Roger Haston, PhD, MBA

President, The Institute for Animals

Roger Haston is a recognized world leader in animal welfare through his research and public speaking. Dr. Haston received a Ph.D. in geophysics from the University of California Santa Barbara and an MBA in finance from Rice University. In 2012, he committed himself full-time to animal welfare, taking on the position of Executive Director at the Animal Assistance Foundation. In 2016, Dr. Haston joined PetSmart Charities, North America’s leading funder of animal welfare, as the organization’s Chief Analytics Officer. In 2019, Dr. Haston recognized a need for a deeper level of science and analysis in the industry and started The Institute for Animals which focuses on strategy, research, advocacy insight and thought leadership. With nearly 20 years’ experience in animal welfare, Dr. Haston has become an internationally recognized leader in data, trends, metrics and analysis conveyed through impactful and approachable storytelling. He is a highly sought-after speaker who has presented on a number of animal welfare and economic topics at conferences and events around the world. Dr. Haston has served on the boards of Humane Society of Boulder Valley, Colorado Pet Overpopulation Fund, PetAid Colorado, Catalyst Council, Emancipet, Animal Grant Makers, National Council on Pet Population and Shelter Animals Count.