Jenna Ramsey
Executive Director/Founder
Jenna grew up in Tucson, AZ and lived in the Sonoran Desert for 28 years. She graduated from the University of Arizona in the department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with minors in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics and graduate studies in Herpetology. Jenna did field research work, professionally, with desert tortoises, rattlesnakes, gila monsters and other desert reptiles while attending the U of A. Jenna became a veterinary technician in Arizona for almost a decade, working with reptiles and exotics. In the early 2000’s, Jenna moved to Los Angeles and worked for the Marine Mammal Care Center at Fort McArthur, rehabilitating marine mammals including Elephant Seals, Sea Lions and the occasional dolphin. Going back to her original first love of reptiles, Jenna accepted a position at the San Diego Zoo as a Senior Reptile Keeper, working extensively with Galapagos tortoises, Fijian Iguanas, crocodilians, snakes, and many other species of reptiles and amphibians for about 10 years. In 2016, Jenna moved to Pullman, WA to fulfill a lifelong dream of running a farmed animal sanctuary. She founded Blackbird Ranch Farm Sanctuary in 2017 and manages the day to day care of 75 farmed animals, with an incredible team of directors, interns and volunteers. In addition to running the sanctuary, Jenna also works full-time in the ICU department at the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
Lucy & Eleanor
Security Directors
Lucy and Eleanor are sisters! Each day they work tirelessly to protect their herd from any dangers of the countryside.
Justine Armentrout
Justine grew up on the sunny coast of southern California and transplanted to the Palouse in 2018 where she enjoys the fresh air and slower pace of life. She holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from California State University, Long Beach, and has a varied background in non-traditional science education and veterinary medicine. In the past, Justine has volunteered in an assortment of animal- and environmentally-oriented organizations, including the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, the Seal Beach Animal Care Center, and Speak for Wolves.
Currently, Justine works in the oncology department at the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. When she isn’t working or at the ranch, Justine can be found running or lounging in the sun with her dogs and a good book.
Victoria Howells
Victoria has been a dedicated volunteer at Blackbird for many years, working closely with its residents and contributing to project development in support of its mission. She joins the board with a deep, ongoing commitment to animal welfare and a lifelong passion for working with animals.
Having lived on the Palouse for over 20 years, Victoria also owns and operates her own business as a mental health therapist. Outside of her volunteer work, she enjoys gardening, art, nature, and traveling.
Victoria is excited to continue growing with Blackbird Ranch and to support its mission of rescuing animals, educating the community, and promoting compassion in animal welfare.
Pat Muller
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Marlene Veith
Marlene has been a devoted volunteer at Blackbird Ranch Farm Sanctuary since July 2020, where her deep compassion and unwavering commitment to animal welfare are at the heart of everything she does. She is passionate about creating a safe, loving environment for each animal and finds profound joy in building trust with them and honoring their individual stories and personalities. Her time at the sanctuary reflects her belief in kindness, respect, and advocacy for all living beings.
Marlene earned her Bachelor’s degree in English, with a minor in Fine Arts, from Washington State University, and currently works with the Admissions team at the WSU Graduate School. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, exploring creative crafts, and connecting with family and friends. She shares her passion with those around her.
Blackbird Ranch Farm Sanctuary 