Full Conference Schedule

California Association of Zoos and Aquariums (Executive Session 9:30 am - 10:00 am)

Honors and Awards Committee - Exhibit Hall Roundtable

Frontiers in One Health: Aging, Microbiomes, and Marine Conservation

Speaker(s):

Dr. Tarah Hadley, Senior Director of Veterinary Care, San Antonio Zoological Society

Applying Healthy Aging Principles to Mitigate Functional Decline in a Geriatric Lion Christina Batek, Clinical Veterinarian, Oregon Zoo

Decoding Dysbiosis: Microbiome Sequencing Reveals Pathological Signatures in a Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris) with Chronic Gastroenteropathy Nicole Ormaza, Veterinarian

Management of Shigella flexneri in a Primate Collection: From Acute Outbreak to Long-Term Carriers Dr. Carol Bradford, Veterinarian, Albuquerque Biological Park

Old Girls, New Data: A Longitudinal Study of Geriatric Gorillas in Managed Care William Allen, Research Associate, Zoo Atlanta

Past and Present: The Shedd Aquarium Microbiome Project and Molecular Ecology Lab Frank Oliaro, Laboratory Manager, John G. Shedd Aquarium

Pioneering Collaboration in Elasmobranch Reproductive Technologies: An International Semen Exchange Collaboration for Science and Conservation Dr. Alfonso Lopez, Senior Director, Marine Mammal Care & Veterinary Care, Singapore Oceanarium

Topics that Roar: Species Specific Advancements in Training & Care

Speaker(s):

Timothy Van Loan, Animal Care Curator, Animal Behavior and Well Being, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Evaluation of Enrichment that Encourages an Increased Activity Budget for Raptors Stanley Lestrud, PSM in Zoo, Shelter, and Aquarium Management, Colorado State University

No Bad Days in Training: An Evaluation of the Relationship Between Training and Behavior of a Malayan tiger (Panthera tigris jacksoni) Alex Riley, Animal Excellence Research Coordinator, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Social Interactions and Sequential Behavior in Mixed-Species Primate Groups at the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens Katelyn Deaton, Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Animal Behavior Graduate Research Fellow, University of North Florida & Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Solving the Hunting Problem: Exploring Alternative Feeding Tactics for the African Lions at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Apoorva Singh, Student: Zoo & Aquarium Management, Colorado State University

Spotting Temperaments: Investigating the Impacts of Differential Rearing on the Temperaments of Cheetahs Hannah Strahl, Zoo, Aquarium, Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

The Fostering and Training of an Asian Wild Horse Foal Gail Roubinek, Lead Animal Care Specialist, Minnesota Zoo

Wingin’ It Through Change: Tracking Eagle Habitat Occupancy Across Time Dr. Lindsay Mahovetz-Myers, Curator of Wellbeing and Science, Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Disaster and Emergency Preparedness and Response for Captive Wildlife and Exotic Animal Facilities

Speaker(s):

Dr. Hayley Dieckmann, UC Davis Project Manager, Veterinarian, UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Extension

Resilience Under Pressure: Managing a Large-Scale Power Outage at Oceanário de Lisboa Dr. Miguel Oliveira, Director of Engineering, Operations and Quality Assurance, Oceanário de Lisboa S.A

Aquatic Rescue Under Pressure: Transport, Intake, and Quarantine Following a Facility Closure Christoph Noetzli, Curator of Aquariums, Marine Mammals and LSS, Minnesota Zoological Garden

Comprehensive Risk Assessment for Captive Wildlife and Exotic Animal Facilities Dr. Hayley Dieckmann, UC Davis Project Manager, Veterinarian, UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Extension

Emergency and All Hazards Planning for Captive Wildlife and Exotic Animal Facilities, with Emphasis on Rural Locations + How to Host a Successful Emergency Tabletop Exercise for a Rural Animal Facility and include Outside Agencies Dr. Hayley Dieckmann, UC Davis Project Manager, Veterinarian, UC Davis Veterinary Medicine Extension

Honolulu Zoo’s Multiagency Shooting Team Protocol Response for Category 1 Code Red Dangerous Animal Escape Laura Debnar, General Curator, Conservation Chair, Honolulu Zoo

Accreditation Hearings (Executive Session)

Accreditation Hearings (Executive Session)

Accreditation Hearings (Executive Session)

Registration Open

Registration Open

Registration Open

Registration Open

Registration Open

Icebreaker at Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) - Presented by Event Network

Zoo Day at Oregon Zoo

Light Continental Breakfast

Light Continental Breakfast

Light Continental Breakfast

Opening General Session

General Session

Honors and Awards Lunch

Exhibit Hall Grand Opening

Exhibit Hall Open

Exhibit Hall Open

Refreshment Break

Refreshment Break

Poster Reception

Climate Toolkit: Activating Institutions and Their Visitors to Advance Climate Action Dr. Jennifer Torpie, VP of Education & Community Engagement, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium Andrew Lampl, Climate Toolkit Manager, Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden

"Undesirable" Consequences: How Labels Shape Animal Welfare Decisions Catherine Razal, Animal Excellence Scientist, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

A Case for Hands-on Intelligence: Research-Through-Making a 15+ Year Look at an Interdisciplinary Education Initiative Advancing Animal Welfare Through Design Cailigh MacDonald, Toys for Animals Research Director, Handshouse Studios

A Comparison of Novel Object Tests and Staff Ratings To Identify Individual Differences in Risk-Taking Among Human-Managed Northwestern Gray Wolves (Canis lupus occidentalis) Yasmeen Ghavamian, Animal Science / Animal Biology, University of California - Davis

A Decade of Data: Volunteer Strategy Metrics Across AZA Institutions Jennifer Conley, Volunteer and Intern Manager, John Ball Zoo

A Training Approach For Desensitization and Free-Flight Training of an Ambassador Red-Tailed Hawk Kaylee Doughty, Student, Friends University

Aggression as Assessment: Reproductive Monitoring by a Male Black-Handed Spider Monkey Jacqueline Sweeney, Student, Fairfield University

All Fed Up: Exploring Alternative Visitor-Animal Interaction Methods To Reduce Overfeeding in Domestic Goats (Capra hircus) Dr. Allison Bailey, City Zoos Research Manager, Wildlife Conservation Society

All in a Day’s Work: Stress and Recovery in Zoo Ambassador Species Keira Hagerty, Student, Fairfield University

Ambassador Animal Acqusition & Management Anna Tobin, Ambassador Animal Program Director, New Mexico Wildlife Center

An Aquarium Does That? Helping to Address Local Food Insecurity with Sustainable Seafood Dr. Sara McDonald, Vice President of Conservation, South Carolina Aquarium

Analytical Validation of Enzyme Immunoassays Measuring Salivary Insulin and Adiponectin in Zoo-Housed Orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) Laura Angley, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Aquarium Swim & Dive Experiences: A Case Study For Why To Do Them Richard Van Duyne, Guest Services Associate, The Florida Aquarium

Assessing Enclosure Residence Time: Is Your Management Helping Fish Live Longer and Thrive? Megan Brown, Director of Population Management Strategy, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Automated Radio Telemetry System (ARTS): A New Tool for Monitoring Reintroduction Success of Small-bodied Terrestrial Animals Dr. Rory Telemeco, Director of Conservation Science, Fresno Chaffee Zoo

AZA Species Welfare Indicator Guides Seoyun Yoo, Program Assistant, Animal Wellbeing, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Behavior Video Sharing: Advancing Observer Training to Improve Welfare Monitoring Dr. Grace Fuller, Senior Director of Animal Welfare and Research, Detroit Zoo

Behavioral Activity and Habitat Use of Ball Pythons (Python regius) at the Oregon Zoo Angelea McPartlin, PhD Student, Oregon Zoo

Beyond the Scoreboard: Turning Athletic Grit into Workplace Success Heidi Schultz, Student, Friends University

Beyond Volunteering: Creative Engagement and Community Partnerships in Adult Zoo Programming Dr. Sharon Spencer, Adult Education Specialist, Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Brains Beneath the Waves: Learning and Memory in a Bluntnose Stingray Dr. Lindsay Mahovetz-Myers, Curator of Wellbeing and Science, Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Bridging Ex Situ and In Situ Conservation: Reintroducing Grauer’s Gorillas Through AZA–In Situ Collaboration Dr. Katie Fawcett, Executive and Science Director, Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center

Building the Future of Zoos: How Teen Mentorship Strengthens Careers, Communities, and Conservation Jaiden Lansdowne-Vaughn, Zoo Science, Friends University

Building Zoo-College Partnerships: A Bellevue College-Woodland Park Zoo Model for Student Engagement and Public Communication Dr. Sarah Ghasedi, Assistant Professor of English, Bellevue College

Citizen Science as an Educational and Animal Behavior Monitoring Tool Cassidy Hawkins, PhD Student, North Carolina State University

Closing the Circle: A Bold New Model to Scale Conservation Impact by Uniting Wild and Zoo Conservation for Genetic Survival Ravi Corea, President, Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society

Connecting Community and Conservation: A Local Framework for Action at Henry Vilas Zoo Ilana Vargas, Conservation Education Coordinator, Henry Vilas Zoo

Conservation Across Zoos, Aquariums, and Beyond: The Power of Being a Bridge and Glue David Hudson, President/CEO, Remote Ecologist

Conservation that Works: Integrating Human Behavior into Zoo-based Conservation Strategies Robert Arango Lopez, Research & Conservation Manager, Cali Zoological Foundation

Contingency Planning for Veterinary Relief Professionals in Zoos and Aquariums Dr. Josephine Rose, Clinical Veterinarian (VHE), Wildlife Aquatic and Zoo Relief Network

Creating A Connection: Designing Zoological Exhibits to Maximize Visitor Connection and Animal Wellbeing Sarah Hayes, Student, UNC Greensboro

Creating Quality Assessments for Informal Education Programs Shanna Hillard, Evaluation and Interpretive Collections Coordinator, Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Designing Interactive Enrichment that Supports Animal Choice and Control: Lessons from Bear and Fox Systems Rebecca Kleinberger, Associate Professor, INTERACT Animal Lab, Northeastern University

Disrupting The Demand: How to Message About Wildlife Trafficking With A Reluctant Audience Hunter Balog, Conservation Project Manager, Riverbanks Zoo Allysia Hunter, Conservation Engagement Manager, Riverbanks Zoo

Does Increasing Physical Space in a Giraffe Feeding Experience Increase Guest Stay Time and Giraffe Wellbeing? Sydney Randall, Student: Zoo & Aquarium Management, Colorado State University

Early Warning System as a Way To Mitigate Human Wildlife Conflict in Namibian Farmlands Aryan Patel, Natural Sciences, Colorado State University

Effects of Programming and Increased Vertical Space Upon Barrier-Directed Behaviors in an Ambassador Ball Python (Python regius) Christopher Jackson, Graduate Research Associate, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Efficacy of MGA Implant Contraception in a Dominant Golden Lion Tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia) Female and Its Effect on Hormonal Cycling of a Subordinate Female in the Group Monica McDonald, RMC Program Scientist, Saint Louis Zoo

Elevating Meaningful Learning Outcomes for Marginalized Communities Jedda Foreman, Associate Director, Lawrence Hall of Science, Lawerence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley

Empathy Valentines for Non-mammal Residents Jennifer Olson, Director of Guest and Community Engagement, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences

Epigenomics as a Tool for Assessing Well-Being in Zoo-Housed Polar Bears Elizabeth Patterson, MSc Student, University of Manitoba

Equitable Multi-dimensional Assessment Measures related to Learning in Outdoor Spaces Dr. Amy Cox-Petersen, Professor, California State University - Fullerton

Evaluating Effects of Multi-Day Enrichment Events for Tropical Ambassador Animals Trey Julian, PSM: Zoo, Aquarium & Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Evaluating Primate Environmental Enrichment for Engagement at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Cameron O'Connor, Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Evidence of Long-Term Kin Recognition in the Andean Bear (Tremarctos ornatus): A Case Study of a Mother-Daughter Reintroduction Kiera Stevenson, Student, Fairfield University

From Classroom to Habitat: Structuring Student-Driven Projects for Real Zoo Deployment Rebecca Kleinberger, Associate Professor, INTERACT Animal Lab, Northeastern University Sarah Woodruff, Animal Wellbeing Advisor, Zoo New England

From Crisis Messaging to Conservation Inspiration: Examining Display Practices Across Zoos and Natural History Museums Joshua Kulak, Biological Foundations of Behavior: Animal Behavior, Franklin & Marshall College

From Egg to Release: Seoul Zoo’s Conservation Program for the Endangered Black-faced Spoonbill Yeo Yong-gu, Director, Seoul Zoo

From Events to Ecosystems: A New Model for Community Celebrations Neetha Kumar, Connections Program Coordinator, Seattle Aquarium

From Gobi to Zoo: Connecting U.S. Audiences to Wild Camel Conservation Through Field-Based Education Dr. Kah-Wai Lin, Director, Wild Camel Protection Foundation USA

From Idea to Habitat: Designing Enrichment Through an Engineering Lens Leif Erickson, Managing Principal, Equilibrium Engineers LLC

From Mangroves to Menus: How Food Service Turns Conservation into Guest Action Matthew Beaudin, Chef & Global Sustainability Advocate, Seafood Watch Blue Ribbon Task Force

From MOZAICS to Movement: Advancing Neurodiversity-Affirming Zoos & Aquariums Insights from Toward a Neurodiversity-Affirming Future in Informal STEM Education Jennifer McLeod, Director of Education, Santa Barbara Zoo

From Opportunistic Research to Strategic Science: Governance Models for Zoo-based Research in Megadiverse Contexts Robert Arango Lopez, Research & Conservation Manager, Cali Zoological Foundation

From Template to Submission: A Practical Guide to Developing AZA Species Welfare Indicator Guides Dr. Holly Molinaro, Director, Animal Wellbeing Solutions, Animal Wellbeing Solutions

From Venue to Revenue Engine: A Practical Framework for Event-Driven Revenue in Aquariums Ioana Vladescu, Director of Special Events, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography UC San Diego

Gastrointestinal Pathology in Zoo Housed Colobus Monkeys: A Twenty-year Retrospective Analysis Maura Plocek, Graduate Research Assistant, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Glucocorticoid Production by Barn Owls (Tyto alba) and Harris’s Hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus) Serving as Ambassador Animals Corinne Kozlowski, Endocrinologist, Saint Louis Zoo

Going with the Flow: A Candidate Locomotor Play Behavior in Captive Juvenile Diamondback Terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) Grace Weyman-Heller, Graduate Research Assistant, Georgia State University

How can Modern Wildlife Conservation Strategies and Efforts be Evaluated Through a Case Study? A Study of the North American Beaver (Castor canadensis) Alex Burwash, Student, Dallas Community School

How to Build Interpretive Capacity: A Multilevel Approach to Creating and Maximizing Interpretive Staff and Programs Carly Cummings, Supervisor of Interpretive Programs, Maritime Aquarium

Illegally Trafficked Margarita Capuchins in Venezuelan Zoos: The Importance of Molecular Identification Dr. Kathryn Rodriguez-Clark, Population Ecologist, Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Infant Developmental Variation Between the Sexes of the Milne-Edwards Sifaka (Propithecus edwarsi) Sydney Jacobs, Zoo, Aquarium, and Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Interactive Enrichment: Designing for Animal Choice and Engagement Rebecca Kleinberger, Associate Professor, INTERACT Animal Lab, Northeastern University

Investigating the Drivers of Cognitive Evolution in the Genus Panthera Elise Hagman, Zookeeper Apprentice

Is Extended Lactation Nutritionally Important for the Weaning of Wild Toque Macaques, Macaca sinica? Evidence From Milk Composition Lalith Jayawickrama, Professor, University of Dubuque

Learning Among the Butterflies: Evaluating the Engagement of Educational Resources at Butterfly Pavilion Collin Styers, Student: Zoo & Aquarium Management, Colorado State University

Let the Light In: Does Exposure to a Full Natural Light Cycle Produce Significant Behavioral Change in Reticulated Giraffe in a Managed Care Setting Bri Gomez, Professional Science Master's student in Zoo, Aquarium, & Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Let Them Roar: Co-Creating Conservation Advocacy Efforts with Youth and You Ariel Segura, Coordinator, Zoo Apprenticeship Program, Oregon Zoo

Leveraging Community Science To Effect Policy Change and Empower Conservation Action in South Carolina Linda Rowe, Lead Coordinator of Conservation, South Carolina Aquarium

Leveraging Marketing to Promote Conservation Moira Tamayo, Sr. Marketing Manager & Communications Advisor, Seattle Aquarium Society

Little Talks: Conversation Dynamics in Capuchin Positive Reinforcement Training Meredith Bashaw, Professor of Psychology, Franklin & Marshall College

Lobbying and Advocacy by Charities under US Federal Tax Law Marla Conley, Founding Partner, Conley Law Group LLC

Managing a Staff Training and Certification Program – Ensuring Animal Care Excellence Erin Dougher, AW and BT Manager, Albuquerque Biological Park

Math in Motion: Transforming Youth Perceptions through STEM at the Dallas Zoo Amanda Stephens-Roberts, Supervisor, Camps and Teen Programs

Measuring Combined Shade and Evaporative Cooling Performance in a Hot Desert Zoo Peter Price, PhD Candidate, Arizona State University

Mission Aligned and Unified: Cross-Departmental Collaborations To Elevate Guest Experience and Streamline Operations Shelley Rank, Research and Evaluation Manager, Wildlife Conservation Society Christopher Johnson, Assistant Director, Live Interpretation, Bronx Zoo Kathryn Bennett, Marine Mammal Trainer, New York Aquarium

Mobile Museums: The Role of Collections in Informal Education Hayley Prescott, Student: Zoo & Aquarium Management, Colorado State University

Monitoring the Microbial Composition of an Abscess in a Wild Stranded California Sea Lion (Zalophus californianus) Utilizing Next Generation Sequencing Jenna Archambeau, Field Application Specialist, NGS, MiDOG Animal Diagnostics

More Than Cute: Evaluating Conservation Communication in Aquarium Birth Announcements Micaiala Hamner, Graduate Student, The University of Central Florida

Naturalistic or Not: Automated Investigation of Enrichment Aesthetic’s Impact on Engagement Dylan Baldridge, Animal Wellbeing and Enrichment Technician, Memphis Zoo

NaturEd at San Antonio Zoo: Practical Frameworks for Operating Preschools at Zoos and Aquariums Dr. Amanda McMickle, VP of Education, San Antonio Zoological Society

Neurodivergent Inclusion Across Informal Stem Learning Organizations: Initial Insights & Implications Dr. Victoria Sellers, Researcher, Oregon State University STEM Research Center

Off-the-Clock Enrichment: Evaluating the Effects of Automatic Grain Feeders on Giraffe Behavior Overnight Calle Uerling, PSM - Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Parent-Child Conversation and Learning at the Zoo Anna Sofia Hege, Experimental Psychology M.S., Rochester Institute of Technology

Participants’ Perceptions, Behaviors, and Want to Engage in Conservation After Zoo Visit Ashley Samura, Senior Program Manager, School & Community Programs, Oakland Zoo

Partnering with Advanced Learners to Inspire Future Conservation Leaders Sean Depaola, Student, Friends University

Prey on Display: Effects of Carcass Type and Presentation Method on Behavioral Diversity of African Painted Dogs (Lycaon pictus) Izabella Ferjiani, PSM: Zoo, Aquarium & Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Recovering the Origins of Modern Zoo Conservation: Archival Research on the Wagner Legacy and Professional Standards Gabrielle English, Historian/Conservation, Arizona State University

Rehabilitation Raptor Enrichment at Rocky Mountain Raptor Program Phoebe Ramirez, Grad Student, Colorado State University

Reimagining DEAI Learning in Conservation: The Impact of Long-Form Cohort Models on Antiracist Leadership Development Alexander Jones, Senior Strategist of Accessibility & Inclusion, Woodland Park Zoo

Reimagining Zoo Accessibility: An Interdisciplinary Model for Inclusive Visitor Experience Dr. Kaitlyn Cremer, Clinical Associate Professor and Director of Doctoral Capstone, Baylor University

Renovation of the Southern Ocean Penguin Habitat at the Oceanário de Lisboa Dr. Miguel Oliveira, Director of Engineering, Operations and Quality Assurance, Oceanário de Lisboa S.A

Responding to Animal Loss by Disease - Addressing Grief and Implementing Effective Biosecurity Anna Tobin, Ambassador Animal Program Director, New Mexico Wildlife Center

Same Species, Different Needs: Tailored Enrichment for Contrasting Orangutan Personalities Margaret Haigney, Graduate Student, Colorado State University

Seasonal Reversal of Diurnal/Nocturnal Activity in a Captive Giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla): An Observational Finding and Multi-Institutional Call for Collaboration Dr. Kaylin Tennant, Conservation and Science Research Fellow, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Show Us Your Mussels Challenge Gina Goralski, Public Programming Specialist, Minnesota Zoological Garden

Spread Wings & Dead Things: Educating with Specimens Kit Fleming Ellsworth, Grad Student, University of Washington - Museology

Staying Afloat in the SEA of Change: Supporting and Engaging Volunteers Through Institutional Transitions Claire Messmer, Volunteer and Intern Manager, Mote Marine Laboratory

The Effects of Novel Enrichment on Zoo Callitrichid Primates Joseph Moniz, Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

The Impact of Tourist Behaviors on Large Carnivores in the Samburu National Reserve Asha Fry, Student: Zoo & Aquarium Management, Colorado State University

The Making of a Predator: Jaguar Cub Development Uncovered Alexis Hart, Applied Animal Wellbeing Officer, Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens

The Power of Motion: Dynamic Water as a Tool for Enrichment and Realism Lewis Wemple, Product Manager - Waves, Aquatic Development Group

Turning Myths Into Learning: How Zoos and Aquariums Can Combat Misinformation Andrew Evans, student, Friends University

Turtle Talks: Impacts of Animal Ambassador Programming on Guest Empathy and Conservation Intention Jonah Peckham, North Carolina State University

Understanding Impacts of Anticipated (and Unanticipated) Habitat Design Elements on Guest Experience Dr. Rachel Dickler-Mann, Community Research and Evaluation Manager, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Unpacking the Pack: Social Behavior and Mortality in Captive African Painted Dogs Francesca Whitehead, Animal Behavior, University of California - Davis

Validation of Commercially Available Flow Cytometry Antibodies for Identification of Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus) Blood Cells Dr. Jennifer Johns, Associate Professor, Oregon State University

Valuing ‘Vermin’: Enrichment Strategies for Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis) and Virginia Opossums (Didelphis virginiana) in Managed Care Rebekah Perry, PSM Zoo, Aquarium, Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

When Enrichment Benefits—and When It Costs: Behavioral Resilience vs. Cognitive Performance Under Climate Stress Kimberly Lapidario, Graduate Student, Arizona State University

When Is It Commercial? Navigating Endangered Species Transfers and Breeding Loans Aislinn Baltas, Regulatory Affairs Coordinator, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Zines as Embedded Evaluation Tools for Assessing Youth Engagement and Learning Outcomes Theo Bamberger, Evaluation Strategist, Woodland Park Zoo

Zoo Science and the Visitor Experience: Communicating Conservation and Animal Welfare Research Monte Dunham, Landscape Designer, Zoo Design, The University of Oklahoma

ZooMu: Linking Living and Preserved Collections for the Advancement of Animal Care, Science, and Conservation Dr. Alexander Shepack, Researcher, ZooMu RCN Dr. John Griffioen, Assistant Director of Animal Programs & Conservation, Fort Worth Zoo Dr. Sinlan Poo, Curator of Research, Memphis Zoo Kyle Lundby, Principal, Global Aspect Human Capital Advisors

Zoos & Aquariums as Leaders on Collaborating with Wildlife in Park Gateways Julie Randall, President, Wildlife Restoration Foundation

Party On The Floor Reception

Committee Chairs Meeting

Directors’ Meeting (Open to Executive Directors of Accredited Institutions, Related Facilities, and Pathway Towards Membership Participants Only)

AZA Board of Directors

Nominating Committee (Executive Session)

Advancing Conservation through Empathy for Wildlife (ACE for Wildlife ®) Network

Centering People in the Planning - Exhibit Hall Roundtable

Marine Mammal TAG

Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers (CELC)

Conservation Education Committee

The Evening Buzz

Speaker(s):

Timothy Van Loan, Animal Care Curator, Animal Behavior and Well Being, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

2025 Volunteer & Intern Benchmarking Data Drop Jennifer Conley, Volunteer and Intern Manager, John Ball Zoo

Citizen Science as an Educational and Animal Behavior Monitoring Tool Cassidy Hawkins, PhD Student, North Carolina State University

Evaluating the Effects of Increased Guest Feeding Stations on Giraffe Behavior Kendra Kuehn, Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Exploring Pathways to Impact at Scotland’s Zoos & Botanic Gardens Jack Baker, PhD Student, University of Edinburgh, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh & Royal Zoological Society of Scotland

Lights, Camera, Culture: An Unconventional Approach to Building Staff Engagement Johanna Blasi, Director of Interpretation and Engagement, New England Aquarium

Social Safari - Matchmaking at the Zoo Jessica Herboth, Conservation Education Curator, Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden

Sustainable Stingless Beekeeping in the Amazon: Indigenous Leadership in Pollinator Conservation Dr. Francisco Garcia Bulle Bueno, Director of Research and Conservation, Butterfly Pavilion

Swimming the Swim: Aligning Aquarium Collection Planning with Sustainability, Ethical Acquisition, and Animal Wellbeing Dr. Brittany Fischer, Animal Wellbeing Consultant, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Valuing ‘Vermin’: Enrichment Strategies for Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis) and Virginia Opossums (Didelphis virginiana) in Managed Care Rebekah Perry, PSM Zoo, Aquarium, Animal Shelter Management, Colorado State University

Achieving Membership Growth Through a Connected Visitor Journey

Speaker(s):

Julia Russell, Director of Membership and Audience Strategy, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance Timmy Metzner, Senior Director, Business Development, Tessitura Network

Blowing up a Successful Membership Program Katie Krecklow, Director of Membership, Marketing and Communications, Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Closing the Gap Between Visit and Membership Ashley Cioppa, Director of Membership Programs, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Fast Track to Engagement: Quick Wins for Membership Programs in Zoos & Aquariums Tatiana Villate, Membership Advisor, Cuseum

The Member to Donor Pipeline: Midlevel Upgrade Invitations Sarah Scates, Director of Admission & Membership, Oakland Zoo

Advocacy Fundamentals: From Internal Alignment to External Momentum

Speaker(s):

Griffin Muli, Manager, Corporate and Legislative Strategy, South Carolina Aquarium

Advocacy 101: Getting Started in Advocacy Elaine Mah Best, Vice President of Community Relations, Santa Barbara Zoo

Strategic Planning: How to Create a Policy Action Plan Griffin Muli, Manager, Corporate and Legislative Strategy, South Carolina Aquarium

Organizational Advocacy: Building Frameworks of Accountability Brian Gill, Senior Director, Government Affairs and Policy, John G. Shedd Aquarium

Complexity to Clarity: Turning Policy into Engaging Action Anthony Gesualdi, Associate Vice President Conservation Policy, New England Aquarium

Advocacy Storytelling: Aligning Mission with Action Sean den Bok, Chief of Education and Engagement, Fresno Chaffee Zoo

AI Without the Hype: What Zoos and Aquariums Need to Know Now

Speaker(s):

Dan Dipiazzo, Chief Marketing + Experience Officer, Georgia Aquarium

AI Overview: What Are We Talking About When We Talk About AI? Luke Giffen, Business Systems Analyst, Oakland Zoo

Computer Vision Applications in Animal Management Dr. Samuel Eliades, Science Programs Specialist, Disney's Animals, Science, and Environment

Taming the Beast: Getting Your Organization AI-Ready Jerry Harris, VP, IT & Cybersecurity, Georgia Aquarium

Sustainable AI: How AI Is Positively and Negatively Impacting the Environment and How We Can Use It Responsibly Danielle DuMerer, Vice President, Technology & Information Security, John G. Shedd Aquarium

IRL vs. AI: Why Real Experiences Matter More in Today’s Increasingly Artificial World Dan Dipiazzo, Chief Marketing + Experience Officer, Georgia Aquarium

All In or Opt Out? Internal Frameworks for Navigating AZA SAFE Participation

Speaker(s):

Dr. Kristen Lukas, Director of Conservation and Science, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Developing a Framework: Integrating SAFE into the Indianapolis Zoo’s Commitment to Conservation Justin Birkhoff, Vertebrate Conservation Coordinator, Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc.

From Mission to Action: Greenville Zoo’s Strategy for Engaging in AZA SAFE Stephanie Bradley, Education Curator, Greenville Zoo

Which AZA SAFE Programs Are A Fit For Us?: A Criteria-Based Approach at the Saint Louis Zoo Dr. Elizabeth Kelley, Vice President, Conservation & Education, Saint Louis Zoo

Coordinating AZA SAFE Engagement Through Inventory, Review, and Reporting Georgia Eckett, Conservation Manager, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Beyond “Yes”: Clarifying Roles, Resources, and Engagement in SAFE Partnerships Dr. Kristen Lukas, Director of Conservation and Science, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Going From 0 to 10 in One Year Dr. Carlos Martínez Rivera, Director of Conservation, Akron Zoological Park

Start Small, Think SAFE Chad Fifer, President and CEO, Aquarium of Niagara

Animals, Art and Stewardship: A Shared Commitment to Conservation with Indigenous Tribes

Speaker(s):

Lauren Carroll-Bolger, Community Affairs Manager, Woodland Park Zoo

Panelists Farrah Paul, Director of Public Relations and Community Affairs, Woodland Park Zoo Patrick Owen, East Team Animal Care Manager, Woodland Park Zoo Aaron Jones, Director of Natural & Cultural Resources Department, The Tulalip Tribes of Washington Mike Sevigny, Wildlife Manger, The Tulalip Tribes of Washington

Centering Relationships in Zoo and Aquarium Partnerships with Indigenous Communities Cory Ulrich, Senior Manager, Indigenous Relations, Monterey Bay Aquarium

Honoring Indigenous Knowledge in Zoo and Aquarium Partnerships Dr. Sarah Thomas, Head of Conservation Avocacy and Engagement, Auckland Zoo

AZA 2033 Trends Report Is Shaping Strategic Plans

Speaker(s):

Dr. David Niebuhr, Chief Operating Officer, Virginia Living Museum

Panelists Debra Erickson, Executive Director, Atlantis, Paradise Island Rebecca Kleinhample, Executive Director CEO, Virginia Living Museum Anthony Rivera, COO, Brevard Zoo Dr. Jim Wharton, Chief Executive Officer, Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo

AZA Accreditation Unpacked: What You Need to Know

Speaker(s):

Jennifer DiNenna, Senior Vice President, Accreditation Programs, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Bang, Whoosh, Roooaarrrr! Ways Sound Affects Learners at Zoos and Aquariums

Speaker(s):

Dr. Joe Heimlich, Professor Emeritus, Center of Science and Industry (COSI)

Panelists Laura Weiss, Researcher, COSI's Center for Research and Evaluation Danielle Ross, Vice President of Conservation Education and Engagement, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Dr. Kelly Riedinger, Senior Researcher, Oregon State University Grayson Ponti, Executive Director, Zoos and Aquariums for a Neurodiverse Ecosystem Inc.

Beyond Animal Care: Discover Your Impact on Zoo and Aquarium Population Sustainability!

Speaker(s):

Megan Brown, Director of Population Management Strategy, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Beyond Interpretive Carts: Building a Well-Rounded Teen Program

Speaker(s):

Lianna Sanders, Project Manager, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

From Evaluation to Conservation Action Lianna Sanders, Project Manager, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Unlocking Teen Potential: Building a Scalable Model for Growing Teen Engagement and Impact in Zoos Tara Reynolds, Career and Technical Education Program Manager, Utah's Hogle Zoo

You Belong Here: Helping Youth See Themselves in Conservation Careers Kent Chapple, Manager, Teen & Adult Programs, Woodland Park Zoo

Beyond Job Titles: Advancing AZA’s 5th Promise Together

Speaker(s):

Ashley McCarthy, Director of Dive Operations, Shedd Aquarium

Panelists Dr. Michael Murray, Director of Veterinary Services, Monterey Bay Aquarium Auriana Donaldson, Conservation Manager, Zoological Society of Milwaukee Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman, President & CEO, Philadelphia Zoo Barbara Bailey, Vice President of Animal Care, New England Aquarium Natali Rodgers, Director of Learning and Evaluation, Tennessee Aquarium Chris Corpus, Sr. Director of Conservation & Community Impact, Dallas Zoo Rachel Stein, Director of Animal Husbandry, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Beyond Passion: Rethinking Retention in Zoo and Aquarium Animal Care and Health Professions

Speaker(s):

Dr. Lauren Howard, Zoo and Conservation Liaison, Peel Therapeutics, Inc.

Taking the Pulse: Wellbeing and Retention in Zoo Animal Health Professionals Dr. John Griffioen, Assistant Director of Animal Programs & Conservation, Fort Worth Zoo

Panelists Luis Padilla, President & CEO, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium David Walsh, President & Chief Advisor, Canopy Strategic Partners David Ruhl, Executive Vice President, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Jennie Janssen, President and Managing Director, Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science J. Becky Cleveland, Career and Life Coach, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Beyond the Zoo Gates: The Role of Zoos in Ethical Wildlife Tourism

Speaker(s):

Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer, United Parks & Resorts

Panelists Dr. Debborah Luke, Senior VP of Conservation, The Florida Aquarium Dr. Grey Stafford, Host, Zoo Logic Podcast Dr. Erin Meyer, Chief Program Officer, American Humane Tim Morrow, President & CEO, San Antonio Zoological Society

Beyond the Zoo Visit: Building Lifelong Naturalists

Speaker(s):

Kaity Calmes, Naturalist, Oregon Zoo

Panelists Valeria Hernandez, Teen Programs Coordinator, Houston Zoo, Inc. Sara Lesser, Education Supervisor, Aquarium of the Pacific Sara Pelleteri, Assoc Curator STEM Education, High Desert Museum Jon Nelson, Curator of Wildlife, High Desert Museum Stephanie Soto, Formal Learning Experiences Supervisor, Tennessee Aquarium

Beyond Welcome: Practical Inclusion Models for Zoo and Aquarium Camps

Speaker(s):

Angela Barber, Senior Director of Conservation Learning & Connection, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Grassroots Inclusion through Consulting Partnerships Elizabeth Neal, Camps & Community Programs Manager, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

From Seasonal Support to Institutional Access Allison Price, Sr. Director, Learning and Guest Engagement, Lincoln Park Zoo

Building Inclusive Camps Through Coordination and Capacity Building Angela Barber, Senior Director of Conservation Learning & Connection, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Boiling Point: Conversations That Can’t Wait

Speaker(s):

Jasmine Williams, Community Collaboration Manager, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park Sathu Alagappan, DEIAB and Community Engagement, Columbus Zoo Conservation Parks

Panelists Rubai Aurora, Manager, Government & Community Partnerships, Woodland Park Zoo BJ Allen, Vice President, People & Culture, Oakland Zoo Dr. Tarah Hadley, Senior Director of Veterinary Care, San Antonio Zoological Society Kelly Reina, Manager of Early Childhood Education Programs, Brookfield Zoo Chicago Dr. Ryan Nobles, Director, Strategy & Planning, Georgia Aquarium, Inc. Christianne McGee, Deputy Director & CFMO, North Carolina Zoo Dr. Wei Ying Wong, President & CEO, Alaska SeaLife Center Domini Montgomery, Director, Safety & Risk Management, Saint Louis Zoo Nikki Stoudt, Manager of Marketing and Communications, Museum of Life and Science

Breaking the Mold: Population Management Strategies for Group Managed Species

Speaker(s):

Eva Fielder, Coordinator, Aquatic Populations, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Terrestrial Invertebrate TAG Erin Sullivan, Curator, Woodland Park Zoo

Ungulate TAGs Dan Beetem, Director of Animal Management, the Wilds

Anseriformes TAG Joanna Klass, Animal Care Manager, West Team, Woodland Park Zoo

Larval Programs Kylie Lev, Assistant Curator, Aquarium of the Pacific

Building Better Coral Conservation Communications, Education and Messaging: Insights from the TALKING CORAL Project

Speaker(s):

Beth Firchau, AZA SAFE Coral Program Manager, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Why TALKING CORAL Matters Jessica Schellhorn, Education Manager, Blank Park Zoo

TALKING CORAL: An Outcomes-Based Guide for Coral Conservation Messaging to Inform, Inspire, and Activate Audiences Rachel Smith, Co-Founder, Director of Conservation, Human Nature Group

Building Big Impact Through Bold Partnerships

Speaker(s):

Lisa Wu, Program Manager: K-12 Marine Science Pathway, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Utah’s iSEE Collaboration: A Model for Peer Organizations Partnering for Legislative Funding Blair Williams, Associate Director of Education, Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

The Dragonfly Effect: Igniting Ecological and Social Change through Zoo Partnerships Amanda Berlinski, Assistant Director, Advanced Inquiry Program, Miami University | Project Dragonfly

Fostering Learning Through Experience Christine Eckles, Chief Engagement Officer, Blank Park Zoo

Community-Powered Conservation: Leveraging Student Projects to Create Real-World Partnerships and Impact Tara Reynolds, Career and Technical Education Program Manager, Utah's Hogle Zoo

Pathways to Partnership: Building Connections Across the K-12 Experience Lisa Wu, Program Manager: K-12 Marine Science Pathway, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Building the Mission: Behind the Scenes Stories from a Campus Transformation

Speaker(s):

Colley Hodges, Sustainability Director, Houston Zoo, Inc.

Panelists Jason Hill, Principal, SH|R Studios Mark Hoffman, Director, Design and Engineering, Houston Zoo, Inc. Melinda Florian, Partner, Lake Flato Architects

Building the Unconventional: The Specialized Features That Bring Zoos and Aquariums to Life

Speaker(s):

Tom Marschner, Principal, PGAV Destinations

Built by Nature: Integrating Natural Tree Structures into Animal Environments Amelia Baxter, CEO, WholeTrees

Carving Experience: Designing and Building Thematic Rockwork for Zoos Stephen Dodson, Rockwork Operations Director, Nassal

Engineering the View: Acrylic Panels for Animal Habitats Butch Ringelspaugh, Regional Manager, Reynolds Polymer Technology, Inc.

Designing Transparency: Mesh and Containment Systems for Animal Habitats Sean Stoddard, President, A Thru Z Consulting and Distributing, Inc.

Community Connections: Membership Access for All

Speaker(s):

Betsy Hall, Vice President for Guest Experiences, Museum of Life and Science

Foster Family Membership Access Amy Carrington, Membership Manager, Utah's Hogle Zoo

GO! (Greater Opportunity) Programs Jennifer Barker, Director of Membership & Engagement, Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc.

Ignite: Solving for Community Access Susan Rigby, Director of Membership Engagement, Museum of Life and Science

Conservation Gamification: How to Turn Competition and Achievement Into a Win For Conservation

Speaker(s):

Shanna Hillard, Evaluation and Interpretive Collections Coordinator, Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Level Up: Using Video Games as Tools of Conservation Change Shanna Hillard, Evaluation and Interpretive Collections Coordinator, Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Changing the Game? Keeping Scientific Inquiry Relevant When Answers Are A Click Away Maddy Herron, Environmental Engagement Manager, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center Jennifer Arledge, Director of Environmental Engagement, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Panelist Shana Kent, Learning Engagement & CORaL Project Manager, Alaska SeaLife Center

Creative Solutions To Difficult Behavioral Health Issues

Speaker(s):

Dr. Melissa Nelson Slater, Assistant Curator of Behavioral Husbandry, Bronx Zoo

Over the Moon: Achieving Dramatic Reduction in Stereotypic Behavior in an Adult Female Grizzly Bear Named Luna Dr. Allison Bailey, City Zoos Research Manager, Wildlife Conservation Society

Impact of Neighboring Conspecifics on Stereotypic Behavior Dr. Lance Miller, Vice President of Animal Welfare Science, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Seeing Past the Obvious: Customizing a Program To Address Behavior Issues in a Sea Lion Andy Madigan, Director of Zoological Operations, Animal Training - Pinnipeds, Georgia Aquarium

Penguin Retirement Island: How New England Aquarium Developed a New Way To Care for Geriatric Penguins Kristen McMahon, Curator of Pinnipeds and Penguins, New England Aquarium

Stopped Show, to Showstopper! How Sulphur Crested Cockatoo “Coconut” Got His Groove (And Feathers) Back Dr. Katie Hall, Director of Animal Behavior and Wellbeing, Minnesota Zoological Garden

Freeing up the Operant for African Elephants Results in Reduced Stereotypy Rick Hester, Animal Behavior Programs Manager, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Curiosity, Chaos, and a Little Bit of Weird: The Fun Side of Science

Speaker(s):

Dr. Marieke Gartner, Director of Animal Welfare, Zoo Atlanta

Listening to Behavior: A Curious Approach Dr. Bethany Krebs, ACM Consultant, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

When a Watermelon Works but Isn’t the Answer Darren Minier, Director of Animal Welfare and Research, Oakland Zoo

When the Anteater Changes the Schedule: Diurnal/Nocturnal Shifts in a Captive Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) Dr. Kaylin Tennant, Conservation and Science Research Fellow, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

How a “What If” and a Bathroom Mirror Sparked a Study on Cheetah Personality Dr. Nadja Wielebnowski, Director of Animal Welfare and Research, Oregon Zoo

Deep Currents: Unlocking the Power of Email Marketing

Speaker(s):

Randy Siebert, Development Database Administrator, Oregon Zoo Foundation

Panelists Rachael Shappard, Digital Marketing Manager, Houston Zoo, Inc. Brian Lee, Digital Marketing Manager, Georgia Aquarium Alysa Wulf, Marketing Specialist, Oregon Zoo

Good Enough Data: Testing Messaging When Perfect Proof Isn’t Possible Ashley Hardt, Annual Giving Manager, Oregon Zoo Foundation

Design is a Hypothesis. Evaluation is the Test: Managing Habitats Across Their Lifecycle

Speaker(s):

Jonathan Stechschulte, Zoological Designer, PGAV Destinations

Habitats as Hypotheses: Building the Foundation for Testable Outcomes Jonathan Stechschulte, Zoological Designer, PGAV Destinations

Performance, Feedback, Revision: Measuring Behavior to Adapt Zoo Habitats Rick Hester, Animal Behavior Programs Manager, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Savanna Stories: 12 Years of Managing the Mixed-Species Habitats in Columbus Zoo’s Heart of Africa Adam Felts, Vice President Animal Care and Director of Animal Wellbeing, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Elevating Leadership: Strategies for Visibility, Voice, and Influence

Speaker(s):

Kelsey Ryan, Associate Vice President, Communications, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Leading Out Loud: Growing Reach and Recognition for Conservation Experts Ken Peterson, Senior Executive Communications Strategist, Monterey Bay Aquarium

Leading the Conversation: Elevating Voices Through Media and Thought Leadership Johnny Ford, Vice President of Communications, John G. Shedd Aquarium

Getting Noticed: Leveraging Blooloop to Elevate Your Leaders Ruth Read, Director, blooloop

Starting Small: Building Leadership Presence Step by Step Denise Wilson, Director of Marketing Communications, The Florida Aquarium

Entering the AI Era: Data, Decisions and the Future of Zoos and Aquariums

Speaker(s):

Susan Nguyen, Success Manager, accesso

Panelists John Rouse, Chief of Aquarium & Visitor Operations, Aquarium of the Pacific Kristen Greene, Director, Financial Planning & Analysis, New England Aquarium Julia Russell, Director of Membership and Audience Strategy, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance Charles Hayslett, Business Analyst, Tennessee Aquarium Gregory Hawken Krämer, Data Administration & CRM Manager, Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

From Creeks to Coasts: Mobilizing Public Action to Tackle Marine Debris

Speaker(s):

Mark Losavio, Conservation Policy Manager, Monterey Bay Aquarium

Panelists Kim McIntyre, Aquarium Conservation Partnership Executive Director, Monterey Bay Aquarium Dr. Amanda Lindell, Senior Researcher, Inform Evaluation & Research Catherine Yuan, Exhibit Content Developer, California Academy of Sciences Natalie Clifton, Exhibit Specialist, National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium Moira Tamayo, Sr. Marketing Manager & Communications Advisor, Seattle Aquarium Society Brian Sano, Head of Strategy, Intuitive AI

From Data to Dollars: Using the AZA Earned Revenue Survey, Internal KPIs, and AI to Advance Earned Income

Speaker(s):

Greg Edgar, Executive Director, Business Operations, Bronx Zoo

Sector Trends and Institutional Benchmarking Greg Edgar, Executive Director, Business Operations, Bronx Zoo

Using Benchmarking to Identify Capital Needs & Support City Funds Allocation for Earned Revenue Expansion Richard Spana, Director, Business Operations, Bronx Zoo

Benchmarking Membership Programs to Identify Opportunities for Future Growth Debbie Schneiderman, Executive Director, Membership & Digital, Wildlife Conservation Society

From Good to Great: Board Governance that Powers Mission Impact in Zoos and Aquariums

Speaker(s):

Jenny Bergman, Senior Consultant, Benefactor Group

Panelists Dr. Hayley Murphy, Executive Director/CEO, Detroit Zoo Thomas Schmid, President & CEO, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Dr. Mike Adkesson, President & CEO, Brookfield Zoo Chicago Carrie Lewis, President & CEO, Oregon Coast Aquarium

From Green to Gold: How Plants Drive Revenue and Sustainability

Speaker(s):

Jonathan Stechschulte, Zoological Designer, PGAV Destinations

The Benefits of Functional Horticulture & Multifaceted Gardens Jeffrey Pera, Horticulturist, Oregon Zoo

Living Landscapes, Living Systems: Green Infrastructure and Native Plants as Zoo Campus Infrastructure Andrew McDowell, Manager of Sustainability, Detroit Zoo

Browsing at the Zoo: Utilizing Our Landscape for Animal Welfare Ren Smith, Horticulture Supervisor, Woodland Park Zoo

Designing Elephant Valley: Building an Immersive African Savanna Destination Raj Brown, Director of Horticulture, San Diego Zoo Safari Park

From Guests to Donors: The New Role of CRM in Visitor-Centric Organizations

Speaker(s):

TJ Christensen, CEO, BlueGator, LLC

Panelists Debbie Schneiderman, Executive Director, Membership & Digital, Wildlife Conservation Society Jeremy Bound, Director of IT, Phoenix Zoo

Shaping Your Story in AI Search: Practical GEO Strategies for Zoos and Aquariums Jared Allread, Manager of AI Strategy, Public Communications Inc.

From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Developing Youth in Third Spaces

Speaker(s):

Stephanie Joseph, Curator of Education, New York Aquarium

Panelists Nina Loughman, Manager Youth Engagement, Phoenix Zoo Danica Person, Youth Development Supervisor, Oregon Zoo Mallory Hebert, Coordinator Government Affairs and Policy, John G. Shedd Aquarium Bethany Housman, Director of School and Community Partnerships, Philadelphia Zoo

From Plan to Progress: Why Every Strategy Needs a Champion

Speaker(s):

Anna Musun-Miller, Vice President, Planning, Canopy Strategic Partners

Panelists Allison Tuttle, Chief Zoological Officer, Mystic Aquarium Rachael Bashor, VP of Mission Engagement, Riverbanks Zoo Misha Body, Deputy Zoo Director, Animals & Experiences, Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens Jane Walsh, Major Gift Officer, Louisville Zoological Garden

From Research to Relevance: How Recent Studies About Visitors, Staff, and Communities Are Changing Zoo and Aquarium Practice

Speaker(s):

Dr. Brian Johnson, Co-founder and Partner, Inform Evaluation & Research

Why People Insights Matter in Today’s Zoos and Aquariums Shelley Rank, Research and Evaluation Manager, Wildlife Conservation Society

In Memoriam: Supporting Staff After Animal Loss Nichole Nageotte, Community Research & Evaluation Manager, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Nothing About Us Without Us: Using Staff Voice to Transform DEAI Culture Stephanie Steele, Senior Strategist, DEAI and HR, Woodland Park Zoo

From Guessing to Knowing: How Research Can Turn Confusion Into Clarity Nicolette Canzoneri, President/Founder, Practically Eco LLC

Wayfinding Our Future Purpose: From Insights to Shifts in Practice Dr. Sarah Thomas, Head of Conservation Avocacy and Engagement, Auckland Zoo

Listening as Evaluation: Developing a Process for Authentic Community Collaborations Stephanie Bohr, Senior Director, Learning Partnerships & Impact, Woodland Park Zoo Anna Rebecca Lopez, Learning Partnerships Manager, Woodland Park Zoo

From Classrooms to Crocodiles: Evaluation, Research, and Adaptive Management in International Conservation Andy David, Associate Curator of Social Science, North Carolina Zoo

Strengthening Visitor Engagement With Social Science Research and Evaluation Dr. Kerry Carlin-Morgan, Director of Mission Engagement, Oregon Coast Aquarium

From Screen to Strategy: Leveraging Pop Culture Trends To Advance Conservation Impact

Speaker(s):

Julianne Olivo, Director of Public Relations, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

From Daniel Tiger to Zoo Originals: How IP Can Drive Visits and Revenue Jameson English, Director, Business & Client Strategy, RWS Global

Panelists Dr. Kristen Lukas, Director of Conservation and Science, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Andrea Ponikvar, Director of Advancement, Cleveland Zoological Society Emily Poeschl, Manager, Brand Communications, Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom

From Silos to Synergy: Engaging Zoo Teams in Evaluation and Data-Informed Decision Making

Speaker(s):

Dr. Michelle Mileham, Program Impact Manager, Oregon Zoo

Developing a Cross-Department Team for Evaluating Strategic Success Erica Kelly, Interpretive Planning and Development Manager, Oregon Zoo

Engaging Decision-Makers in Evaluation Mary Jackson, Manager, Audience Research & Evaluation, Woodland Park Zoo

After the Data: Fun Ways to Engage in Share Outs Autumn Russell, Senior Director of Education and Communications, Akron Zoological Park

Facilitating Insight: How External Partners Support Collaborative Data Use and Actionable Outcomes Nette Pletcher, Partner, Pathways Collaborative

Scaling Evaluation: Building a Data Culture in Zoos Jessica Schellhorn, Education Manager, Blank Park Zoo

From Values to Outcomes: Measuring Conservation Culture

Speaker(s):

Ashton Jerger, Conservation Impact and Measurement Manager, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Cultivating a Culture of Conservation in AZA Institutions: Ongoing Monitoring of Culture Metrics Joy Kubarek, Co-Founder & Partner, Inform Evaluation & Research

When Conservation Becomes Personal: Transformative Experiences and the Making of Zoo Culture Dr. John Chancey, Postdoctoral Fellow, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Removing Barriers to Strengthen Conservation Culture: Activating Employee Engagement Through Conservation Action Opportunities Sydney Wasson, Conservation Culture Coordinator, Dallas Zoo

Using Data to Strengthen Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s Staff Conservation Engagement Strategy Rachael Bashor, VP of Mission Engagement, Riverbanks Zoo

Implementation of Conservation Culture at the Lehigh Valley Zoo Cher Vatalaro, Director of Conservation Education, Lehigh Valley Zoo

Empowering our People to Save Wildlife: A Conservation Culture Case Study of the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks Ashton Jerger, Conservation Impact and Measurement Manager, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Giving Unsung Species a Voice: Creating Awareness and Educating About the Unseen Animals That Run the World

Speaker(s):

Dr. Monika Bohm, Freshwater Conservation Coordinator, Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc.

How To Get Started! An Aza Institution’s Journey Towards Getting Active for Mussels Dan Marsh, Director of Education, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

How Volunteers Are Saving the Little Things That Run the World Rachel Dunham, Community Engagement and Volunteer Coordinator, The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation

Turning “Ewwws” to “Awwws”: Improving American Burying Beetle Conservation Through Public Engagement and Story Telling Robert Merz, Assistant Director, Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute, Saint Louis Zoo

Where Awareness Starts, Education Follows: The Indianapolis Zoo Uproar Conservation Challenge Matthew Barnett, Marketing Manager, Indianapolis Zoo

Honest Conversations about Zoo-Field Partnerships: the Good, the Bad, and the Rarely Discussed

Speaker(s):

Trevor Mia, Director of Education and Volunteer Programs, Zoo New England

It Takes a Village: Literally! Peter Zampine, Education Manager, Franklin Park Zoo

Flexible Funding and Partnership Models Tim Tetzlaff, Director of Conservation, Naples Zoo

Unique Partnership Angle - Zoo and SAFE Lion Perspectives Amy Gotliffe, Vice President of Conservation, Oakland Zoo Christine Eckles, Chief Engagement Officer, Blank Park Zoo

Two Varying Perspectives: From a Field Program Director and From a Zoo Director Peter Zahler, Director of Field Conservation, Zoo New England

Science-led Model and Honest Partnership Dynamics Amy Dickman, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, Lion Landscapes

Field Perspective and Partnership Realities Dr. Alayne Cotterill, Executive Director, Lion Landscapes

How to Instigate, Implement and Evaluate the CEO’s Role in Major Gift Fundraising

Speaker(s):

Robert Ramin, Senior Vice President, Huron/GGA

Panelists Pamela Holtz, Sr. Vice President & Chief External Affairs Officer, Akron Zoological Park Doug Piekarz, President & CEO, Akron Zoo Roger Germann, President & CEO, The Florida Aquarium John Slagter, Chairman, Akron Zoo Board of Directors Megan Meussner, Vice President of Philanthropy, Tulsa Zoo Lindsay Hutchison, President & CEO, Tulsa Zoo

In It For the Long Haul: Long-Term Relationships in Conservation

Speaker(s):

Dr. Kathayoon Khalil, Senior Vice President, Conservation, Education, and Sustainability, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds

Panelists Dr. Mahi Puri, Coexistence Scientist, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanic Garden Dr. Carlos Martínez Rivera, Director of Conservation, Akron Zoological Park Paula Gonzalez Ciccia, Director of Conservation, Education, and Research, Fundación Temaikèn Dr. Lisa Dabek, Senior Conservation Scientist and Senior Director, Woodland Park Zoo

Interpretive Makeovers to Increase Impact

Speaker(s):

Tess Busch, Interpretation Multimedia Coordinator, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Panelists Debra Colodner, Director of Conservation Education & Science, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Nick Hammond, Education Supervisor, SEA LIFE Orlando Jacinthe Sasson-Yenor, Senior Exhibit Developer, Bronx Zoo Erica Carnes, Volunteer and Conservation Engagement Manager, Blank Park Zoo Tess Busch, Interpretation Multimedia Coordinator, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

It Starts With the Story: Exploring the Relationship Between Interpretive Planning and Exhibit Design

Speaker(s):

Lauryn Record, Senior Project Manager - Zoo Design | Interpretive Planner, Groundcubed Inc.

Panelists Erica Kelly, Interpretive Planning and Development Manager, Oregon Zoo Kelsey Raffel, Interpretive Content Manager, Zoological Society of Milwaukee Ann Marie Lisi, Associate Director of Education, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Knowing Me, Knowing You: Equitable Knowledge Production and Translation in Conservation Outreach and Messaging

Speaker(s):

Averee Luhrs, PhD Candidate, University of Texas at San Antonio

Representing Communities in Polar Bear Conservation Messaging Kathryn Clemens, Environmental and Social Sustainability Lab Manager, The Ohio State University

Neighborhood Expertise x Zoo Expertise: A Philadelphia Case Study Bethany Housman, Director of School and Community Partnerships, Philadelphia Zoo

Nanuk Narratives: Voices of the People Living Alongside Polar Bears Andrea Hanke, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Alberta

Reciprocity in Action: Indigenous Partnerships for Language and Ecosystem Renewal Debra Colodner, Director of Conservation Education & Science, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Dr. Jacelle Ramon-Sauberan, Tohono O'odham Nation Education Development Liaison, NSF NOIRLab - Kitt Peak National Observatory

Building Long-term Relationships with Indigenous Conservation Partners - Reflections on the Evolution of a Decade of Collaboration Lisa Lidgus, Conservation Education Liaison, Saint Louis Zoo

Laying the Groundwork: Positioning Projects for Success

Speaker(s):

Megan Nielsen Hegstad, Senior Project Manager, PGAV Destinations

What’s the Big Idea? Integrating Core Concepts and Operations for Successful Projects Ari Robinson, Chief Operating Officer, Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

A Bonding Experience: Developing Bond Implementation Teams and Programs Beth Redmond-Jones, Director of Campus Planning and Development, Oregon Zoo

All Together Now: How Exhibits, Projects, and Animal Care Teams Come Together To Deliver Exceptional Work Katie Bang, Senior Director-Facilities and the Built Environment, Woodland Park Zoo Dennis Poon, Project Manager - Capital Projects, Woodland Park Zoo

Crafting the Right Project Approach: Understanding When to Leverage Internal and External Resources Jose Bacallao, Exhibits Director, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Building Toward Success: Early Considerations To Facilitate Construction Greg Leofanti, Project Director/VicePresident, Pepper Construction Company

Leading With Empathy: Building Lasting, Authentic Community Partnerships

Speaker(s):

Liz Hines, Conservation Engagement Coordinator, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

A Year at the Zoo with Park Club Apartments Christa Marlowe, Director of Education, Zoological Society of Milwaukee

Working WITH Community Partners to Build Meaningful Programs Carrie Bassett, Education Mission Manager, Akron Zoological Park

Co-Creating School Programs Through Empathy, Trust, and Community Liz Hines, Conservation Engagement Coordinator, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Marketing, PR & Government Affairs Rapid Fire

Speaker(s):

Beth Chee, Director of Marketing and Communications, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Measuring Wonder: Practical Tools for Evaluating Early Childhood Outcomes in Informal Nature Education

Speaker(s):

Dr. John Chancey, Postdoctoral Fellow, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Using Preschool Teacher and Zoo Educator Insights To Assess Program Impact Dr. Su-Jen Roberts, Director of Educational Research & Evaluation, Wildlife Conservation Society

Mixed Methods in Zoo Preschool Evaluation Dr. Jennifer Gauble, Conservation Audience Research & Evaluation Associate, Saint Louis Zoo

The State of Nature-Based Learning Across the United States Silvana Oderisi, Nature Play Early Learning Program Specialist, Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Evaluating Nature Connection in Family Programs Marty Kois, Education Programs Coordinator, Zoo Boise

Weaponizing Welfare: Modeling Conflict Resolution Around Welfare Concerns

Speaker(s):

Dr. Katie Hall, Director of Animal Behavior and Wellbeing, Minnesota Zoological Garden

Panelists Kimberly Leser, Behavioral Husbandry and Welfare Manager, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden Dr. Hayley Murphy, Executive Director/CEO, Detroit Zoo Dr. Susan Friedman, Professor, BehaviorWorks Kendle Enter, Curator, South Carolina Aquarium Jennifer Heinsius, Animal Welfare Specialist, California Science Center Shannon McKinney, Owner/ Director of Training and Development, Growing Resiliency for Aquarium and Zoo Employees, LLC

Moments that Matter: CEO–Board Decision-Making When the Stakes are High

Speaker(s):

Lori Perkins, Vice President, Canopy Strategic Partners

Panelists David Walsh, President & Chief Advisor, Canopy Strategic Partners Dr. Alejandro Grajal, President & CEO, Woodland Park Zoo Carrie Lewis, President & CEO, Oregon Coast Aquarium Nik Dehejia, President & CEO, Oakland Zoo Dr. Wei Ying Wong, President & CEO, Alaska SeaLife Center

Next Step Pathways for Every Volunteer

Speaker(s):

Brianna Cronin, Volunteer Coordinator, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Docent Training at Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance Emily Berglund, Director of Conservation Learning Capacity + Volunteer Impact, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance

Competency Based Culture of Professional Development Kellie Johnson, Education Programs Coordinator, Little Rock Zoo

Presenter Kenton Kerns, Curator, Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute

Non-Traditional Volunteer & Intern Engagement: Turning Untapped Talent into Institutional Impact

Speaker(s):

Melissa Dude, Director of Volunteer Engagement, The Florida Aquarium

From Interns to Institutional Leaders: Scaling Impact Through Student-Led Campaigns Julie Bates, Director, Volunteer Services, Dallas Zoo

OKC Zoo Photo Crew Tasha Dyson, Organizational Development Programs Manager, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

From Data to Decisions: The Power of the Data Squad Margaret Regis, Learning Coordinator, Volunteer Engagement, Woodland Park Zoo

Impact in the Community through Creative Partnerships Misty Mitchell, Director of Conservation Education, Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

Beyond the Gates: Engaging Volunteers in Urban Wildlife Science Kristin Tetzlaff, Director of Volunteer Services & Workforce Development, Lincoln Park Zoo

Unique Volunteer Roles That Fill Needs and Build Community Stacey Luhring, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

On The Boards: Projects in Design or Construction

Speaker(s):

Jason Hill, Principal, SH|R Studios

Shedd Aquarium – Changing Ocean’s Gallery Sarah Werner, Manager, Interpretive Programs, John G. Shedd Aquarium

Zoo Atlanta – Orkin Children’s Zoo Revitalization Eric Hall, Vice President Facilites and Construction, Zoo Atlanta Jamie Ohrt, Associate Architect, Tessere

Houston Zoo – Rhino Habitat Renovation Gretchen Foust, Project Manager, Houston Zoo, Inc. Andrew Leach, Principal, SH|R Studios

Edmonton Valley Zoo – Connected Coasts Laura Castor, Operations Manager, Edmonton Valley Zoo and John Janzen Nature Centre, Edmonton Valley Zoo Lauryn Record, Senior Project Manager - Zoo Design | Interpretive Planner, Groundcubed Inc.

Oregon Zoo – Master Plan Heidi Rahn, Director, Oregon Zoo Beth Redmond-Jones, Director of Campus Planning and Development, Oregon Zoo

Potter Park – Feline & Primate House Renovation Cynthia Wagner, Director, Potter Park Zoological Gardens Rosey Masek, Director of Animal Wellbeing and Habitat Design, PGAV Destinations

Riverbanks – Bridge to the Wild Lochlan Wooten, Chief Strategy Officer, Riverbanks Zoo & Garden Nick Lott, Senior Associate, CLR Design

One Issue, Many Paths: Choosing Advocacy Actions That Work for Your Institution

Speaker(s):

Katie Farley, Manager of Curriculum and Instruction, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

A Layered Approach to Advocacy: Lessons from the ESA David Orban, Vice President of Animal Programs, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden David Jenike, Zoo Director, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Changing Hearts and Minds on the Aquarium Floor Katie Farley, Manager of Curriculum and Instruction, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk Jason Patlis, Director, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Moving Audiences from Awareness to Action: an ESA case study Dr. Hayley Brazier, Wildlife Conservation Specialist, Oregon Zoo Shervin Hess, Conservation Manager, Oregon Zoo

Integrated Advocacy: Turning Institutional Alignment into Action Mallory Hebert, Coordinator Government Affairs and Policy, John G. Shedd Aquarium

People Advancing Conservation Together through Group Efficacy

Speaker(s):

Katey Leban, Conservation Coordinator, Association of Zoos & Aquariums

Panelists Ashton Jerger, Conservation Impact and Measurement Manager, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Dr. Drew Cronin, Director of Conservation, Education & Science, North Carolina Zoo Katie Manion, Curator of Education, National Aviary Mollye Nardi, General Curator, Birmingham Zoo

People Don’t Follow Pipelines

Speaker(s):

Ashley Hardt, Annual Giving Manager, Oregon Zoo Foundation

This Didn’t Happen by Accident Amber Morrison, Major Gifts Officer, Oregon Zoo Foundation

Service Is Doing More Than You Think Rebecca Dixon, Membership Manager, Oregon Zoo Foundation

This Feels Personal Tracy Timmins, Giving Circle Manager, Oregon Zoo Foundation

Play That Performs: Designing Family Spaces that Drive Engagement and Return Visits

Speaker(s):

Julie Hartunian, Design Director, Roto

Panelists Evan Killeen, CEO, Lincoln Children's Zoo Dr. Kerry Carlin-Morgan, Director of Mission Engagement, Oregon Coast Aquarium Zachary Winfield, Vice President, Canopy Strategic Partners Sean Ramsay, Partner, Roto Chelo Grubb, Marketing & Communications Supervisor, Reid Park Zoo

Project Financing Solutions & Lessons from the Field

Speaker(s):

Natasha Walth, Director, Stifel

Panelists Gina DiMartino, Director, Stifel Kathleen Tisone, CFO, Saint Louis Zoo Jeffrey Smith, COO, Trevor-Lovejoy Zoo

Pushing Boundaries: New Audiences, New Revenues, Enhanced Mission-Delivery

Speaker(s):

Jason Jacobs, Senior Consultant, Relevant Strategies & Solutions (RS&S)

Creating Moments at the Manor: Delivering High-Impact Hospitality Rick Barongi, CEO, Longneck Manor

Activating Adventures: Experience-Based Lodging and Programming Thomas Schmid, President & CEO, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Dare to Do: Implementing New Guest Engagement Experiences Dwight Lawson, Executive Director/CEO, Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Illusions After Dark: Technology & Narrative Experiences Morgan Lee Richardson, Co-Founder & Creative, Mangolin Creative, LLC

Recent Advances in Zoo Animal Welfare Science

Speaker(s):

Dr. Lance Miller, Vice President of Animal Welfare Science, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Genus-Specific Allostatic Load Indices Fail To Measure Physiological Welfare in Chimpanzees and Bonobos Dr. Ashley Edes, Animal Welfare Scientist, Saint Louis Zoo

Exploring Heterogeneity in Polar Bear Stereotypies Dr. Lance Miller, Vice President of Animal Welfare Science, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Oh The Places You’ll Go-rilla: Welfare Throughout Transfers Dr. Kylen Gartland, Manager of Applied Animal Welfare Science, Detroit Zoo

Taking Control: Do Orangutans Benefit from Shaping their Environment? Dr. Marieke Gartner, Director of Animal Welfare, Zoo Atlanta

Rapid, Evidence-Based Decision-Making: A Case Study With an Individual Scalloped Hammerhead in a Complex Aquatic Environment Dr. Julianna Kadar, Science Operations Manager, The Seas

A Rattlesnake Rhumba – Evaluating Behavioral Changes of Aruba Island Rattlesnakes (Crotalus unicolor) Following a Social Introduction Dr. Jason Wark, Director, Animal Welfare Science Program, Lincoln Park Zoo