Dorchester Paws welcomes Burt Connelly, a Summerville native and College of Charleston graduate, as the new Executive Director of, the only open admission shelter in Dorchester County. 



“On behalf of the Board of Directors, the staff and the animals of Dorchester Paws, we are thrilled to welcome Burt Connelly to our family as the new Executive Director,” says Joshua Ayers, Board of Directors President. “Burt’s commitment to Summerville and Dorchester County is unparalleled. He has deep rooted connections that will undoubtedly aid in providing additional resources and support to champion our mission.”

Burt’s career highlights include working in Marketing and Promotions for Charleston’s radio market (WEZL, Q104.5, Alice 100.5 and 102.5), working for the City of Hanahan from 2006-2012 as an Athletic Coordinator/Program Manager, working for local school districts as a teacher and staff member from 2012-2019 and most recently working for the Dorchester County Government where he served as Park Operations Manager for three and a half years helping to get the new park system started. 

Burt served on the board for Lowcountry Youth Services and was a coach at Summerville High School but as of recent serves on the board for the Summerville High Athletic Club. 

Burt is a proud dad to an 11 year old son and his dog Daisy Duke. In his spare time he can be found watching his son play sports, cooking, enjoying the outdoors, sports, singing, wildlife, traveling and making others laugh or smile. 

“We are excited for what 2023 has in store for Dorchester Paws under Burt’s leadership and his commitment to the shelter’s mission, says Ayers.”

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About Dorchester Paws

Dorchester Paws, formerly known as Frances R. Willis SPCA, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals in Dorchester County, South Carolina. Dorchester Paws is the only open-admission shelter in Dorchester County, serving the towns of Rosinville, Ridgeville, Oakbrook, St. George, Summerville and Grover, South Carolina. Partnering with Dorchester Code Enforcement, the organization takes in every lost, abandoned, and abused animal and provides food, shelter and medical attention until a “forever home” can be found. Since 2017, Dorchester Paws has been a no kill shelter and is a partner in the “No Kill South Carolina Coalition.”