Gena joined the Circle Tail Board of Directors in 2019 and transitioned to Executive Director in April 2024. She has been a dedicated volunteer and foster family, and adopted Circle Tail Ambassador Dog, Wenli. Gena is a 1993 graduate of Ball State University, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Journalism/Public Relations. She spent the past 28 years in banking and is passionate about the mission of Circle Tail and all the interactions she has experienced throughout the organization. Beyond her role at Circle Tail, Gena has been an active member of the Board of Directors at the Center for Independent Living Options for the past five years, serving as Board President for two years. In her personal life, Gena finds joy in spending time with her husband, three adult children, and her beloved dogs. She feels honored to follow in the footsteps of Marlys Staley and is excited about the bright future of Circle Tail.

Marlys is the founder, Executive Director for 27 years and current Director of Operations of Circle Tail. A Physical Therapist by profession, Marlys came up with the idea for Circle Tail after touring a training center for guide dogs in Florida and learning of the great need for assistance dogs. The career change drew on her background and experiences with persons with disabilities, and the knowledge of the psychological trauma and financial hardships they face. Through incredible effort and dedication, Marlys propelled Circle Tail forward. She is a professional member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP). In 2012, she was awarded IACP Ambassador Status and served on the IACP Dog Trainer’s Certification Committee for 8 years. In addition, she is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, a Certified PetTech PetSaver Instructor, and Cynopraxis/Principles of LIMA certified. She lives onsite at Circle Tail to ensure the dogs are cared for in any type of emergency. While she used to be an ultra-marathon runner, she now enjoys a brisk walk and hiking with the dogs. Her home is filled with the joy of 2 German Shepherds.

Jen began volunteering with Circle Tail in 1999 and just fell in love with the organization and everything it represents. She is amazed at how far Circle Tail has come. She has helped grow Circle Tail from a barn to a new Training & Education Center, Early Learning Center for the puppies, and Landen Living & Learning Center where we can comfortably house and train our adolescent/adult dogs. Professionally, Jen works as a Scientific Director for a small biotech company. For fun, she enjoys hiking with her dogs, traveling, and having good times with friends. She shares her home with her two cats Maisy & Ramona, Circle Tail’s ambassador, Golden Retriever, Breslin, and an array of service dogs in training that she fosters.