Dr. James Lombella
President/CEO
Growing up on a small family dairy farm in western MA, Jim’s love for animals was instilled early in life and his compassion for creatures large and small endures. Through high school he was a dog groomer and later opened a pet supply store and dog grooming facility, partnering with local shelters and rescue organizations for adoption days and providing education on animal nutrition, grooming, and training. After a 14-year career as president of multiple CT State Colleges, public service and giving back to the community has become part of who Jim is. As the president of CFA and volunteer for CVA, he is able to continue giving back by working to improve the lives of animals through legislation, advocacy, and community education. Jim’s family reflects his long-time work with rescues; it includes three rescue cats and a rescue puppy, Khali, who stole his heart as a foster and found her forever home.
Jim is also a proud first generation, Community College graduate who also holds an AS in Business Administration from Holyoke Community College, Holyoke, MA, a Master of Management degree from Cambridge College, Cambridge, MA, and a Doctor of Education from the Abraham S. Fischler School of Education at Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL.