Divemaster Picked as Animal Care Manager

Kirsten Vesel is the Matanuska-Susitna Borough’s new Animal Care Manager.

For eight years, Vesel has been a state commissioner for Serve Alaska, the State Service Commission, where she engaged Alaska residents in volunteerism and community service. She developed and ran her own company, the Vesel Group, LLC., in Anchorage and Seward providing administrative support for municipalities and nonprofits.

She worked as the contract manager at the Alaska Sealife Center in Seward and a divemaster on the Steller sea lion research team. Following, she became the assistant city manager and later the public works superintendent for the city of Seward. Vesel managed city staff and city wide capital projects of up to $20 million.

“I am honored by the opportunity to serve the Matsu-Susitna Borough—people and animals—in this important capacity.  I am committed to maintaining the highest standards for our facility and animal care.”

Vesel believes animal care is a vital part of responsible government. She has been active to change state statutes to protect the public from dog attacks. She has a passion for animal welfare and is excited to raise awareness about responsible pet care.

Her two-year, around-the-world trip to over 50 countries gives her a resiliency needed for animal care issues, which are likely the most emotionally charged among Borough services.

She holds a masters of public administration, a masters of science in environmental quality engineering from the University of Alaska and a bachelors in both environmental science and natural resource management from Alaska Pacific University.

“Her significant experience in public leadership and her customer service communications skills make her an ideal fit and a great addition to Animal Care and the Borough,” said George Hays, Assistant Borough Manager.

For more information contact Kirsten Vesel at 761-7505 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Patty Sullivan, Public Affairs, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.