Staff

Meet Our Team

Isabela Estrada

Executive Director

Isabela Estrada (she/they) graduated from the University of Florida with a BFA in Acting and a minor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. Growing up around animals has inspired her love for them, in turn causing her interest in Project Canis. Isabela has a history of working with animals, beginning in middle school when they volunteered at an equine therapy center. She believes in the power of giving back and is proud to continue that work with Project Canis. Isabela originally worked with Project Canis as Outreach Coordinator for 4 years, but has recently stepped into the role of Executive Director. They would love to give a big shoutout to their dog Teddy for being the best boy in the world.

Leah Ungarten

Associate Director

Leah grew up in South Florida and moved back to Gainesville in December 2022. She has a bachelor's degree from UF and is currently finishing up her Masters Degree. Leah has always grown up with animals and currently has two dogs, Obi, 8 years old, and Kneesaa, 2 years old. Over the last 14 years she has worked with many non-profits and animal rescues and is excited to work with Project Canis.

Kaitlin Arnold

Operations Manager

Kaitlin Arnold (she/her) brings a strong background in marketing, management, and nonprofit leadership to her role as Operations Manager at Project Canis. A graduate of the University of Florida with both a Bachelor’s in Advertising and a Master’s in Entrepreneurship, Kaitlin has built her career on helping organizations grow through strategic planning, efficient systems, and creative problem-solving. Her passion for animals and community service drew her to Project Canis, where she is excited to support the team in advancing its mission. At home, Kaitlin is happily kept on her toes by her two cats, Otto and Socks, who provide endless entertainment and companionship.

Lisa Vihlborg

Outreach Coordinator

Lisa Vihlborg is an animal lover who grew up in Sweden and has been passionate about supporting animals for as long as she can remember. Now an Outreach Coordinator at Project Canis, she brings years of marketing experience to the organization’s community engagement and awareness efforts. Lisa uses her professional skills to strengthen connections, expand volunteer involvement, and advocate for dogs in need. Her heart for animals and commitment to giving back guide her work every day.

Patricia Fortunato

Fundraising Manager

Patricia Fortunato is a leader in content, communications, grants, and philanthropy with experience spanning nonprofits, startups, academic medicine, and health care. She has dedicated her career to eliminating disparities in social determinants of health and advancing health justice. Patricia is committed to advancing inclusion and accessibility, and advocates for service, emotional support, and therapy animals for neurodivergent and disabled people. She joins Project Canis as Fundraising Manager, leading grants and philanthropy in support of organizational advancement.

Nicole Heskin

Communications Coordinator

Nicole Heskin is a passionate animal welfare professional. For over 6 years, she has had the privilege of working in animal shelters across the U.S. on program development, leadership, outreach, and shelter medicine. She is driven by her strong belief in the welfare and well-being of animals and the people who care for them. She holds a Master of Education and a Professional Science Master's in Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management. Nicole resides in Minnesota with her husband, 2 German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and 11 guinea pigs. She is excited to be part of Project Canis and assist in ensuring every shelter pet has a toy!

Bella Diaz

Marketing Coordinator