Darlene Rager, President
I came to Milwaukee from my hometown of Cleveland in April, 2007. Three weeks later looking to meet new friends in a strange city, I became a volunteer at Happy Endings. Naturally outgoing, I have made many friends and even consider some "family". Many shelters struggle with administrative duties; as the owner of a clerical support business, I became increasingly involved with the day-to-day responsibilities. In February, 2010, I joined the Board as the Media Relations/Event Coordinator. With an extensive career in Development, I love finding new venues for fundraising and meeting new people. In my free time, I love movies, music, and, of course, spending time with my fur babies Snowflake and Theo.


Luann Namowicz, Treasurer
I came to Happy Endings in the fall of 2020. My first contact with the shelter was when I requested to come in and tour the shelter for the purpose of recommending Happy Endings as a recipient of a donation from a foundation I was working with. Before long that led to volunteering to be the bookkeeper which eventually led to the Board position of Treasurer. I am an avid lover of all animals but cats have had a special part in my life and my heart from my earliest memories. I currently have two cats, both tuxedos – Lincoln & Lucy.


Karen Jacobs, Secretary
I was first introduced to Happy Endings in the fall of 1997 when my sister adopted Phoebe, a beautiful Calico. At the time there was a great need for foster homes. The next thing I knew, I was fostering expectant mothers and many kittens. Eventually I started to volunteer on Saturdays for Open House. In 2000, I joined the Board and given my copious note taking skills, became the Board Secretary. In addition, I also respond to the phone calls on the shelter voicemail. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, spending time with my friends and, of course, spending quality time with my cats.


Karen Lien, Grant Writer
I became involved with Happy Endings as a foster in 2015. Little One was a semi-feral that desperately needed a calm home that accepted her for who she was, while she recovered from major medical procedures done to save her life. We bonded over scores of vet visits and countless hand feedings, and she became my foster fail and permanent member of my household. Most shelters would have euthanized Little One, but Happy Endings wouldn’t even consider it. I knew then what a special and unique place Happy Endings was and what a necessary service they provide to cats in the area. 
I have a professional background in allied healthcare and a passion for research and evidenced-based practices. My dedication to research will allow me to focus on grant writing and finding much needed funds for the shelter. I also continue to foster. I would love to grow and enhance the foster program and find ways to support any volunteer that decides to open their home to a cat who needs it.   
In my spare time I love Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, traveling, spending time outdoors, playing Dungeons and Dragons, and spending time with my husband, Arthur. If you're looking for me, I'm probably at the gym coaching jiu jitsu or taking a class of my own. I also love to spend time with our cats Little One, Finn, and our newest addition from Happy Endings, Jake.