Texas Humane Legislation Network Names Mia Bendixsen as New Executive Director

March 26, 2026

Austin, TX — The Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), a leading nonprofit dedicated to advancing animal protection through legislation, education, and advocacy, is pleased to announce Mia Bendixsen, J.D., as its new Executive Director.

As the Executive Director, Bendixsen will serve as the chief executive of both the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN) and its sister organization, the Texas Humane Network (a 501(c)(3) organization focused on humane training and education), leading the organizations’ strategic vision, legislative advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives.

“I’m honored to join THLN and Texas Humane Network,” said Bendixsen. “I look forward to working alongside fellow advocates, partners, and lawmakers to make a lasting impact on animal welfare in Texas.”

Bendixsen is an attorney and a seasoned nonprofit leader with more than 20 years of experience and a demonstrated track record in fundraising, strategic management, and community engagement. She has held senior roles with nationally recognized organizations, including Executive Director of the Coastal Plains Chapter of the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region, Director of Philanthropy for the Humane Society of the United States in New England, and Director of Development for the Boy Scouts Cradle of Liberty Council in Philadelphia.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mia as THLN’s new Executive Director,” said Steve Hurst, THLN Board President. “She brings an outstanding combination of leading high-impact and mission-driven organizations and a genuine passion for animal welfare. We are confident that Mia will guide THLN into its next chapter, continuing to strengthen animal protection laws and engaging volunteers, partners, and legislators to make a lasting difference for animals across Texas.”

Complementing her professional experience, Bendixsen has long demonstrated a deep commitment to animal welfare, serving on boards supporting animal advocacy and leading efforts to protect companion animals in times of crisis. At the American Red Cross, she served as Regional Pet Sheltering Lead, working alongside emergency managers, law enforcement, and community partners to ensure disaster response efforts kept pets safe and with their families.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Bendixsen led pet rescue coordination efforts, co-organizing The Righteous Paws Group to support around-the-clock rescue operations and transport animals to safety. She also helped lead advocacy efforts to temporarily halt the euthanasia of displaced animals, contributing to a petition that garnered more than 330,000 signatures.

“Mia’s passion for animal welfare and her track record of mobilizing people and resources reflect the kind of leadership that will further strengthen Texas Humane Network’s mission,” said Kenny Burns, Texas Humane Network Board President. “We are excited to see her vision in action as we expand our humane training and educational programs across Texas.”

In conjunction with Bendixsen beginning her role as the new Executive Director, THLN has also begun its search for a Legislative Director to focus on developing, executing, and advancing THLN’s legislative agenda at the Texas Legislature.

THLN and Texas Humane Network also extend their sincere gratitude to Jaime Olin for her leadership and service as Interim Executive Director during this transition period. Her steady guidance and commitment to the organization’s mission have been invaluable. Olin will now return to her role as Legislative Chair on the THLN Board, where she will continue to support THLN’s important work.

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Texas Humane Legislation Network

For the past 51 years, the Texas Humane Legislation Network has been the leading voice in promoting the humane treatment of animals through legislation, education, and advocacy. They have played a key role in the passage of the majority of animal protection laws in Texas. Unlike other organizations, they are the only Texas-based mainstream group that does not adhere to a national agenda; instead, they focus exclusively on what benefits Texas and its animals. Learn more at www.thln.org.

 

Texas Humane Network

The Texas Humane Network is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2020 that promotes the humane treatment of animals through education, training, and outreach. As an affiliate of the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN), it focuses on educating Texans about animal laws, safety, and compassion, helping to enforce animal laws in Texas.