Exploring The Success Of Best Friends Animal Society & SUU’s Professional Education Program

Best Friends Animal Society has been honored by Fast Company, earning the 26th spot on the prestigious Best Workplaces for Innovators list. The recognition celebrates the groundbreaking partnership between Best Friends and Southern Utah University (SUU), which has developed a pioneering university-endorsed professional education program focused on lifesaving animal services. This program is the first of its kind, addressing the growing need for skilled professionals in the animal welfare field.

Since its inception in December 2019, the collaboration has created eight professional education courses that offer various alternative credentials, such as SUU certificates, digital badges, and continuing education units (CEUs). These microcredentials can be applied toward SUU degrees, including associate’s, bachelor’s, and select master’s programs, such as the Master of Interdisciplinary Studies (MIS) with a specialization in Contemporary Animal Services Leadership.

The program’s flexible, short-term educational offerings are designed to meet the immediate needs of the animal welfare workforce. As of June 30, 2024, the initiative boasts impressive outcomes, including 1,145 certificates awarded, 910 stackable credits earned, and 14 graduates with MIS degrees. The program has seen an 85% average pass rate, a 60% increase in overall enrollment, and a 34% rise in management-level applications, drawing learners from 49 states.

SUU President Mindy Benson emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “We feel a profound responsibility as partners in delivering quality professional education that empowers animal welfare workers and communities.” Best Friends CEO Julie Castle echoed this sentiment, adding, “Being recognized by Fast Company validates our belief that we must be scrappy, nimble, and collaborative to save the lives of dogs and cats in America’s shelters.”

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The program’s success demonstrates the power of collaboration between higher education and the animal welfare sector, providing participants with the tools to create positive, lasting change in their communities, from shelter management to policy-making.