Submitted by Zachary Rinkins
BROWARD COUNTY, FL – In a moment of well-earned recognition, Rousseau Durocher, has been honored as Leader of the Year by the Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association (FAPAA). The award was presented at the 2025 Florida Animal Protection Conference – Compassion in Action, celebrating his exceptional leadership, dedication, and impact in the field of animal welfare.
Durocher, a Fort Lauderdale native, has spent 15 years ensuring that lost, abandoned, and surrendered pets receive compassionate care. His career began in 2010 as a temporary worker, but through hard work, passion, and perseverance, he rose to become Intake Supervisor at Broward County Animal Care. Today, he leads a six-member team overseeing pet reunification, community fostering, and return-to-field programs, which have been instrumental in improving outcomes for animals and their owners.
“Rousseau is an incredible contributor to our agency’s quest for excellent service to both our residents and their animals,” said Doug Brightwell, Director of Broward County Animal Care. “His leadership, compassion, and dedication represent the standard for our entire team, and we are thrilled to see him receive this well-earned recognition.”
A highly respected figure in Florida’s animal welfare community, Durocher is known for his commitment to public service and his ability to lead with both heart and strategy. His leadership has helped create more humane, efficient, and community-driven intake processes, ensuring that pets in need receive the best possible care.
FAPAA’s Leader of the Year Award is one of the highest honors in Florida’s animal welfare community. The award is peer-nominated and voted upon, recognizing professionals who go above and beyond to advance animal welfare, improve shelter operations, and build stronger community partnerships.
Durocher’s recognition is not just a personal achievement—it is a reflection of Broward County Animal Care’s ongoing mission to serve the community with excellence, innovation, and compassion.
For more information about Broward County Animal Care, visit www.Broward.org/Animal.
About Broward County Animal Care
Broward County Animal Care is dedicated to protecting animals, serving residents, and promoting responsible pet ownership. The agency provides pet adoption services, community outreach, spay/neuter programs, and resources to keep pets and families together.
