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.

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 

Sarah White - Administrative Assistant

Sarah resides in Yankton with her little dogs and has impacted many agencies in town with her professional help, including Pathways and Lewis & Clark Behavorial Health. Sarah has a degree in social work and a passion for helping people. Her roles at HHS include office and shelter management as well as navigating solutions for clients, customers, volunteers and staff! 

You can email Sarah at info@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.