Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary Adds Two Leaders To Expand Programs

NEWTOWN, CT — The Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary has hired two new educators to expand its year-round programming focused on humane learning, conservation and community engagement.

Ken Elkins has been named director of education and partnerships, and Edward Clarke will serve as lead educator. Sanctuary officials said the additions mark a major step in broadening opportunities for visitors of all ages to connect with animals, nature and environmental stewardship.

Founded in 2013 to honor Catherine Violet Hubbard, one of the children killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, the sanctuary now hosts a range of community programs and operates the Senior Paw Project, which supports senior pet owners in Connecticut and Massachusetts with food, veterinary care and respite services.

Jennifer Hubbard, president of the sanctuary, said the hires strengthen the organization’s mission to promote compassion for animals and their habitats.

“Welcoming Ken and Edward marks a milestone in our ability to fully deliver on the sanctuary’s mission,” Hubbard said. “Catherine wanted every animal to know she was kind, and from that simple wish grew a place where caring for animals and their habitats also builds human empathy.”

Elkins brings more than two decades of experience in environmental education and conservation, including work with several Audubon centers. He co-created Bird Tales, an award-winning program designed to make nature accessible to older adults. He said he hopes to continue building inclusive and engaging learning opportunities at the sanctuary.

“It’s an honor to join the CVH sanctuary team and build upon its foundation of education curriculum and teaching that’s based in compassion,” Elkins said.

Clarke, a former paleontologist and National Park Service educator, will lead programming for children, adults and community groups. His background includes field instruction, classroom teaching and youth science projects.

“I look forward to working with this fantastic team to create impactful educational programming for students of all ages,” Clarke said.

The sanctuary recently completed Catherine’s Learning Barn, which will host workshops, field trips and community programs throughout the year. The 34-acre property, which includes meadows, woodlands, hiking trails and a large pollinator habitat, serves as an outdoor classroom for conservation and humane-education initiatives.

The sanctuary’s education programs are designed to foster empathy through hands-on experiences with animals and nature. It offers free and low-cost programs, including nature exploration, community workshops and field-based lessons.

The sanctuary’s grounds at 8 Commerce Road are open daily from dawn to dusk.