Board of Directors

OUR TEAM

Board of Directors

Dana Christy, Board Chair

Retired Executive | Independent member since 2024

Dana Christy brings over 40 years of dedicated experience in animal welfare to her role as Board Chair of HALO. Her journey began at the age of 12, when she took her first job at her local animal shelter, igniting a lifelong passion for animal advocacy. With two decades of fostering for HALO, Dana has provided loving temporary homes for countless animals, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to their well-being.

Dana’s extensive leadership experience includes serving as the Executive Director of the Arizona Animal Welfare League, where she spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance animal care and adoption services. She has also held key positions on the boards of two other prominent animal welfare organizations, serving as Board Chair for both. Dana’s comprehensive background in board leadership and her deep-rooted dedication to animal welfare make her an invaluable asset to HALO’s mission of protecting and improving the lives of animals in need.

Dustin Diehl, Board Member Marketing Strategist

Independent member since 2025

​Dustin Diehl is a marketing strategist with two decades of experience helping organizations define and share their message. A longtime animal lover who grew up in Arizona, Dustin lives in Phoenix with his partner, Shawn, and two dogs, Frankie and Willow (who was adopted from HALO in 2022). From brand development to integrated marketing strategy, Dustin is excited to leverage his expertise in support of HALO’s mission.

Jeff Burleson , Board Member

​Jeff Burleson brings nearly two decades of experience in retail leadership, customer experience, and nonprofit engagement. A lifelong animal advocate, Jeff adopted his first dog from HALO during the Grand Opening of PetSmart’s Everyday Adoption Center in Deer Valley in 2011—a moment that deepened his commitment to rescue work and the animal welfare community.

As the leader of the PetSmart In-Store Experience team for the U.S. and Canada, Jeff oversees the collection and analysis of pet parent feedback and insights, customer service behaviors, in-store events, and the in-store adoption program in partnership with PetSmart Charities. His work has been instrumental in driving community-focused innovation and strengthening the connection between PetSmart and millions of pet parents. Since joining PetSmart in 2007, Jeff has held a variety of roles spanning property management, PetSmart Charities, store operations, and store strategy. His contributions have helped PetSmart Charities achieve the milestone of over 11 million pets saved through its in-store adoption program.

 

Beyond his professional work, Jeff has dedicated himself to nonprofit service. He has served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for unhoused youth and as a committee member of the PetSmart Associate Assistance Foundation, providing support to associates in times of need. With over 15 years of nonprofit involvement, Jeff is excited to bring his expertise, compassion, and leadership to support HALO’s mission of rescuing and rehoming animals in need.

Claudia Grajeda

Claudia Grajeda was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA where she attended UCLA and UC Hastings for law school. She credits her love for animals to her father who always reminds her they often count on us for consideration and protection. After graduating from law school she moved to Arizona and learned about HALO after her dog, Chikita, crossed the rainbow bridge. As an estate planning attorney, Claudia understands the meaning behind leaving a legacy. As such, she hopes to contribute to HALO in a meaningful way that continues to foster positive change and opportunities for animals.

Chris Piesbergen

Chris Piesbergen, a St Louis native who found a new home in Phoenix in 2021, holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and an MBA from Lindenwood University. Chris brings over 15 years of experience in financial planning, analysis, and strategic decision-making. He currently serves as Senior Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis at Vitalant, guiding budgeting and financial modeling efforts to support critical blood donation services nationwide. Chris is passionate about using his professional expertise to support organizations that improve lives—both human and animal. He is excited to contribute to HALO’s mission of saving the lives of homeless pets through adoption, advocacy, and community engagement.