MISSION, HISTORY, AND VISION
Vision
Securing a future for wildlife
Mission
Inspire people to love, engage with, act for, and protect animals and the places they live through sharing our passion for animal care, education, and conservation.
GLOBAL IMPACT
SUPPORTS WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ON
6 CONTINENTS
SUPPORTED MORE THAN
150 CONSERVATION PROJECTS
OVER
775 DIFFERENT SPECIES
letter from THE ceo
Dear Supporters and Friends of San Antonio Zoo,
Reflecting on the remarkable year 2023, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the unwavering support that has propelled us to new heights. I am happy to share the incredible achievements and milestones that have defined our journey toward excellence in education and conservation.
2023 marked a year of monumental transformation, growth, and innovation at San Antonio Zoo. We are thrilled to share we have been honored as the 2023 Best Zoo in Texas by the Texas Travel Awards! This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our Zoo Crew, supporters, and the vibrant community we serve.
We undertook significant conservation efforts throughout the year, releasing 50 Texas horned lizards and 2,800 Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles into their natural habitats. We were delighted to welcome a playful male okapi calf, Gates, from first-time parents Ludimi and Epulu, captivating audiences far and wide on social media.
Among the highlights of 2023 were unveiling new attractions like the John & Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest and reimagining and expanding Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot. We also reintroduced guest favorites like meerkats and rock wallabies, enriching the visitor experience and educating guests on their conservation efforts.
The grand opening of our brand-new Zoo Entrance was a monumental achievement that reshaped the landscape of our zoo. It symbolized our commitment to innovation and enhancing the guest experience. Over the past ten years, we have reinvested over $115 million into our beloved institution, laying the foundation for future growth and sustainability.
Every donation is important to us, and we’re thrilled to say that in November, we received the largest gift in our zoo’s history. Shannon Ralston and the Ralston Family Charitable Foundation gave a gift of $10M to Generation Zoo, our current capital campaign. This gift, along with all of our generous gifts to Generation Zoo, moves us one step closer to the return of gorillas at Congo Falls and the opening of The Ralston (event center) in 2025.
As we continue on the exciting journey of 2024, San Antonio Zoo stands poised for a transformative year that mirrors the dynamic evolution of our city. We look forward to continuing to grow and foster our educational experiences, strengthening our conservation efforts, and continue our capital campaign and improvements in order to keep our momentum to be the best zoo for our community and the nation.
We couldn’t do this without you! I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you for your continued support and dedication to our zoo family. Your contributions make all our endeavors possible, and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to welcome you to YOUR San Antonio Zoo, where adventure, discovery, and wonder await.
We hope to see you soon, Tim Morrow, President & CEO San Antonio Zoo
2023 Board of Directors
Executive Committee
William A. Freed, Chairman
John L. Nau III, 1st V.P.
Maryanne Guido, 2nd V.P.
Sara Stumberg Walker, Treasurer
Susan Naylor, Secretary
Mary R. Barrett
Eric Abati
Marcus Barrett IV
Victoria Beavers
Becky Canavan
Charles H. Clines
Ann Allen Cross, DVM, MS
Tom Cury
Kelly S. Daniell
Louis R. DiSabato**
Tracee Feik
Drew Greller, VMD, DACVO
Valerie Guenther*
Cosmo M. Guido
Timothy M. Havens
Joe N. Haynes
Annita Hereford-Crump
Justin Hill
George S. “Timo” Hixon
Laura Berg Hodge
Todd L. Brockwell
Camille L. Denton
Brandon E. Grossman
Wilbur Matthews II
Jayme Russell
Board of Directors
James Hollis
Andrea Holmes
Meredith Howard
George Hutchinson, PhD
Mark M. Johnson
Kathleen R. Kennedy
Clayton Killinger
Lisa Lannon
Roby Latimer
Jane H. Macon
Ryan Malitz
William T. Maloy
J. Stephen McCusker**
Michael McLaughlin
Robert Miggins
Ashwin Nathan
Kay Kay O’Brien
George P. Parker Jr.
Tony Parker
Enzo Pellegrino
Denise Pride-Elliott
Ashley Quintanilla
Cameron R. Redding
Allison K. Reyes
Kelly A. Russell
Frank Ruttenberg
Jim Satel
Carol Severyn
Brian C. Steward
John Sun
Tarah Sykes
Thomas C. Thill
Robert P. Thomas, MD
Mark L. Thornton, MD
Jon Turner
Gilbert F. Vazquez
Alice B. Viroslav, MD
Edwin “Eli” J. Whitney
*Directors Emeriti
**Executive Directors Emeriti
Year-End Financials
REVENUE
Contributions
Admissions Rides
Special Events & Other
Education
Food & Beverages
Retail & Concessions
$ 29,297,849
$ 18,001,975 $ 3,879,375 $ 2,561,023 $ 2,487,199 $ 2,054,492 $ 1,033,995
CONTRIBUTIONS
ADMISSIONS
RIDES
EDUCATION
SPECIAL EVENTS & OTHER
FOOD & BEVERAGES
RETAIL & CONCESSIONS
Year-End Financials
and Conservation General & Administrative
FUNDRAISING & DEVELOPMENT Operations & Facilities
& Development
$ 14,020,683 $ 8,105,995 $ 5,293,797 $ 4,574,230 $ 3,214,805 $ 2,482,719 $ 1,530,567
OPERATIONS & FACILITIES MANAGEMENT ANIMAL CARE DEPRECIATION
EDUCATION & CONSERVATION GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE
1.3 MILLION
2 BILLION VIDEO VIEWS
3 BILLION IN REACH
Awards & Accolades
in
San Antonio Zoo Becomes
Sensory-Inclusive Through Partnership with KultureCity
San Antonio Zoo proudly announced its partnership with KultureCity, a nonprofit organization that creates sensoryinclusive environments for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Through this partnership, San Antonio Zoo has become sensory-inclusive, providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors and its Zoo Crew.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). Guests interested in checking out a sensory bag can do so at the Zoo Entrance with a valid ID.
First Ever “Dog Day” Event
In October, San Antonio Zoo held its very first Dog Day, a one-of-a-kind opportunity for dog lovers to experience the wonders of the animal kingdom alongside their dogs. From the captivating sights and sounds to the intriguing new scents, dogs and their owners had a blast and played a vital role in enriching the animal residents. Our furry friends’ presence added excitement and curiosity to the atmosphere, stimulating the senses of the zoo residents in unique ways. Visit sazoo. org to see Dog Day dates for 2024.
San Antonio Zoo Disaster Response Team Responds to Call for Assistance from the Austin Zoo
In February of 2023, icing from Winter Storm Mara uprooted trees and dropped limbs throughout the Austin Zoo. No animals were injured because they were all in their nighthouses and dens. The storm left the animals’ outdoor habitats littered with debris and damage to some fencing and roofs. San Antonio Zoo, with one of the country’s most experienced zoological disaster response teams, was notified, and a sixperson disaster response team was deployed.
San Antonio cultural organizations unite to support the ‘Imua Maui Relief Fund’
Four San Antonio organizations—San Antonio Zoo, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, Witte Museum, and Will Smith Foundation—teamed up to encourage donations to the “Imua Maui Relief Fund.” Organized by community donor, Susan Naylor, contributions to the fund directly benefited the children and families that had their lives traumatically disrupted by the Maui wildfires. Imua Family Services, a long-serving non-profit in Maui, managed the funds and ensured that monies raised for relief directly benefited the local community.
Unique Animal Behavior was witnessed During Annular Solar Eclipse Extravaganza
The zoo hosted an extraordinary day of activities centered around the rare opportunity to witness how animals react during an annular solar eclipse, commonly called the “ring of fire.” The moon passed between Earth and the sun, creating a striking halo effect around itself. San Antonio Zoo was perfectly placed for visitors to see this natural wonder. San Antonio Zoo provided guests with special viewing glasses, making it an ideal location for visitors to enjoy the experience. But what set this event apart was the chance to observe the diverse animal behavior during such an event. While it’s possible some of this behavior may have been coincidental, this certainly caused a difference in the typical day for all of ushumans and animals!
OUR First In-Person Dreamnight Since Pandemic for Children with Diverse Healthcare Needs
San Antonio Zoo hosted its first in-person Dreamnight event since the pandemic in June, providing a magical evening of accessibility, fun, and wildlife for children with varying healthcare needs, including but not limited to chronic illness and developmental conditions.
San Antonio Zoo began hosting Dreamnight in 2017, and for the past three years, has created a behindthe-scenes video of the animals for the patients who could not visit in person due to the pandemic.
Conservation
Milestone Achievement: 22 Critically Endangered
Burmese Mountain Tortoises
Successfully Hatched
San Antonio Zoo was thrilled to announce the successful hatching of 22 Burmese mountain tortoises, also known as Asian giant tortoises. This remarkable event marks a significant milestone for the zoo and highlights its commitment to conservation efforts.
Conservation
IT’S A BOY! San Antonio Zoo Celebrates the Birth of Gates, an Okapi Calf, a Rare and Endangered Species
San Antonio Zoo proudly announced the birth of a precious okapi calf, adding to the growing family of this elusive and endangered species. The baby boy’s name is Gates, chosen by a generous donor from our Zoobilation Ball fundraiser. Gates was born Saturday, September 2nd, to first-time parents Ludimi and Epulu and generated excitement among staff, highlighting the zoo’s commitment to conservation and wildlife preservation.
Historic First: Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo Achieves Groundbreaking Success with Imperiled Oklahoma Cave Crayfish
With yet another groundbreaking accomplishment, the Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo proudly announced the successful hatching of 47 critically imperiled Oklahoma cave crayfish (Cambarus tartarus), the first births ever in caretivity (the care of man). This historic-first achievement comes from their relentless efforts and unwavering dedication to conservation.
2,802 Puerto Rican Crested Toad Tadpoles RELEASED to Their Native Habitat
San Antonio Zoo successfully released of 2,802 Puerto Rican crested toad (Peltophryne lemur) tadpoles back into their natural habitat in Puerto Rico. This significant milestone marks another step forward in the ongoing conservation efforts to protect and restore the endangered Puerto Rican crested toad population. Since 2010, San Antonio Zoo has been actively involved in breeding Puerto Rican crested toads as part of the Puerto Rican Crested Toad Conservancy (PRCTC) in collaboration with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The zoo has released 37,174 tadpoles into their native Puerto Rican environment.
Conservation
Aquarium Team Makes Historic Breakthrough in Conchos Pupfish Conservation Efforts
San Antonio Zoo’s aquarium team achieved an extraordinary milestone by becoming the first in the world to successfully reproduce the threatened conchos pupfish (Cyprinodon eximus) in human care. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant step forward in conserving this threatened species.
Center for Conservation & Research
Reintroduces 34 Texas Horned Lizards into the Wild
The Center for Conservation and Research (CCR) celebrated a significant milestone by releasing 34 Texas horned lizards into the Texas landscape. These horned lizards hatched at CCR this summer, marking an important step forward for the Texas Horned Lizard Reintroduction Project.
The Texas Horned Lizard Reintroduction Project aims to return this iconic species to places where it has disappeared and to develop replicable methods for establishing viable horned lizard populations that can be shared with others. Last year’s release brought the number of released horned lizards to over 200. The success of previous releases has provided evidence that these remarkable creatures are surviving and thriving in their new environment.
2023 Conservation of the Year Award Goes to Ben Masters
San Antonio Zoo honored filmmaker and wildlife conservationist Ben Masters with the prestigious 2023 Conservation Award at the Education 2 Conservation Celebration Luncheon in April. Masters’ dedication to wildlife conservation and the environment made him a deserving recipient of the award.
Masters is renowned for his work in wildlife and adventure film making, having worked on several successful conservation projects. His remarkable work has shown the world’s beauty on the big screen and has reached countless viewers. He is most recently recognized for writing and directing the featurelength film, Deep in the Heart: A Texas Wildlife Story, narrated by Matthew McConaughey and featuring San Antonio Zoo, which explores the beauty and diversity of Texas’ natural world while addressing the challenges it faces.
Photo by Caitlin Bailey
Blooms, Bees & Butterflies WERE Celebrated IN Spring of 2023
The zoo blossomed into a kaleidoscope of colors for its Spring attraction , featuring larger-than-life glass sculptures of butterflies, bees, praying mantis, and more! Guests and friendly pollinators enjoyed acres of the zoo’s botanical beauty with daily activities, including animal encounters, dance parties, craft stations, and educational performances. San Antonio Zoo is home to over one thousand plant and animal species ranging from extinct in the wild to natives of Texas right in your backyard. Blooms, Bees & Butterflies provided the perfect environment to see the scenic wonders of nature in full effect alongside astonishing sculptures by artist Alex Heveri.
The 27th Annual Zoo-La-La! A Taste of San Antonio
San Antonio Zoo hosted its largest one-night-adult-only fundraiser in May with over 50 of the area’s premiere restaurants and headliner artists, Tone Loc and Rob Base. Zoo-La-La! A Taste of San Antonio, Presented by Higginbotham, provided guests with an all-inclusive evening of delicious food, beer, wine, and entertainment. The VIP experience was also available with exclusive lounges, specialty cocktails, and early event entry.
Whether in Love, Out of Love, or Looking for Love, San Antonio Zoo is Your Heart-Day Hub!
With the return of the Cry Me a Cockroach Fundraiser, where participants symbolically name a roach, rodent, or veggie after their exes as a snack for the zoo’s animal residents, 2023 had one of the wildest Valentine’s seasons yet! For those who were looking for love, the zoo offered the Meet Your Next Ex singles event that attracted more than 800 bachelors and bachelorettes for an evening of speed dating, music, and more. For those celebrating love, the zoo offered the opportunity to dine with hippos Timothy and Uma in a romantic candlelit cave in Africa Live! San Antonio Zoo always has something for everyone during each Valentine’s season, with exciting offerings and events designed for those in love, out of love, and looking for love.
Guinness World Records
Certificate Presentation for World’s Largest Bat Colony
San Antonio Zoo invited guests and media on the Great Lawn to kick off its Summer attraction, Wild World Records. Bat Conservation Internationals Bracken Bat Cave. A Guinness World Records adjudicator presented a certificate to Bat Conservation International Bracken Cave for having the largest bat colony in the world.
Zoo Works to Beat the Summer Heat
In partnership with Friedrich Air Conditioning, San Antonio Zoo offered a host of new COOL ways for guests to beat the Texas heat and enjoy an unforgettable CHILL zoo experience. Unlimited, complimentary soft drinks, Powerade, and water were offered for the remainder of the month. San Antonio Zoo’s Great Lawn hosted ‘Splashin’ Safari Water Parties with musical performances by our Hype Squad and epic water battles for all ages in one big splash zone. Additionally, outdoor ‘Cool Zones’ were set up on zoo pathways, providing visitors with complimentary water, benches, and muchneeded air conditioning by Friedrich Air Conditioning.
Pokémon GO Fest: The Ultimate Pokémon GO Adventure
San Antonio Zoo was thrilled to announce the largest Pokémon event of the year, Pokémon GO Fest. The two-day extravaganza promised wild adventures, in-game opportunities, special guest appearances, and free card giveaways, making it a must-attend event for Pokémon enthusiasts of all ages.
41st Annual Zoobilation Ball
In the heart of San Antonio, under the starlit sky, the 41st Annual Zoobilation Ball unfolded at San Antonio Zoo. With Carolina and AJ Lewis IV as Chairs and Ashley and Conner Quintanilla as Co-chairs, the theme “Out of Africa” transported guests to a world of wild splendor on November 10, 2023.
This magical evening was a crucial pillar supporting the zoo’s financial health and conservation work. The Zoobilation Ball, known as the primary annual fundraiser for the zoo’s $35 million operating budget, pushed to new successes by raising over $2 million for the second year in a row. This overwhelming generosity from the community highlighted their unwavering dedication to conservation and education.
New at the Zoo
New Entrance Grand Opening
San Antonio Zoo was thrilled to have guests join us for the momentous occasion— the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the newly transformed Zoo Entrance. This exciting event marked a significant milestone in the ongoing commitment to providing an exceptional visitor experience and fostering a deeper connection with wildlife and conservation.
Scan QR code for the Grand Opening video
Pictured: City Manager, Erik Walsh, President & CEO, Tim Morrow, Mayor Ron Nirenberg
New at the Zoo
Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot
Re-imagined & Renovated
Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot at San Antonio Zoo is proud to announce the completion of its 1.5-acre re-imagining, offering an immersive experience for knee-high naturalists and their families. With the addition of the John & Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest, Discovery PLAYce, and all new outdoor play are called Go Wild! Guests can embark on a journey of exploration and discovery like never before.
The John & Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest is at the heart of the expansion. In addition, guests can explore Discovery PLAYce, an interactive space designed to stimulate creativity and imagination in young children. Lastly, Go Wild! the all-new outdoor nature play area features a mud kitchen, nature-inspired structures, stroller coasters, and much more! Publications such as Parents Magazine and Reader’s Digest have recognized this area as a compelling part of what makes San Antonio Zoo a top zoo for kids in the country.
John & Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest Debuts
San Antonio Zoo is delighted to announce the grand opening of the John and Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest, a breathtaking sanctuary where visitors can experience the enchanting beauty of butterflies from all over the world up close and personal. This brand-new habitat offers a year-round cozy home for hundreds of butterflies nestled within lush foliage and adorned with bold bouquets.
The John and Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest provides guests with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the magical world of butterflies viewing many different stages from chrysalis to adulthood.
Meerkats Are Back In AN All New Habitat!
San Antonio Zoo was thrilled to announce the return of meerkats to the zoo, bringing these playful creatures back after a 27-year absence. This curious species, also known as Suricata suricatta, come from the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa and belong to the playful mongoose family. Visitors to the new meerkat habitat in Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot can meet a family of five adorable meerkats living in a social group called a “mob.” During foraging, one meerkat stands guard, perching on its hind legs, and watches the rest of the group. These social animals communicate through vocalizations, creating an intriguing show of nature. To celebrate the opening of the meerkat habitat, San Antonio Zoo threw an epic Pop-Up Meerkat Mob Party featuring a Meerkat Mail story time, meerkats bug hunt, meerkat mob dance party, animal interactions, and a meet and greet with San Antonio Zoo mascot, Cowboy!
New at the Zoo
Texas Horned Lizard Lab Expansion Quadruples Space!
Since its inception in 2017, the Center for Conservation & Research at San Antonio Zoo (CCR) has worked hard to secure a future for the beloved Texas horned lizard, more commonly known by locals as horny toads. CCR also leads work with indigenous tribes in Peru, the Mexican blindcat, environmental DNA rough-footed turtles, and Ozark and Appalachian cave work. From 2017 to 2023, CCR has released nearly 200 lizards back into the local landscape.
The expansion of the lizard labs at San Antonio Zoo quadruples the space, enabling growth in the center’s breeding program, quarantine location, and nursery for egg incubation, neonatal care, and rearing of hatchlings. Each lab will be outfitted with electrical power, drainage, well water, and tap water, identical to the current lizard lab. This will allow the team to secure a future for even more beloved Texas horned lizards.
New Animal Ambassador Theater
Unveil the Animal Ambassador stage inside Ambassador Plaza across from the Friederich Aquarium. This brand-new stage offers guests an exciting opportunity to experience daily presentations and meet the Animal Ambassador residents up close and personal.
The Animal Ambassador stage is a dedicated space that provides guests with meaningful and impactful interactions with our feathery, scaley, and furry friends alongside the animal care specialists who ensure their wellbeing. Through engaging presentations and handson experiences, guests can learn about these amazing animals and their importance to conservation. San Antonio Zoo aims to ignite a sense of empathy and responsibility toward saving these species and their habitats by providing an up-close connection between the guests and wildlife.
New Observational Beehive in Discovery PLAYce
San Antonio Zoo announced a new observational beehive, which opened in Discovery PLAYce. Visitors now have the opportunity to observe the roles of bees closely in a habitat that will showcase the importance of the bee population and how they play a crucial part in pollination and honey production. The colony of honey bees at the observational hive habitat can come and go as they please through a specially designed entrance and exit to the outside. The beehive gives visitors an up-close view of their behavior and allows them to witness how the bees work together to maintain their intricate colony.
New at the Zoo
Rock Wallabies are Back!
After nearly five years, San Antonio Zoo is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved yellow-footed rock wallabies. Meet Milo and Mirhi, the hoppiest little zoo residents, as they explore their new habitat at Wild Australia next to the Aldabra Tortoises. Yellow-footed rock wallabies are an adorable species native to the isolated mountains of Australia. Known for their captivating and bright fur colors, these wallabies boast one of the most distinctive appearances among all wallabies and kangaroos. Their brown, gray, white, yellow, or orange fur provides camouflage among the surrounding rocks, allowing them to blend easily into their environment. With the ability to move quickly around mountain tops and jump as far as 13 feet, these agile animals are a sight to behold.
San Antonio Zoo is committed to educating guests about the importance of these animals and the critical need to protect their natural habitat. Guests who visit the zoo can now enjoy Milo and Mirhi as they explore their new habitat and interact with each other. We invite visitors to celebrate the return of these adorable animal residents and learn more about their vital role in their ecosystem.
Meet Baby Sloth, Aluna
Welcome Aluna, the baby sloth! Since her arrival, Aluna has captured the hearts of visitors and staff alike, becoming an integral part of the zoo’s mission to educate and inspire people to learn about the wonders of nature.
Aluna is a Linnaeus Two-toed sloth native to the tropical rainforest of Central America and Northern South America. Also known as the Southern Two-toed sloth, these beautiful creatures are renowned for their leisurely lifestyle, spending much of their time hanging from trees and moving slowly. Rarely descending from their canopy to only move between trees or use the bathroom.
New at the Zoo
Lars the Black Palm Cockatoo JOINS Animal Ambassador Team
San Antonio Zoo announced the newest addition to its esteemed Animal Ambassador Team, Lars the black palm cockatoo. Born at San Antonio Zoo in April 2022, Lars has quickly become an integral part of our mission to educate and inspire visitors about the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Black palm cockatoos (Probosciger aterrimus) are a captivating species native to New Guinea, the Aru Islands, and the Cape York Peninsula. Known for their remarkable intelligence and unique courtship rituals, black palm cockatoos have gained recognition as the only documented species to create and utilize tools to produce sound. The male birds modify sticks and seed pods to create “drumsticks,” they rhythmically bang on trees to attract a mate. Each black palm cockatoo boasts its distinctive drumming style, making them truly remarkable creatures.
Lars was named after Lars Ulrich, the renowned drummer for Metallica, paying homage to the black palm cockatoo’s intriguing courtship behavior. Just like his namesake, Lars captivates audiences with his charismatic presence, engaging personality, and, of course, his drumming skills.
Since 2017, San Antonio Zoo has been the sole facility to successfully breed black palm cockatoos.
Bactrian Camels Trot into San Antonio Zoo
San Antonio Zoo received a visit from five Bactrian camels! These impressive animals, known for their distinctive two humps, are one of the most adaptable species on the planet.
Native to Northern Asia, Bactrian Camels are wellsuited to withstand extreme temperature changes; their ability to thrive in diverse landscapes has earned them the nickname “the ships of the desert.” Despite their adaptability, Bactrian camels face significant challenges in the wild, with habitat loss being their greatest threat. The Bactrian camels have since moved to a new home due to the zoos savanna expansion.
will smith ZOO school
Will Smith Zoo School Wins Texas Society of Architects’ 2023 Design Award
Our innovative nature-based educational institution, Will Smith Zoo School, was honored with the prestigious Texas Society of Architects’ 2023 Design Award. This esteemed accolade recognizes the school’s commitment to providing preschool students with a unique opportunity to learn about nature, wildlife, and conservation through immersive, hands-on experiences.
Designed by the renowned San Antonio-based architecture firm Lake | Flato Architects, the facility embodies a harmonious blend of educational excellence and sustainable design principles. Collaborating closely with the zoo staff, Lake | Flato Architects has created a campus that nurtures young minds while fostering a deep connection with the natural world.
Will Smith Zoo School’s New Campus Celebrates Its 5th Anniversary
The new campus of Will Smith Zoo School, San Antonio Zoo’s nature-based preschool celebrated its 5th anniversary in April. Since its new campus opening in 2018, the school has transformed the way children learn and explore the natural world, creating a waiting list of over 8,000 families eager to enroll their children. The school is named in honor of zoo board member Susan Naylor’s late son, who loved spending time at the zoo and outdoors in nature.
Wildly Successful Partnership with Trinity University and Will Smith Zoo School
Will Smith Zoo School partnered with Trinity University’s Practicum-Early Childhood Teaching Exploration course to foster experiential learning and community engagement. The students observed and participated in classroom observations and lessons that are framed around researchbased standards and incorporate the natural world. This allows both organizations to develop a broader skill set as they learn to adapt and create effective lesson plans that integrate developmentally appropriate standards with outdoor and nature-based activities. Seven Trinity students participated in the course this semester, making it wildly successful.
Kids Zoo Ball Names King & Queen of the Jungle
March marked the month San Antonio Zoo named the 2023 King & Queen of the Jungle at their kid-friendly gala, the 5th annual Kids Zoo Ball. The gala’s theme was Once Upon a Tail and offered a mocktail hour, silent auction, dinner, presentation of the Jungle Court winners and an evening of fun activities for children and their parents. Kids Zoo Ball allows kids to support a cause they are passionate about.
“Kids Zoo Ball is our kid version of our annual black-tie fundraiser, Zoobilation Ball,” said Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Kids raising funds for the zoo to get a spot on our royal zoo court is helping to secure a future for wildlife and we hope it instills the importance of philanthropy in the community.”
Nature Niños, an Intro to Nature-Based Learning
KIDS ZOO BALL WINNERS
2023 Kids Zoo Ball
Jungle Court
QUEEN OF THE JUNGLE: Brooklyn Faith Robles
KING OF THE JUNGLE: Diego Martinez
PRINCESS OF THE JUNGLE: Penelope Butler
PRINCE OF THE JUNGLE: Campbell Childers
DUCHESS OF THE JUNGLE: Evelyn Bohls
DUKE OF THE JUNGLE: John Henry Rinn
Lady of the Jungle: Grace Alford
LORD OF THE JUNGLE: Everett Halgas
Will Smith Zoo School, known for its commitment to early childhood education and environmental stewardship, announced the launch of Nature Niñosa program designed to introduce families with infants and toddlers to the wonders of nature-based learning. Nature Niños offers a unique platform for parents and children to explore, learn, and grow together. Families are encouraged to immerse themselves in the natural world through various interactive activities such as water-play, mud-play, sand-play, loose parts exploration, and animal interactions. Nature Niños aims to instill a lifelong love of nature in children while providing parents with the tools necessary to support their learning journey.
A RECORD Breaking Year!
Will Smith School 110 different zip codes Education Center
108,000 field trip visitors
57% from Title 1 schools Education Camps
1,365 summer campers
8,010 Education Hours
THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 DONORS
$10,000,000
Ralston Family Foundation
$1,000,000 - $3,000,000
H-E-B
SSA Group
John R. and Greli N. Less Charitable Trust
The Greg Kowalski Family
Mays Family Foundation
The Greehey Family Foundation
John L. Nau III
Silver Eagle Beverages
$500,000 - $999,999
Texas Capital Bank
The Charles Butt Foundation
Robert and Anna Sigman
$100,000 - $499,999
Charles and Stacy Clines
Donald G. Elliott and Denise L. Elliott
Cynthia Grossman
Geraldine G. Lawson Charitable Trust
The Louis Herbert Stumberg Jr., Fund Circle Bar Foundation
Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundation
Anonymous
The Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation
Thomas and Maryanne Guido
Cosmo M. and Danielle Guido
Vincent D. and Cindy Dawson
Estela Avery
Bernard and Kathy L. Swift
V. H. McNutt Memorial Foundation, Inc.
Karen J. Hixon
Tim and Karen Hixon Foundation
Guido Companies
Mark and Mary R. Barrett
Marcus (Marko) Barrett and Sheila Cardenas-Barrett
Michael J. and Mary Pat Bolner
Robert S. and Amy Brewer
Herrmann-Zeller Charitable Foundation
Mike and Meredith H. Howard
Howard Energy Partners
Texas A&M University - San Antonio
The Carroll & Marguerite Wheeler Foundation
$50,000 - $99,999
Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust
Stella C. Herff Charitable Trust
Valero Energy Corporation
Brad and Julie Waibel
Megan and Sam B. (Tres) Steves III
Philip and Elizabeth H. Jacobs
The Rugeley Ferguson Foundation
Patrick and Kathleen R. Kennedy
James and Kelly S. Daniell
Angel Staffing, Inc.
William (Billy) and Cheryl Freed
Carolina and AJ Lewis IV
Anonymous Tony Parker
The Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation
The M.R.S Foundation
Winkler Family Foundation
$15,000 - $49,999
Bank of Texas
Biglari Foundation
Frost Bank
Rick Liberto
Susan Naylor
R.I. Zoological Society
Estate of Martha Esther Burt Averyt
Quality Urgent Care
Genevieve Niederberger Trust
Neal Wagner and Deborah L. Callanan
Chad and Tania Eubanks
Ken Batchelor Cadillac
Steves Charitable Foundation
Minnifield Enterprize, Inc.
Sergio and Alice B. Viroslav
Vaughn Vasconcellos and Suzanne D. Martin
Manion Family Trust
Marathon Oil Corporation
Gary and Joni R. Raba
The Adam R Scripps Foundation
Gilbert F. Vazquez and Crystal De La Garza
Bruce Walker
Warriors Heart
Tracy Avery
The Quintanilla Family
$10,000 - $14,999
Happy and Elizabeth P. Rogers
Lynn E. and Caroline Laurence
William T. and Nancy Maloy
Steve Behringer
Laddie and Camille L. Denton
Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc.
George P. and Julie Parker
Darnell Crump and Annita Hereford-Crump
Gina Langley
Jon R. and Shannon Turner
Allegiance Refining, Operator of The San Antonio Refinery
Will and Minnie M. Baird
Anonymous
Nelson Puett Foundation
North Park Toyota of San Antonio
Glyn Hack
Victoria Beavers
Jefferson Bank
Patrick J. Perron
In memory of Mark R. Hurt
Ken L. and Denise Schlaudt
Thomas and Patsy Inglet
Anonymous
Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation
Anonymous
$5,000 - $9,999
Jin Ha
Cavender Auto Family
Big Sun Solar
Malitz Construction, Inc.
Chase and Ross H. Studer
Hector A. Troche
Escondido Hunting
Alamo Colleges Foundation
Jeff and Kathleen A. Bolner
Kiolbassa Smoked Meats
Susan and Jeff Gray III
Graystone Consulting - Morgan
Stanley
Michael and Beth B. Harper
Haynes and Boone, LLP
Michael and Lisa Kelleher
Las Aguilas Enterprises
Liberto Management Co., Inc.
Marsh & McLennan Agency
Patel Gaines Attorney at Law
Patricia Lewis Zoch Children’s Foundation
Presidio Concrete
Fernando R. and Maria Reyes
Steves & Sons
Amy E. Stieren
U.S. Global Investors
Ulrich Investment Consultants
WaterBridge Operating LLC
Conner and Ashley Quintanilla
The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation
Ancira Auto Group
Ancira Enterprises, Inc.
Cavender Cares
John and Tracee K. Feik
Benjamin L. Jones
Robert and Jeanne Latimer
Robert and Julie Miggins
JB and Corinna Richter
John and Libby Williams
Frank and Jill Ruttenberg
Barclay C. Adams
LeAnn Trejo
Capital Group Companies
Charitable Foundation
Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry
The Robert P. And Mariana R. Scripps
Family Foundation
Mark and Carolyn Thornton
Sara Stumberg Walker
Justin A. and Lynzee Hill
Steve and Susan C. Lewis
Muriel F. Siebert Foundation
Sendero Wealth Management
Wells Fargo Bank
Re:Wild
Robert and Rebecca L. Eckerle
Carol Lee Jones Educational and Cultural Fund of the SAAF
Acorn Pediatrics of San Antonio
Aggregate Haulers, Inc.
Amy Shelton McNutt Charitable Trust
John C. and Carla Brozovich
C.H. Guenther & Son
Jonathan and Helen L. Dear
John W. and Rita Feik
HIVE Digital Technologies
Hixon Properties Incorporated
Mark M. and Carolyn Johnson
Robert (Roby) and Rosa Latimer
LKCM South Texas Partners LLC
Mary Hobbs Griffith Foundation
Moody Gardens
Nancy Smith Hurd Foundation
Nathalie and Gladys Dalkowitz Charitable Trust
Charles and Lida Plummer
PNC Bank
Ronald and Joan Moss Donor Advised
Fund at Rancho Santa Fe Foundation
The DMS Fund
McLean and Kelly Russell
Robert P. and Melanie Thomas
Union Pacific Foundation
Ned Hodge and Laura Berg Hodge
Tara Childers
Fern Lee (Missy) Finck
Norma Reyes
The Harris K. & Lois G. Oppenheimer Foundation
Stanley and Susan B. Casto Anonymous
Natural Bridge Caverns
Linda C. Janysek
Wayne K. Pfeiffer
McLean and Missie Bowman
Elizabeth D. Conklyn
Dallas Safari Club
Marshall E. Dujka
Estate of Robert Cutshall
Insco Distributing
Michael and Nicola McLaughlin
John and Carolyn Meyer
Enzo T. Pellegrino
Jim and Kelly Satel
The Alfred S. Gage Foundation
The Nordan Trust
Jeanmarie M. Tulipane
Tuleta White
Edwin (Eli) J. Whitney
John (William) and Jayme D. Russell
Johnny and Ruthie Russell
Roberto and Aurora Sanchez
