Stephen Wells

Stephen Wells is executive director and chief executive officer of the Animal Legal Defense Fund. Prior to becoming its CEO in January 2006, Stephen served as the director of ALDF’s successful Animal Law Program, which he initiated in 2000. The Animal Law Program provides support and resources to ALDF’s law professional and law student members and pro bono opportunities for attorneys and firms to assist ALDF with its mission.

Prior to joining ALDF in 1999, Stephen served as executive director of the Alaska Wildlife Alliance in Anchorage where he became known for his work to protect Alaska’s wildlife and wild places. Stephen also co-owned and operated a restaurant, called Sparks, which served vegan and organic food from 2001 through 2004.

Stephen is committed to animal and environmental protection and over the years, in addition to his full-time work, he has continued to volunteer his time for local organizations and projects. He lives with his dog and two cats and drives an old Mercedes Benz that runs on biodiesel made from waste fryer oil.