From Our Board Chairman

Dear Wildlife Heroes,

In the defining year of 2020, we learned the true meaning of strength, support, inspiration and connection. Although we may be eager to move past this time, it is important to reflect on what we’ve accomplished, and there is so much of which to be proud.

Together, we rose up from the lowest valley, closing our Zoo to the public; and simultaneously met our greatest joy, the births of new baby animals.

The pandemic also resulted in dramatic budgetary shifts for the Zoo that led to greater financial sustainability. We quickly shed $7.5 million of debt and pushed ourselves to operate on earned revenue. This enables us to dedicate philanthropic giving to innovative habitats that bring visitors closer to animals.

Today, the Zoo is open and full of guests who we inspire daily. We transform the people who come through our gates into a greater force for wildlife and wild places. That’s our purpose. Our visitors, supporters, staff and animals make our mission possible.

Our prism is the health of the planet, and nature is at risk. Species are disappearing, and the natural world is in trouble. Support for your Zoo bolsters local and global efforts to preserve our planet’s most threatened species and habitats, and helps us create the Zoo of the future for generations to come.

Our path forward can only be described as strong and purposeful. We are well-positioned in 2021 to expand conservation programs, create more room to roam for animals in the Zoo and enhance the world-class guest experience.

Thank you for your extraordinary support. On behalf of the Board of Directors, stay fierce, courageous and generous and help us continue our mission to connect people with wildlife, save species and protect the wild world.

MICHELE KESSLER

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Fiona Jaguar Near threatened

Pegasus Caribbean flamingo Near threatened