Stanislaus Animal Services Agency (SASA) has appointed Deborah “Deb” Thrasher as its new executive director. Thrasher begins her duties on Monday.
Thrasher will oversee SASA’s operations and work closely with employees, the board, volunteers, rescue organizations, and the community to strengthen service delivery, advance animal welfare, and support the residents and animals SASA serves.
The city of Ceres contracts with SASA for animal control services.
She succeeds Interim Executive Director Craig Gundlach, who will continue serving in a part-time capacity to support the leadership transition.
“I’m honored to take on this role and look forward to working with the dedicated employees, volunteers, rescue partners, and community members who care so deeply about the animals and people we serve,” said Thrasher. “I believe strong organizations are built by listening, working together, and supporting the people doing the work. My priority will be to build on those strengths, foster open communication, and work collaboratively to provide compassionate, responsive animal services to our community.”
Thrasher most recently served as Assistant Director of the Stanislaus County Health Services Agency (HSA), following previous leadership roles as Planning and Quality Manager and Project Manager. Her responsibilities included oversight of human relations, contracts, facilities, procurement, compliance, and other administrative functions, as well as supporting the agency’s administrative budget. Her experience also includes facilitating complex organizational initiatives and contributing to the County’s COVID-19 response.
Earlier in her career, Thrasher served as an Emergency Services Manager with the County’s Office of Emergency Services, overseeing emergency management programs and coordinating preparedness efforts with all nine Stanislaus County cities, state agencies, and community partners. Her work included developing emergency operations and hazard mitigation plans, administering federal emergency management and homeland security grants, and coordinating emergency operations center activations.
Thrasher holds a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Behavior from the University of the Pacific, where she graduated summa cum laude. She also earned an Executive Credential through the California State Association of Counties Institute in 2026.
“Ms. Thrasher brings the experience, leadership, and collaborative approach needed to guide an organization with complex responsibilities and high community expectations,” said Jewel Warr, chair of the SASA Joint Powers Authority Board. “Her proven ability to navigate operational challenges, support employees, and build strong partnerships gives us confidence in her ability to lead the agency forward.”
For more information about Stanislaus Animal Services Agency, visit StanislausAnimalServices.com.
