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.
Tim Morrow President & CEO
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
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