Meet Our Team

Paris Miller

Founder, Executive Director

Paris Miller founded Project Canis in 2020 to help every shelter animal get a toy and ultimately find their furever homes. She works to support animal wellness in her career as an E-Commerce Account Manager for Zesty Paws. She graduated from the University of Florida Honors program with a dual degree in Business Administration and Sustainability Studies and a minor in Nonprofit Organizational Leadership. Paris loves to foster and TNR cats in her free time and has her own foster fail, Cardi.

Hallie Bell

Associate Director

Hallie Bell, a graduate from the University of Florida, received her Bachelors in History in December of 2023. In 2019, she welcomed Zeta, a six-year-old red border collie mix, into her life, having adopted the canine companion from a local shelter. Over the past five years, Hallie has dedicated her time to working with animals, gaining invaluable experience in various local animal shelters and dog boarding facilities located in the Gainesville and Sarasota areas. She firmly believes in the significance of toy enrichment for the overall health and well-being of shelter dogs. Her passion and commitment to the welfare of dogs have led her to contribute to the ongoing efforts of Project Canis.

Jen Bryant

Finance Manager

Jen Bryant is a graduate of Franklin University and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications. She is passionate about animal welfare and previously volunteered as a grant writer for Colony Cats and Dogs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing feline overpopulation through spay/neuter programs and public awareness efforts. Jen also cared for a small colony of stray and feral cats in Columbus, Ohio for several years. She has been fortunate to share her life with many amazing animal companions throughout the years and currently lives with Cleo F. Baby, an FIV-positive former street cat who makes the best blanket biscuits.

Lillian Withers

Operations Manager

Lillian Withers, a Gainesville native and Florida State University
alumna, holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences with 
​concentrations in environmental studies and law/policy. Driven by her passion for animals and commitment to her community, she finds no better way to contribute than by supporting Project Canis, dedicated to enhancing the lives of sheltered animals in Florida. She currently
has two adopted kitties of her own, Phoebe and Odin.

Breann Forbus

Communications Coordinator

Breann Forbus holds a Master of Arts in History from Gettysburg College and a Bachelor’s degree in Education (English/Social Studies) from Henderson State University. Her journey as an educator has given her the rewarding chance to connect her students with the community, building bridges through outreach and engagement roles. Eight years ago, Breann adopted her beloved dog, Lil’ Mac, from a local shelter, and he has been her best companion. As a lifelong animal lover, she is thrilled to bring her communication skills to support the mission of Project Canis! 

Isabela Estrada

Outreach Coordinator

​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. She would love to give a big shoutout to her dog Teddy for being the best boy in the world.

Taylor Carlson

Senior Marketing Analyst

Taylor Carlson is currently pursuing her MBA at the University of Miami after graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in General Business with a specialization in International Studies. Her background in animal welfare began when she started volunteering at an animal shelter in high school. Taylor has volunteered over 500 hours and has fostered 13 animals at the local Humane Society in Gainesville. By being involved with Project Canis, Taylor will use her passion for animal welfare to help even more animals.

Sarah Strohminger

Marketing Coordinator

Sarah Strohminger holds a Master of Sustainable Development Practice from the University of Florida, and a BA in Liberal Arts from Flagler College. While her professional pursuits lie in equitable access to food and water, the first research paper she wrote in college was on "The Value of Pets." Sarah appreciates upcycling of all kinds and her two cats especially appreciate Project Canis's Braid toy!