Meet our Staff

Kerry Feilmeier- Executive Director

Originally from Utica, South Dakota, Kerry first began working with Heartland in September, 2011 and has been employed by nonprofit agencies since 2007. Kerry is a graduate of the University of South Dakota with a major in marketing, journalism, and English. In her spare time, Kerry enjoys helping on the family farm, fostering, live music and travel.

You can email Kerry at edirector@sdheartlandhumanesociety.com.

Madison Schwartz- Assistant Director

Originally from Bon Homme area, Madison returned back to South Dakota and accepted the role at HHS in December, 2024. Madison has an animal science background from SDSU and has lived in both Colorado and Texas. Her two huskies keep her on her toes and she enjoys spending time with them and with family. 

You can email Madison at info@sdheartlandhumanesociety.com.

Abi Benson - Community Programming Director

Abi has called Yankton home since 2013, moving with her family from Nebraska. Her husband, Brian, and children Willa and Finn love the lake life accommodations of living in Yankton. Previously, Abi was an elementary teacher. Her role at HHS will put her smack back into the community, overseeing community programming for HHS and assisting with volunteer relations. 

You can email Abi at donate@sdheartlandhumanesociety.com 

Dr. Sam Mehlhaf - Veterinarian / Animal Care

Dr. Sam and her husband live near Menno, SD on the family farm. Dr. Sam spends a portion of her week at HHS, and a portion of her week at Sioux Nation Ag - Scotland location. She has previously worked in Yankton, Vermillion and Sioux Falls as well. 

You can email Dr Sam at intake@sdheartlandhumanesociety.com 

Janette Kaddatz - Adoption & Animal Behavior Coordinator

Janette’s passion for animals began as a child growing up in North Dakota with pets and spending every summer on her grandparent’s farm. She dreamed of vet school but chose a different path and pursued a degree in family science and psychology. She is one of the founding volunteers of Heartland Humane Society and decided to become involved with the organization because of her passion for working with animals and the desire to be involved with placing unwanted animals into new, loving, forever homes. 

You can email Janette at adopt@sdheartlandhumanesociety.com.

Keisha Vandiver - Animal Care Assistant

Keisha, her husband, and their three young kiddos reside in Yankton. Keisha has a heart for all species of animals and enjoys taking the time to care for dogs and cats behind the scenes until they are ready for adoption.