The City of Memphis has appointed Mary Claire Borys as the interim director for Memphis Animal Services (MAS), following the administrative leave of former director Ty Coleman. Information shared by Action News 5 details that Borys, who holds the role of manager of strategic initiatives within Memphis’ Division of Housing and Community Development, will now oversee the shelter's operations during this transitional period.
Borys, replacing Coleman after a controversial incident wherein a dog succumbed to what MAS claims to have been a heat-related illness, brings a varied background to the position. According to FOX13 Memphis, her experience includes a prior management position with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis, and a vital role as Chair of the Mid-South Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters.
As reported by Local Memphis, Ty Coleman was placed on leave on June 28, 2024 amid investigations into the circumstances surrounding the canine fatality on MAS premises on June 24, 2024. The incident has since led to procedural adjustments at the shelter, including the implementation of more shade in outdoor play areas and enhanced staff training to prioritize animal well-being.
Further scrutiny of Coleman's previous tenure was brought to light by FOX13 Memphis, which revealed a history of past investigations during his time at Midland Animal Services in Texas, which concluded with his dismissal for "not passing his one year probation period." Prior to his appointment as MAS director, Ty Coleman had commenced his role at the shelter as interim director in September 2023, later securing the position permanently.
