. She especially enjoys helping to make successful matches and giving these animals that second chance at a new life. She shares, “Every day they remind us why we do what we do and why we must never give up. We’re transforming their lives and helping to make families, and I simply love being part of that journey.”



Mary Kate shares her home with five rescue cats (two from PMFAS) and her dog, Gordon, also from PMFAS. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and doing anything outside, especially going for walks with Gordon and gardening.

Nathan Lucier

SENIOR DOG ATTENDANT - STAFF

Nate is a lifelong Vermonter with a deep-rooted love for animals, especially dogs. Raised in Barre and Jay, Vermont, he’s always had a four-legged companion by his side and can’t recall a time in his life without a dog. His passion for animal care is matched by a strong background in human services, having worked in personal care since his time at Lyndon State College.

For the past few years, Nate has supported his longtime client and friend, Michel, bringing him to the shelter to volunteer with the cats. That connection led to a new chapter—joining the team at Pope Memorial as a full-time staff member working with dogs.

Now approaching his third full year at the shelter, Nate has become a key part of the canine care team. His calm presence, dedication, and compassion help ensure every dog is safe, loved, and well cared for during their stay. He’s proud to work alongside a knowledgeable and committed crew, all focused on finding the best possible homes for each pup.

Whether he’s walking dogs, helping with training, or just spending time making sure they feel comfortable, Nate brings heart and reliability to everything he does. Be sure to stop by and say hello—he’s always happy to chat and introduce you to your next furry best friend.