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2025 SAZoo AR

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Over 700 different species

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 supported more than 273 conservation projects

Letter from the CEO

community connects with wildlife. We celebrated the opening

of The Ralston, our premier event destination offering unprecedented views of the city skyline, Congo Falls, and Big Cat Valley. Whether hosting galas, fundraisers, weddings, or corporate gatherings, this extraordinary space elevates every celebration while directly supporting our mission.

The most defining zoological achievement of 2025 was the opening of Congo Falls, a two-acre, immersive habitat now home to seven western lowland gorillas, a critically endangered species. Featuring three expansive habitats, overhead pathways, elevated viewpoints, and 360-degree viewing, Congo Falls reimagines how guests and gorillas share space. Signature elements include Will Smith Foundation Infinity Falls, a dramatic 30-foot waterfall with interactive water-play areas, and Mays Family Silverback Peak, the world’s tallest gorilla tower, rising more than 70 feet above the zoo with sweeping views of downtown San Antonio. Congo Falls represents the future of San Antonio Zoo—and what’s possible when passionate people come together for wildlife.

Beyond these exciting additions, 2025 also brought meaningful moments in animal care and conservation across San Antonio Zoo. We welcomed Kicheko, a young giraffe who joined the herd at Naylor Savanna, and introduced our newest mascot, Savanna, symbolizing our long-term commitment to giraffe conservation. We also celebrated meaningful conservation wins, including the birth of Adore, a critically endangered cotton-top tamarin. Our teams achieved rare successes as well, from breeding three Congo peafowl to supporting endangered species work in herpetology through the births of Mexican montane rattlesnakes.

From everyday moments to unforgettable getaways, our guests found more ways than ever to connect with San Antonio Zoo in 2025. Over 152,115 train riders enjoyed trips around historic Brackenridge Park, and Spekboom Lodge welcomed 402 guests from around the world — extending our mission beyond San Antonio and creating another meaningful way for supporters to engage with wildlife conservation.

Letter from the CEO

Title I schools—with donor support helping cover visits for students who otherwise would not have access to the zoo. In addition, we expanded early childhood education through a groundbreaking public-private partnership between Will Smith Zoo School and Seguin ISD, the first of its kind in Texas, bringing tuition-free, naturebased learning to families and transforming outdoor spaces into immersive classrooms where curiosity leads the curriculum. At the Will Smith Zoo School campus, we also piloted our first-ever kindergarten class.

Our progress in 2025 did not go unnoticed, and we were proud to be recognized on a national stage. San Antonio Zoo climbed to #2 in Newsweek’s Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Zoo in the Nation and was named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 10 Zoos in the Nation. The zoo was also recognized among USA TODAY’s Top 10 Zoo Experiences and Top 10 Zoo Memberships, while Zoo Lights was ranked #4 Best Zoo Lights in the nation. We were further honored to receive the AZA Half-Century Award, marking 50 consecutive years of accreditation, and our aquarium team earned the ZAA Ex Situ Conservation Award for their groundbreaking work on the Conchos Pupfish Recovery Project.

None of this would be possible without the extraordinary commitment of our donors. As one of the few accredited zoos in the nation that operates without governmental subsidies, guest visitation and philanthropic support are foundational to everything we do. Your generosity fuels conservation, education, and unforgettable experiences —and I am deeply grateful for your partnership.

As we move into 2026, thank you for believing in San Antonio Zoo and helping us build a future where wildlife and people thrive—now and for generations to come.

Scan the QR Code to check out our end of year video

Board of directors

Mary R. Barrett

Camille L. Denton

Brandon E. Grossman

Wilbur Matthews II

Jayme Russell

Board of Directors

Eric Abati

Sheila C. Barrett

Victoria Beavers

Susan Beldon

Valerie Collins

Ann Allen Cross, DVM, MS

Tom Cury

Kelly S. Daniell

Louis R. DiSabato**

Joey DiSabato

Denise Elliott

Alexis Elliott-Stabler

KJ Feder

Tracee Feik

Homer Garcia

Drew Greller, VMD, DACVO

Valerie Guenther*

Cosmo M. Guido

Annita Hereford-Crump

Justin Hill

George S. “Timo” Hixon

Laura Berg Hodge

James Hollis

Andrea Holmes Garcia

Meredith Howard

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

social media highlights

1.1 bILLION

Video Views*

$130 Million

Earned media*

9.4 bILLION

Estimated impressions

*across all platforms

Gorilla Grams

San Antonio Zoo’s Gorilla Grams give guests a behind-thescenes look at the return of gorillas, sharing sneak peeks of their habitats, daily care, and natural behaviors while highlighting the team dedicated to their wellbeing.

Scan this QR Code to watch Gorilla Grams on YouTube!

Scan the QR code to check out the zoo’s most viewed video of 2025 with over 202 Million views!

MORE THAN 1.18 MILLION visitors in 2025

$283 MILLION impact in revenue and sales in the community open year round operating calendar offers wide accessibility san antonio zoo’s economic impact to the community Supports 957 jobs in the community established 1914

Operated by San Antonio Zoological Society, a private 501(c)(3) non-profit

693,225 room nights generated by tourists

Economic Impact 2025

$16,056,713 direct workers salaries indirect and induced jobs salaries

jobs supported by the zoo result in sales for local businesses The zoo supported an estimated 957 jobs in the community in 2025. The spending of these workers amounted to the following sales in local businesses.

$30,424,260 workers’ salaries

80% of income spent in local businesses

$24,339,408 total spending

$6,328,246 $14,367,547

26% spent on taxable purchases taxable spending by workers

Economic Impact 2025

355,500 out-of-town visitors $200 visitor daily spending lodging sales

$207.9 million total local retail & room sales

2025 revenues in the san antonio area supported by the zoo

During 2025, the zoo generated $283 million in revenues for San Antonio area businesses. This figure on a local level is equivalent to the nation’s gross domestic product.

total workers’ salaries sales by businesses in the community to the zoo sales in businesses in the community by out-of-town visitors room nights generated by tourists sales in businesses in the community to direct and indirect workers

462,150 $6.32 million

$283 million total economic impact $69.3 million $138.6 million $30.4 million $29.2 million

Awards & Accolades

top 10 Best Zoo membership

USA Today

top 10 Best Zoo experiences

Flamingo Mingle

USA Today

Best Zoo Lights in texas USA Today

Notable Awards

#1 Tourist Attraction MySA

Best nonprofit Animal Care Services San Antonio Business Journal

Ex situ conservation Award Conchos pupfish recovery project

ZAA

Half century award

AZA

Education award innovation - Dungeons & Dragons game night

AZA

Best Family Attraction San Antonio Current

Best Zoo Lights in texas USA TODAY

Best place to support conservation SA Magazine

New at the zoo

Congo Falls Brings Gorillas Back to San Antonio Zoo

For the first time in more than three decades, San Antonio Zoo welcomed gorillas back with the debut of Congo Falls, a two-acre, world-class habitat. This landmark addition represents a defining moment in the zoo’s 111-year history and signals a new era of innovative habitat design, conservation leadership, education, and exceptional animal care.

Congo Falls is home to seven western lowland gorillas living across three immersive environments featuring lush landscaping, water elements, enrichment spaces, and expansive viewing areas. Signature features include The Mays Family Silverback Peak, the tallest gorilla tower in the world at more than 70 feet, and a thoughtfully designed layout that provides 360-degree views for both guests and gorillas, creating a truly immersive experience.

Congo Falls embodies San Antonio Zoo’s deep commitment to global conservation through participation in the AZA Species Survival Plan and SAFE program, as well as partnerships with organizations like GRACE and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Together, these efforts help ensure sustainable gorilla populations, protect critical habitats, and strengthen the future of one of the world’s most endangered species.

congo Falls vip night

San Antonio Zoo celebrated the opening of Congo Falls with an exclusive VIP evening highlighted by a breathtaking 15-minute drone show. Four hundred illuminated drones filled the night sky in custom formations honoring western lowland gorillas and the zoo’s conservation mission.

Scan the Qr code to watch a recap of congo falls grand opening!

New at the zoo

based on final layout and logistics, with indoor and outdoor space available. The venue features captivating wildlife and skyline views, customizable lighting, a covered patio and adjacent courtyard, and exclusive access to the Greg Kowalski Family Courtyard. Named in honor of Laurie Ralston, the space was made possible by philanthropist Shannon Ralston’s $10 million gift, the largest in the zoo’s history.

Butterflies first flight

In 2025, San Antonio Zoo introduced Butterfly’s First Flight in the John and Greli Less Butterfly Rainforest. Guests can release a newly emerged butterfly into its rainforest home and witness its first flight while learning about the vital role butterflies play in pollination and ecosystem health, inspiring support for conservation.

Scan the Qr code to watch a recap of The Ralston ribbon cutting event!

New at the zoo

safari experience across the Naylor Savanna. Home to some of Africa’s most iconic species, including giraffes, zebras, and sitatungas, the expansive landscape set the stage for an unforgettable journey. Guests can travel in custom-outfitted Toyota Tundras, donated by North Park Toyota and outfitted by South Texas Outfitters, offering an up-close look at wildlife while learning about the zoo’s ongoing commitment to conservation.

ZOOBAND, AN ALL-NEW WAY FOR MEMBERS TO LEVEL UP THEIR ZOO EXPERIENCE

San Antonio Zoo introduced the ZooBand, a free membership perk that makes visits faster and more connected. The wearable band stores membership information for quick admission, enables cashless purchases, allows members to purchase and redeem Animal Encounters, access exclusive perks, and set spending limits for kids, streamlining family visits with a simple tap.

Scan the QR code to watch a video all about ZooBand!

New at the zoo

hyenas, lions, Komodo dragons, and tigers display natural behaviors during non-live feedings, while supporting their enrichment and wellbeing.

Meet Savanna: San Antonio Zoo’s New Ambassador for Giraffe Conservation

San Antonio Zoo introduced Savanna the Giraffe, a new mascot created to represent the zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Savanna serves as a fun and engaging ambassador, raising awareness about the global giraffe crisis and supporting the zoo’s efforts with the Giraffe Conservation Foundation to protect giraffes and their habitats.

San Antonio Zoo launched Behind the Scenes: Capybara, a new experience that brings guests up close with resident capybaras Ralphie and Fauna. Visitors can feed these charismatic animals while learning about their behaviors and their role in South America’s wetlands.

Scan the QR code to watch a video of the Capybara Behind-the-scenes

New Capybara Behind-the-scenes

New at the zoo

the zoo’s total to 20 pygmy falcons hatched in its history, marking another major milestone made possible by the dedicated care of the aviculture team and the zoo’s continued commitment to conservation. According to Species360, these are the first pygmy falcon chicks to hatch in a U.S. zoo in the past year and the first at San Antonio Zoo since 2004.

Births/Hatches

The birth of these newborn animals represents a significant conservation victory and offers hope for preserving their species for future generations.

Congo Peafowl

New at the zoo

name means “laughter” in Swahili, a fitting nod to the joy he brings with his calm and curious nature. His arrival, part of the AZA Species Survival Plan, supported giraffe conservation while giving guests new opportunities to connect with the herd through experiences like giraffe feeding, Conserfari Tours, and overnight stays at Spekboom Lodge.

African pygmy falcon

American avocet

American tube-dwelling anemone

Bat-eared fox

Black-casqued hornbill

Bladdertipped anemone

Blue baboon tarantula

Blue green chromis

Blue-throated macaw

Bristletail filefish

Brown tarantula

Burrowing owl

Calvus cichlid

Caribbean giant cockroach

Carpet viper

Chocolate chip sea star

Chuckwalla

Cockatoo dwarf cichlid

Common ostrich

Congo tetra

Convict surgeon

Curl-crested aracari

Curlyhair tarantula

Delaware County cave crayfish

Elegant shrimp

Elephant skin coral

Elephantnose fish

Emerald dwarf danio

Emu

European long-nosed viper

F cichlid

Fairy basslet

Fairy bluebird

Fantastic leaf-tailed gecko

Forktail blueeye

Freshwater angelfish

Frog-eyed sand gecko

Galah

Georgia blind salamander

Giant Caribbean anemone

Giant horned lizard

Greater flamingo

Green keel-bellied lizard

Green mantella

Green pincushion urchin

Green reef crab

Green-naped pheasant-pigeon

Hadada ibis

Hairy decorator crab

Helmeted guineafowl

Hillstream butterfly loach

Horn coral

Jamaican boa

Knobby candelabrum

Komodo dragon

Lake Malawi cichlid

Lemonpeel angelfish

Lightfoot snail

Long-tailed chinchilla

Madagascar tree boa

Malawi eye-biter

Marabou stork

Montipora coral

Neon day gecko

Nine-banded armadillo

Northern helmeted curassow

Northern tree shrew

Pink flasher wrasse

Pink-backed pelican

Pinktail chalceus

Puerto Rican crested toad

Red cornsnake

Red kangaroo

Redbelly Toad

Red-knobbed pigeon

Redlined cleaner shrimp

Reticulated giraffe

Rusty cichlid

Sea hare

Sharp-knobbed mud snail

Sitatunga

Sonoran Desert millipede

Southern screamer

Southern tamandua

Southseas devil

Spotfin hatchetfish

Spotted platyfish

Spur-winged lapwing

Swan goose

Tamaulipan rock rattlesnake

Tammar wallaby

Texas horned lizard

Three-colored hermit crab

Tiger ratsnake

Turban snail

Venus sea fan

Vinegaroon

Violet turaco

Western lowland gorilla

White stork

White-lipped island pitviper

Whooping crane

Yellow-blotched palm pitviper

Zebra cichlid

conservation

reproduce the threatened Conchos pupfish in human care. In partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife, the program has grown a thriving assurance population, highlighting the zoo’s leadership in aquatic conservation and its commitment to protecting even the smallest species.

2025 Wildlife Conservation of the Year Award at E2c luncheon

San Antonio Zoo hosted its 10th annual Education 2 Conservation Celebration Luncheon on April 23, honoring the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) and its Executive Director and Co-Founder, Stephanie Fennessy, with the prestigious Wildlife Conservation of the Year Award. The event raised critical funds for global giraffe protection, including a $10,000 donation to support GCF’s conservation work across 21

African countries. The annual luncheon highlighted the zoo’s commitment to conservation and celebrated the collective impact of supporters helping protect giraffes from silent extinction.

conservation

Dr. Danté Fenolio Named Four-Time Finalist for Prestigious Wolfgang Kiessling International Prize for Species Conservation

Prize for Species Conservation, recognizing his decades of global impact in protecting endangered species and habitats. One of the world’s top honors in conservation, the Kiessling Prize celebrates leaders whose work advances species recovery and habitat protection, with finalists selected from more than 30 countries. Dr. Fenolio’s career includes pioneering breeding programs for rare salamanders and founding Project Selva, an indigenous community-based initiative in Amazonian Peru, highlighting San Antonio Zoo’s growing role in global conservation.

conservation

Texas Horned Lizard Reintroduction Project with the release of 28 horned lizards into managed native habitat, marking the sixth consecutive year of reintroduction efforts. Since 2020, more than 300 zoo-hatched lizards have been released into the wild, rehabilitated Texas landscape. There is evidence that the released lizards are surviving, signaling positive progress for the declining species. Through science, collaboration with partners like Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and Zoo Miami, and long-term field monitoring, the project is helping restore an iconic symbol of Texas to its rightful landscape.

Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation Podcast

San Antonio Zoo debuted Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation, hosted by Dr. Danté Fenolio, Ph.D, and his daughter Sierra. This podcast explores wildlife conservation, connecting local efforts to global impact. Episodes are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube, with a new episode premiering every other week.

happenings

only the second zoo in the world and the first in Texas to receive this honor. The distinction places the zoo among an elite group of institutions recognized for meeting the highest standards in veterinary medicine, patient safety, and animal wellbeing. Awarded after an extensive evaluation of more than 900 benchmarks, the accreditation reflects San Antonio Zoo’s continued leadership in providing world-class care for every animal in its care.

Wildlife Rescue, presented by Bank of Texas

In the spring of 2025, children explored, climbed, and learned about endangered species with Wildlife Rescue, presented by Bank of Texas, a hands-on adventure featuring 12 life-sized animal sculptures in Kronkosky’s Tiny Tot Nature Spot. Featured animals included Black Rhinoceros, Cheetah, Pangolin, Panamanian Golden Frog, Orangutan with a baby on the back, and more.

happenings

top restaurants, along with curated wines, craft cocktails, and live entertainment from Intensity Band Houston. Proceeds support San Antonio Zoo’s conservation efforts, protecting wildlife in Texas and around the world.

San Antonio Zoo celebrated 40 years of the wildest race in town with the 40th Annual Zoo Run on September 5, featuring adult and youth races, commemorative gear, zoo perks, and an after-party, all supporting wildlife conservation. The fun continued with the 40th Annual Kids Zoo Run, presented by H-E-B, where young runners helped protect wildlife with every step.

San Antonio’s beloved Kiddie Park celebrated its 10 anniversary on April 10 with a special centennial e honoring a century of family fun and timeless rides. The festivities featured a time capsule dedication, limited-edition Fiesta medal, giveaways, new birthd party previews, and free commemorative balloons and cupcakes for the first 100 guests. Now part of San Antonio Zoo, the nation’s oldest children’s amusemen park continues to delight new generations while preserving its iconic 1920s charm.

40 Annual Zoo Run & Kids Zoo Run th Presented by h-e-b
Kiddie Park Celebrates 100 Years as America’s Oldest Children’s Amusement Park

happenings

From Zoo Grounds to the Alamo: A Limestone Legacy

spot in 2024 through the magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards. The zoo has also earned the title of Best in Texas five times in the last 6 years and has ranked in the Top 10 nationally for four consecutive years, twice placing No. 2 overall. Additional recent honors include recognition from USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for “Best Zoo Exhibit” and “Best Zoo Membership,” along with a nomination for Best Zoo in the United States. Locally, San Antonio Zoo was also named the “#1 Local Tourist Attraction” in MySA’s 2025 Reader’s Choice Awards.

San Antonio Zoo unexpectedly helped uncover a piece of Texas history with the discovery and verification of the original location of the limestone that supplied the stone for the construction of The Alamo. The find came during excavation for the zoo’s Congo Falls gorilla habitat and The Ralston, when unearthed limestone prompted further investigation. Geological testing and historical research confirmed that the quarry, located on the zoo’s far west side, was a primary source of limestone used in the 1700s to build the Alamo Church and other early San Antonio structures. With more than a century of its own history, San Antonio Zoo was proud to help reveal this remarkable link between the city’s past and present.

happenings

with Big Bugs, a vibrant seasonal attraction that transformed the zoo into a world of larger-than-life insects. Big Bugs invited visitors to wander among towering animatronic insects, including a Dung Beetle, Praying Mantis, Spider, Scorpion, Butterfly, and Bee, with more bugs added throughout the season. The experience offered a fun and engaging way to learn about the vital role insects play in our ecosystems. Big Bugs was big and buzzy, with new surprises for guests to enjoy, including Critter Cruisers, a rideable beetle, an insect slide, and the addition of new bugs. To celebrate the attraction, the Insectería pop-up tent opened, featuring plush bugs and adventurous edible treats such as crickets, scorpions, ant lollipops, and larvae trail mix. Big Bugs was included with zoo admission and was free for members and remained on display from May 24 through September 2, 2025.

Big Bugs Take Over San Antonio Zoo

happenings

habitat in San Antonio Zoo history. It also inspired the biggest Fiesta Medal the zoo had ever created at three inches by three inches. The stunning medal was a

must-have for Fiesta fans and animal lovers alike, offering guests the opportunity to own a unique piece of San Antonio Zoo history.

Art Comes to Life at San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio Zoo has made art a key part of the visitor experience, from the iconic Lion Pride sculpture to the new Bronze Gorilla by Bob Guelich, welcoming guests and celebrating conservation. Additional works, including Gillie and Marc’s Beno Thinking Big and The Wild Table of Love, along with interactive gorilla sculptures and topiaries, bring wildlife stories to life and inspire discovery for guests of all ages.

Zoo Cares: Together for Texans

San Antonio Zoo donated 20,000 complimentary admission tickets—valued at more than $500,000—to flood-affected families, volunteers, and first responders through its Zoo Cares: Together for Texans campaign. During a special $10 admission offer held August 2–10, 2025, the zoo pledged to donate one ticket for every ticket purchased and used. Tickets were distributed with the help of community partners, including Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Hill Country MHDD.

happenings

Rainforest activation, six sugar skull animal sculptu with candy stations, a dog costume contest, and extended hours on Halloween. In support of wildlife conservation, the candy given out during trick-or-treating was eco-friendly, made with sustainably sourced palm oil, benefiting rainforest ecosystems and animals.

Día de los Muertos Celebration Returns to ZOO BOO!

San Antonio Zoo hosted its 4th annual Día de los Muertos Community Animal Ofrenda during ZOO BOO!, presented by PNC Bank, honoring beloved pets. Guests joined in by placing photos of their late companions on a vibrant ofrenda in Zootennial Plaza. The event celebrated life and culture, with complimentary photo printing available on select days, reinforcing the zoo’s commitment to community engagement and remembrance rooted in San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage.

40 Annual Zoo Run th

Presented by h-e-b

Zoo Lights brought bigger, brighter, and wilder holiday magic to San Antonio Zoo, delighting guests of all ages with dazzling lights, 3D holiday animal displays, festive entertainment, family fun, and photos with Santa. Highlights included the Lakeside Lightshow, the Enchanted Tree, and Lights on the Lawn with giant LED trees and whimsical snow machines, plus live performances and meet-and-greets at the Holiday Performance Pavilion. Guests enjoyed twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and larger-than-life animal displays, creating memorable holiday experiences for the whole family.

happenings

care, education, and conservation efforts. As a signature young philanthropy event, Kids Zoo Ball inspires the next generation to give back and champion wildlife. Frankie Buttacavoli was crowned Queen of the Jungle, Kolt Sigman was named King, and Chair Dani Guido helped lead a meaningful and impactful evening.

43rd Annual Zoobilation Ball

The 43rd Annual Zoobilation Ball, Congo Nights, presented by The Will Smith Foundation, delivered an unforgettable evening at San Antonio Zoo. Chaired by Jamie and Travis Kowalski, the spectacular event raised more than $2.2 million in support of the zoo’s mission to

L.E.A.P. for wildlife—advancing animal care, conservation, and education. A heartfelt thank you to the generous supporters, dedicated volunteers, partners, and Zoo Crew who made this magical night possible. Scan the QR code to check out the recap video from Zoo Ball Congo nights!

happenings

coral lab opening in 2026 between Chango’s Café and the Aquarium. Featuring Texas and tropical coral in eye‑level tanks, the lab offers guests an up-close look at these fragile ecosystems. In partnership with NOAA, the zoo will cultivate coral for reintroduction back to wild coral reefs and host free educational talks about its vital role in ocean health. The lab reflects the zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and inspiring action to protect wildlife.

NEW Methodist HEALTH WALK

San Antonio Zoo and Methodist Healthcare launched the Methodist Health Walk, a scenic mile-long route through the zoo that promotes wellness, mindfulness, and family fun. Guests can use a special passport featuring animals and health tips, complete the walk, and redeem a prize at Valerie Guenther Mariposa Market or Jambo Market. The walk is open to all zoo guests as a fun,

educATION

They trained in field research—monitoring wildlife, habitats, and vegetation—and experienced rainforest biodiversity firsthand, from howler monkeys to sea turtle

Zoo Wins Education award for Game Night at the Zoo

San Antonio Zoo won the Innovation Award for Game Night at the Zoo: Dungeons & Dragons, where guests rolled dice in immersive, zoo-themed adventures led by the zoo’s Dungeon Masters, complete with themed battlesnacks and pre-generated characters.

Record-breaking School field trips

total students

123,660 68% From title 1 schools

$182,515.85

raised for title 1 schools

Zoo Camp

total campers

1,743

EDUCATION

Will Smith Zoo School provided nature-based learning training in Maui, welcoming educators from across the country as well as an international delegation from a school in Scotland.

Will Smith Zoo School unveiled the "wormhole," a new interactive art climbing structure in Wilderness. This structure was funded by donations of WSZS parents and was designed by an Austin artist and professor, Brent Baggett.

WILL SMITH ZOO SCHOOL EXPANDS INTO SEGUIN, TEXAS

Seguin ISD approved a groundbreaking public-private partnership with San Antonio Zoo’s nationally recognized Will Smith Zoo School, marking the first collaboration of its kind in Texas between a school district and a nature-based preschool. Launched in August at the Irma Lewis Outdoor Learning Center, the pilot program expanded tuition-free pre-kindergarten opportunities, transforming outdoor spaces into immersive classrooms where play, conservation, and curiosity drive learning.

New WSZS Kindergarten Program

Will Smith Zoo School launched a new kindergarten program operated by San Antonio Zoo. The expansion builds on the school’s inquiry-based, outdoor-focused curriculum and continues its commitment as the nation’s largest nature-based preschool licensed by the State of Texas and accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

New Wormhole Sculpture

Donors | 2025

$500,000 - $999,999

Kronkosky Charitable Foundation

The Carroll & Marguerite Wheeler Foundation H-E-B

$100,000 - $499,999

Cynthia Grossman

Larry and Charlene Clark

Robert S. and Amy Brewer

Luke and Estee Kellogg

The Greehey Family Foundation

The Elma Dill Russell Spencer Foundation

Charles and Lisa Harthan

Texas Capital Bank

Ken L. and Denise Schlaudt

$50,000 - $99,999

Charles and Stacy Clines

Winkler Family Foundation

The Charles Butt Foundation

The Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation

Thomas and Maryanne Guido

James and Kelly S. Daniell

$15,000 - $49,999

Elsa and Bruce Grossman Family

The Watermark Group

The Greg Kowalski Family Susan Naylor

Martha Seeligson

Lynn E. and Caroline Laurence

The Tracy Avery Foundation

Estela Hollin-Avery

Donald G. Elliott and Denise L. Elliott

Ralston Family Foundation

Mark and Mary R. Barrett

The Adam R. Scripps Foundation Circle Bar Foundation

William (Billy) and Cheryl Freed

The Kate Marmion Charitable Foundation

John R. and Greli N. Less Charitable Trust

Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundation

Texas A&M University - San Antonio

The Estate of Lillian Puckett

The Estate of David Torres

Leslie Negley

Geraldine G. Lawson Charitable Trust

Capital Group Companies Charitable Foundation

The Rugeley Ferguson Foundation

Carolina and AJ Lewis IV

Travis and Jamie Kowalski

City Vet & The Anderson Family

Carol Lee Jones Educational and Cultural Fund of the SAAF

KSL Family Foundation

Edwin (Eli) J. and Blanca Whitney

John K. Miller

Charity Benefits Unlimited LLC

Roxanne and Gretchen Rix

Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry

John and Libby Williams

Johnson Charitable Fund

JJ Real Co Inc.

Frost Bank

Support For Life

The M.R.S Foundation

The Roger L. and Laura D. Zeller Charitable Foundation

The Harvey E. Najim Charitable Foundation

Philip and Elizabeth H. Jacobs

Patrick and Kathleen Kennedy

The Bitterroot Mile Club

Sewell Automotive Companies

Neal Wagner and Deborah L. Callanan

Christopher and Adrianna Grossman

Clay and Cathy Killinger

Robert N. Young, MD, Plastic Surgery Center

DOCUmation

Vaughn Vasconcellos and Suzanne D. Martin

Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust

Howard Energy Partners

Biglari Foundation

Warriors Heart

Bruce Walker

Anonymous

Rollins and Heather Rubsamen

Jordan Booth

80/20 Foundation

Valero Energy Corporation/Foundation

Guido Construction Company, Inc.

Stella C. Herff Charitable Trust

Bracewell, LLP

Bernard and Kathy L. Swift

Gregory and Heather Parkhurst

Robert and Kristin Tips

Kris and LeAnn Trejo

Genevieve Niederberger Trust

Graham Weston and Valerie Collins

Napoleon Puente-Cuellar

Bank of Texas

John and Erica Sun

Brandon and Triana Grossman

Brian and Larisa Colton

Tim and Karen Hixon Foundation

Wesley Fleming

Carol Severyn

Michael J. and Mary Pat Bolner

Methodist Children's Hospital

Donors | 2025

Michael and Beth B. Harper

Patrick J. Perron

The Abati Family

Thomas and Patsy Inglet

Tyler and Amy Burkett

Feliciano & Virginia Vasquez Family

C.H. Guenther & Son

Muriel F. Siebert Foundation

Mary Hobbs Griffith Foundation

$5,000 - $9,999

Malitz Construction, Inc.

Labatt Foundation

Truist

Presidio Concrete

Jeremy and Elizabeth Forster

Elizabeth D. Conklyn

Fern Lee (Missy) Finck

Anonymous

John and Kayla Skelton

Laddie and Camille L. Denton

Ancira Auto Group

Noel and Sabrina Scott

Justin A. and Lynzee Hill

Frank and Jill Ruttenberg

Gina Langley

James and Rhonda Hollerbach

Pellegrino & Associates

Robert and Julie Miggins

Mary Quandt

Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc.

PNC Bank

Enzo T. Pellegrino

HIVE Digital Technologies LTD - Frank Holmes

Nathalie and Gladys Dalkowitz Charitable Trust

University of Oklahoma

Glyn Hack

Annita Hereford-Crump

Vanessa Oxley

Cameron Redding

Carmen Gamez

Mary Cole

Andrew and Faryl Greller

Brian and Hannah Steward

Gregg and Veronica Potter

Jeanmarie M. Tulipane

Jim and Kelly Satel

John L. Nau III

Johnny and Ruthie Russell

Greater San Antonio Emergency Physicians
The Harris K. & Lois G. Oppenheimer Foundation

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