Animal Rescue League of Boston Hires New Director of Advocacy

NATICK, MA — Nadine Pellegrini was recently welcomed by the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) as the new director of advocacy. According to the ARL, Pelligrini's role will be to provide leadership and direction on the animal welfare organization’s advocacy agenda.

“Nadine’s extensive knowledge of law enforcement and experience prosecuting crimes will help immensely as the ARL moves legislation and policy discussion forward to improve the protection and treatment of animals in Massachusetts,” said Mary Nee, president of the ARL, in an announcement.

Pellegrini worked on a number of cases during her 20 years with the U.S. Attorney’s office in Boston. Most recently, she was a member of the U.S. Attorney’s anti-terrorism unit and of the prosecution team for United States vs. Dzhokar Tsarnaev. She also served as chief of the major crimes unit, prosecuting cases involving enforcement of the Endangered Species Act, Marine Mammal Protection Act, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and more.

Pelligrini developed an interest in animal protection after she got her law degree from Albany Law School of Union University, pursuing a master of science in animals and public policy from the Tufts Center for Animals and Public Policy (CAPP) at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

She has taught animal law at Boston College Law School and given lectures on federal wildlife protection at CAPP.

A Natick-resident, Pellegrini is an animal lover with two dogs and a horse.

“I’m honored to join an organization that does so much to support the health and safety of animals in our community,” said Pellegrini in a statement. “The opportunity to help advance laws and programs that prevent cruelty, neglect, and abuse is especially meaningful to me professionally and personally.”