Wildlife Protection Leader Marks 15 Years Championing Captive Animal Welfare and Anti-Trafficking Efforts

Angela Grimes is celebrating a remarkable 15-year milestone as CEO of Born Free USA, a period marked by transformative growth in wildlife protection and advocacy. Under her leadership, the organization has emerged as a formidable force in combating captive wild animal abuse, circus exploitation, illegal exotic pet trade, and international wildlife trafficking. Grimes has distinguished herself in the challenging nonprofit landscape through what colleagues describe as "warm, friendly, fair, and firm" leadership that has driven both organizational growth and increased professionalism. Her approach has enabled Born Free USA to punch far above its weight, establishing the organization as a powerful advocate for animals trapped in zoos, circuses, and private ownership situations. The organization's impact extends globally, with particularly notable success in West and Central Africa, where Born Free USA has developed crucial capacity-building programs and enforcement initiatives. These efforts directly support local conservation work and strengthen wildlife protection measures across regions facing intense pressure from illegal wildlife trade. Kate Dylewsky of the Animal Welfare Institute praised Grimes' evolution from fundraising leader to CEO, noting how her leadership has created "a workplace where staff are empowered and where principles of compassion and respect for animals are always the north star." This leadership style has fostered deep loyalty among staff and partners while maintaining focus on the organization's core mission of protecting wild animals from exploitation and abuse. As Born Free USA enters its next chapter under Grimes' continued leadership, the organization remains positioned at the forefront of critical wildlife protection issues.