Squirrel Friends Wildlife Rescue

Our Board of Directors

Yvette M. Witte, DVM, EMBA, President

Yvette was born and raised in Miami, Florida. Her passion for animal care began early in life and grew into a fulfilling career in veterinary medicine and wildlife conservation. She started her professional journey in 2001 as a veterinary technician and earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Miami in 2008. Driven by a deep commitment to animal welfare, she went on to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña in the Dominican Republic, graduating in 2014.

Throughout her career, Yvette has been involved in various areas of veterinary medicine, with a strong focus on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Her experience extends beyond traditional practice, as she has led meaningful initiatives, including the establishment of a wildlife rescue facility in Fermathe, Haiti, in response to the 2010 earthquake. Since 2005, she has worked with a wide range of species, from crocodiles to primates, further deepening her understanding of wildlife care and rehabilitation.

Today, Yvette focuses on the rehabilitation of small mammals and is committed to expanding the Squirrel Friends Rehabilitator Network to reach more animals in need. Her dedication to conservation and animal welfare continues to drive her mission to protect and rehabilitate vulnerable wildlife, creating a lasting impact on both the animals and the communities she serves.

Marlys D. Johnson, Vice President

Marlys was born in Connecticut and raised in Miami, Florida. She is an executive assistant/office management professional with 30 years of experience. She is proficient at creating, organizing, and maintaining office systems; meeting management and execution; executive calendar management; correspondence; IT/office equipment management and more. Marlys is extremely well organized, innovative, forward-thinking, creative and a significant value to any highly motivated team. Her skills are well-rounded by a pleasant and kind-hearted approach to her colleagues and teammates. Marlys loves all cute critters, although she will not deny being slightly terrified by anything wild that has teeth.

Reeya Banerjee, Treasurer

Reeya has worked in finance and finance-adjacent positions for nearly two decades in the hospitality, food and beverage, music, and veterinary medicine industries in New York.  She is a founding member and former treasurer for SongSmith, a nonprofit based in the Hudson Valley, whose mission is to promote a greater appreciation of the craft of songwriting and a deeper connection to the region’s strong and vital creative community.  Now based in Chattanooga, TN, she is excited to be a part of Squirrel Friends Wildlife Rescue, where she is able to meld her professional background and past nonprofit experience with her lifelong personal passion for animal welfare.

Liz Neely, Secretary

With over two decades of dedicated service in the veterinary medical field, Liz brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the role of Secretary on the Board of Directors. Her extensive background spans various pivotal roles, including administrative assistant, office assistant, and receptionist, underpinned by a consistent commitment to excellence in customer service for over 23 years. Liz’s deep-rooted experience in veterinary medicine and unwavering dedication to animal welfare drive her contributions to the organization, ensuring meticulous attention to governance, documentation, and organizational efficiency. Although her wildlife knowledge is somewhat limited, she does look forward to expanding that knowledge to better advocate for the welfare of all furry Friends.

Stephanie Sabala, Head of Digital Strategy

A native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, began her career in Marketing and Public Relations before following her passion for helping others. Her love for animals started early when she received her first dog, Satira, a gift that sparked a lifelong dedication to their well-being. Now based in New York City, she actively supports various nonprofits, combining her professional expertise with her commitment to helping both people and animals. Known for her positivity, creativity, and team-oriented mindset, Stephanie thrives in collaborative environments where she can make a meaningful impact. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature and cherishing moments with her three dogs: Indie, Miko, and Benito.