Virginia Chipurnoi
Profile Verified by The Marque
Last Updated: 22 Sep 2026
President | New York
New York, US
Profile Verified by The Marque
Last Updated: 22 Sep 2026
THE MARQUE
In Their Own Right
Biography
Virginia Chipurnoi is an American businesswoman and animal welfare advocate known for her leadership and philanthropic efforts, particularly with the Humane Society of New York, now the Humane World for Animals.
As President of the Humane Society of New York, Virginia has held several key leadership and board positions, demonstrating her lifelong dedication to the humane treatment of animals. She continues to have a positive impact in the field of animal welfare, enhancing the lives of countless animals. Notably, she established the Forever Homes Policy, which screens potential adopters to ensure the best match between animals and their new homes.
Founded in 1904, the Humane Society of New York has spent over 100 years caring for animals in need due to illness, injury, or homelessness. Initially established to protect horses from abuse, the society's early members advocated for laws to penalize negligent owners and created watering troughs in streets and parks. As funding allowed, the society expanded its services to include a free medical clinic and a small adoption center for cats and dogs.
Virginia has travelled extensively and observed the deplorable conditions and mistreatment that many animals face. This experience fueled her strong commitment to advocating for animal welfare at both the state and federal levels. So far, she has successfully championed several animal-friendly bills that have been signed into law in New York.
Early in her career, Virginia gained valuable experience at the Reuters news agency in Paris before transitioning to animal welfare advocacy. Her background in journalism and fashion provided a solid foundation for her subsequent roles in management and philanthropy.
Virginia began her professional journey in the fashion industry at Lord & Taylor, a prestigious American luxury department store, founded in 1826 in New York City, making it one of the oldest department stores in the United States.
The Record
Background
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Present
President | New York
The Humane Society of New York | Now: Humane World for Animals
The Humane Society of New York provides medical care and adoption services for homeless animals, as well as affordable veterinary services for pet owners in need. Founded over 100 years ago, the organization is committed to the welfare and humane treatment of animals, helping them find loving, permanent homes.
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Reuters
Reuters, the global news agency, has a bureau in Paris that covers a broad range of topics, including French politics, economics, and international affairs.
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Lord & Taylor
Founded in 1826, Lord & Taylor was one of America's oldest and most iconic luxury department stores, celebrated for its high-end fashion, accessories, and home goods.
In The News
Newsfeed
Areas Of Focus