In one’s professional life, a sure hallmark of success is to have your good name closely and positively linked with your company’s. So it was that when folks heard about the Hawaiian Humane Society, CEO Pamela Burns was in the forefront. For 27 years, she was the guiding force and true believer in the nonprofit’s cause of helping stray animals and many other pet initiatives.

Burns, 65, died at home Monday night; she had been on leave due to illness. Community awareness on animal welfare and education on pet adoptions were among HHS efforts advanced under Burns, who was recognized locally, and internationally, as an avid advocate for animal rights and welfare. Here’s to true believers, and to Pamela Burns.