Gala Awardees

2022 Heroes Awardees

Legislator of the Year

Erika Strassburger

Councilperson to District 8

In 2021, Councilperson Strassburger introduced and passed a ban on single use plastic bags and fee on single use paper bags.

Councilperson Strassburger is not only a longtime advocate for clean air and water policies (including working for the overhaul of Pittsburgh’s outdated municipal water and recycling codes) but an advocate for the people sharing those environments.

Passionate about preventing/ending gender discrimination and promoting equitable, diverse communities, Councilperson Erika Strassburger embodies a holistic humane career.

Compassionate Living Award

Karen Phillips

Hope Haven Farm Sanctuary

Karen Philips started her career (which she continues full-time) as a veterinary surgeon serving cats, dogs, birds, etc.

Over time, Karen noticed farm animals surrendered to the shelter at increasing rates. The shelter was under-equipped to care for the pot bellied pigs and geese coming in, but Karen determined she would be.

Initially conceived in 2008, Karen purchased Hope Haven’s property in 2011 and for over a decade has maintained it as a Sanctuary to both the animals and people it serves, including through its robust social media presence:

@hopehavenfarmsanctuary on Instagram &@hopehavenfarmsanctuary on TikTok

Monumental Achievement Award

Dan Rossi

Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh.

Serving as HARP’s CEO for 12 years, Dan Rossi led the organization through the merger of Animal Rescue League and Western Pennsylvania Humane Society to create HARP, one of the largest animal welfare organizations in Pennsylvania.

Dan also guided HARP through their massive relocation campaign to the Animal Resource Center in the East End.

Continuing his commitment to animal welfare, Dan Rossi’s next *monumental achievements* so to speak, will happen as Executive Director of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter in California.