Nicole Paquette is The Humane Society of the United States’ Vice President of Wildlife Protection. She has worked in the animal protection field for almost 20 years, with a diverse focus on legislation, litigation, campaigns, and organizational governance. She oversees the The HSUS’ work to end the worst cruelties facing wild animals: stopping trophy hunting and cruel killing methods of native carnivores, shutting down the exotic pet trade and wild animal acts, and ending the use of lethal and inhumane methods to manage wildlife conflicts. Prior to joining The HSUS, Nicole was the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Born Free USA/Animal Protection Institute. She has assisted countless states and cities with introducing and passing laws relating to dangerous wild animals in private possession, animals in entertainment, companion animals, and a range of wildlife issues. She has also played an integral role in successfully defeating anti-animal welfare bills across the country. Nicole is a graduate of Vermont Law School, a member of the California, District of Columbia, and Massachusetts Bars.