Feline Advocates of Leon County
F.A.L.C.
Meet the Board of Directors
Michelle Hartsfield
President & Founder
I'm a local high school teacher by day, cat rescuer by night! For years I had daydreamed about starting a cat cafe. Through dedication and persistence, we made it happen with the help of some incredible people. Then, a few years into the operation, and after witnessing the dire need for more resources to help cats in Tallahassee, we evolved into a full-blown cat rescue saving over 300 cats per year and finding them forever homes. I am so proud of our team!
Dr. Sara Jones
Vice President
In 2018 I visited Fat Cat Café and adopted two cats – Luna and Heidi. That visit changed everything. I started volunteering, and after the café transformed into a nonprofit, I became a director. As medical coordinator, I handle spay/neuter surgeries, vet visits, and preventative vetting. I also work closely with our foster coordinator to oversee treatments for sick cats and special medical cases. I do love neonatal orphaned kittens, and I am a trained bottle/tube feeder and critical care foster. Beyond medical, I serve as Vice President and am involved in grant writing, social media, and administrative operations. As a scientist, I have a deep appreciation for data-driven solutions in rescue work. In my down time, I love playing the violin and cuddling with my cats. It is a privilege to be part of this amazing organization!
Gisele Poitras
Secretary
I adopted QT in 2021 from Fat Cat Books, when he was 13 years old. I instantly fell in love with the rescue, just like I fell in love with my QT. I have since fostered numerous kitties, including senior cats which are my personal favorites. I serve as Foster Coordinator, Adoption Coordinator, and FALC Secretary. I am so honored and appreciative to be a part of this wonderful and passionate group, dedicated to saving, protecting, advocating for, and loving kitties (especially the oldies)! In my free time, I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and spending time with my three kitties on our porch.
Melissa Blake
Director
I've always loved animals but my passion to get involved in rescue began several years ago when a neighbor moved away leaving their four cats behind. After contacting every rescue in town for assistance, and being turned down, I realized for the first time how dire of a situation cat overpopulation really was! I had to do something to help!
Since joining FALC, I've had a few different titles as director, but currently I serve as Volunteer Coordinator and handle procurement and vendor relations. I love that I get to help save kitties while working with some of my closest friends!
Outside of rescue life, you can find me snuggling with the Siamese love of my life, Tally, and my cute little pup, Newman!
Cailee Krambeck
Director
I'm Cailee! a Tallahassee local that has been with the cafe and Board of Directors since we first opened in 2017, and created FALC! I've loved my time working with all our employees, fosters, volunteers, fellow board members, and of course the cats! I have one foster fail of my own that I adore and couldn't imagine our lives without her highness. When not working, or being involved with the cafe, you can find me on the pickleball court!
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Lindsey Viramontes
Director
I've been a lifelong cat lover, and the moment I stepped into Fat Cat Cafe, I knew it was something truly special. I began working there as an employee in 2018 and was honored to join the Board of Directors when FALC was founded. Over the past six years, I have built a career in veterinary medicine and take great pride in advocating for rescue animals. When I'm not working, I cherish spending time with my husband, son, and our four rescue cats.
Gloria Alvarez
Director
After volunteering at Fat Cat Cafe for a few years, I started working there and instantly fell in love with the cats. Seeing what an impact the rescue makes made me want to join as a director, and I did just that. I serve as a team lead at Fat Cat Books, helping everything run smoothly between the cats, books, and people. If you can't find me at the bookstore or cafe, I am most likely analyzing criminal's fingerprints or spending time at home with my own kitty!
Katherine Bullough
Director
Hi! I'm Katherine and I have lived my whole life with cats, both outdoor and indoor. I am currently studying Chemistry and Biology at FSU with the hopes of becoming a large animal vet in the future. I started working at the cafe in 2023 and slowly acclimated myself more with the medical side of things, with the help of our amazing medical staff and directors. I am so proud of this organization and how much it has achieved in such a short amount of time!