Program guide - AZA Annual Conference
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program guide
WELCOME to
BALTIMORE
AND TO THE ANNUAL CONFERENCE!
AUGUST 27 – SEPTEMBER 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 AZA Board of Directors and Staff 21 Program Schedule
3 Program Committee and Special Events
5 General Information 77 Poster Presentations
11 Maps 83 Exhibitors
15 Green Mission
19 Sponsors
98th Annual Conference of
AZA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021–2022
AZA BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STAFF
CHAIR D IR E CTORS
Brian Davis, Ph.D. Richard Block Megan Ross, Ph.D.
President and CEO CEO President & CEO
Georgia Aquarium Santa Barbara Zoological Gardens Lincoln Park Zoo
Christopher Dold, DVM Dwight Scott
CHAIR- ELECT Chief Zoological Officer Dana Brown President & CEO
Adrienne Rowland SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Parks Saint Louis Zoo
Director
Shark Reef Aquarium at Chris Kuhar, Ph.D. Cynthia Vernon
Mandalay Bay Executive Director Chief Operating Officer
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Monterey Bay Aquarium
VI C E C H AI R
Lisa New
Margo McKnight Denise Verret
President and CEO
President & CEO Chief Executive Officer & Zoo Director
Zoo Knoxville
Palm Beach Zoo Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens
PAST C H AI R
Eric Rose
Bert Castro
Senior Vice President Zoological
President/CEO
Advancement
Phoenix Zoo, Arizona Center for Nature
Herschend Enterprises
Conservation
AZA STAFF
Dan Ashe Jennifer Keaton, Vice President, Congressional Affairs
President and CEO
Jack Keeney, General Counsel
Matt Krcmarik, Coordinator, Animal Programs
Katey Leban, Coordinator, Conservation
Craig Hoover, Executive Vice President Tim Lewthwaite, Director, Publications & Brand
Denny Lewis, Senior Vice President, Accreditation Programs
Elissa Amador, Coordinator, Integrated Marketing & Karly Marcy, Coordinator, Digital Media
Development Brynn McDonnell, Coordinator, Government Affairs
Cheryl Andrews, Director, Conferences Steve Olson, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs
Cheri Bermudez, Coordinator, Accreditation Programs Leticia Orti, Executive Assistant
Megan Brown, Ph.D., Director, Population Management Bridgett Owen, Coordinator, Events
Strategy
Ashley Pritchard, Program Assistant, Member Services
Gillian Cannataro, Program Assistant, Conservation
Programs Ana Maria Sanchez, Controller
Anna Daumer, Program Assistant, Member Services Rob Vernon, Senior Vice President, Communications &
Strategy
Jennifer DiNenna, Director, Accreditation Programs
Phil Wagner, Senior Vice President, Finance & CFO
Candice Dorsey, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Conservation,
Management & Welfare Sciences Sara Walker, Senior Advisor, Wildlife Trafficking
Lauren George, Coordinator, Professional Development & Stephanie Wood, Accounting Assistant
Education Ashley Zielinski, Director, Zoo and Aquarium All Hazards
Shelly Grow, Vice President, Conservation & Science Partnership (ZAHP)
Grace Hamilton, Program Assistant, Member Services Joan Zimmerman, Coordinator, Database
Kari Hart, Director, Professional Development & Education
Jessica Heckendorn, Director, Member Relations &
Engagement
Melissa Howerton, Senior Vice President, Member Services
2
AN N UAL CO N F E R E N C E PRO GRAM CO M M I TTEE
ANNUAL CONFERENCE PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Thank you to the AZA Annual Conference Program Committee! The following Committee members work hard to
represent member needs and interests to develop the best Annual Conference concurrent sessions. Each session
topic, paper and poster submission, and speaker are all carefully vetted and developed. The dedication of your
Annual Conference Program Committee to create the best Conference program is greatly appreciated.
C HA I R
Kelly Matis PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING
VP Education & Conservation Greg Heanue, Chief Marketing Officer, Oklahoma City Zoo
Mystic Aquarium and Botanical Garden
Duane McGregor, Marketing Director, Cameron Park Zoo
Jackie Wallace, Senior Director, Public Relations,
VIC E C HA I R Houston Zoo
Craig Jacobs, Director of Human Resources, Omaha’s
Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium VOLUNTEER & INTERN ENGAGEMENT
Lace Garland, Manager of Volunteer and Internship
Programs, New England Aquarium
M E M BERS
A NIMAL MANAGEMENT, HEALTH & WELFARE TRENDS & MORE
Gary Lunsford, Director of Zoological Services,
Craig Jacobs, Director of Human Resources, Omaha’s
Buttonwood Park Zoo
Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
Amy Roberts, Director of Animal Programs, Roger Williams
Megan Nielsen Hegstad, Principal, Maristella Studio
Park Zoo
Tim Van Loan, Behavior and Enrichment Manager,
Albuquerque Biological Park H OST LIAIS O NS
Stephanie Allard, SVP/Chief Animal Welfare Officer,
AQUARIUM AFFAIRS National Aquarium
Dee Murphy, Zoological Manager, The Seas Sharon Bowen, Director of Interpretation and Evaluation,
Larry Warner, Director, North Carolina Aquarium on Maryland Zoo
Roanoke Island
AZA B OARD LIAIS O N
BUSINESS OPERATIONS Denise Verret, Chief Executive Officer & Zoo Director,
Sean Greene, COO/Executive VP of Park Operations, Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens
Dallas Zoo
CONSERVATION AZA STAFF LIAIS O NS
Dr. Rich Bergl, Director of Conservation, Education and Melissa Howerton, Senior Vice President, Member Services
Science, North Carolina Zoological Park Cheryl Andrews, Director, Conferences
Renee Bumpus, Senior Director, Wildlife Conservation Bridgett Owen, Coordinator, Events
Programs, Houston Zoo
Claire Martin, Senior Manager, Disney Conservation,
Disney Enterprise Social Responsibility
D EVELOPMENT/FUNDRAISING & MEMBERSHIP
Amy Lazoff, Director of Development, Fort Wayne
Children’s Zoo
EDUCATION
Amanda Lindell, PhD Student, University of California,
Davis
Kelly Matis, VP Education & Conservation, Mystic Aquarium
3
E V E N T H OSTS
HOSTS AND EVENT SPONSORS
HOST PLANNING COMMITTEE HOST PLANNING COMMITTEE
John Racanelli, President and CEO
Kirby Fowler, President and CEO
Margot Amelia, Planning Committee Chair
Shannon Brown, Zoo Day Hospitality
Dr. Stephanie Allard, Program Committee Liaison
Sharon Bowen, Program Committee
Emma Wesoloski, Entertainment & Local Alignment
Michael Evitts, Communications
Laura Bankey, Green Team
Hailey Hays, Marketing/Creative Services
Nora Campbell, Icebreaker
Dana Kirn, Silent Auction
Kim Lacomare, Marketing/Communications
Kerrie Kovaleski, Planning Committee Chair
Muri Dueppen, Sponsorships
Karl Kranz, Chief Operating Officer
Beth Markowitz, Volunteers
Sandra McAllister, Zoo Day Operations
Michael McClure, Zoo Day Experiences
Michele Rutkowski, Chief Financial Officer
Allison Schwartz, Volunteers
Monica Wojtanowski, Vice President of Human Resources
NATIONAL AQUARIUM’S MARYLAND ZOO’S
ICEBREAKER SPONSORS ZOO DAY SPONSORS
Presenting Sponsor Premier Sponsor Title Sponsor Bar Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor Dessert Sponsor Leadership Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Partner Sponsors
Powering Missions That MatterTM
Silver Sponsor
Community Partner
Bronze Sponsors
4
GENERAL INFORMATION © National Aquarium
ATTE ND E E G E N E R A L INFO RM ATI O N
GENERAL INFORMATION
VACCINATION CHECK FIRST AID AND EMERGENCIES
Before accessing the registration area, attendees and To contact the Convention Center’s Public Safety desk,
participants are required to visit the Vaccination Check desk dial #7055 from any house phone.
to confirm approved status. Once confirmed, a registration
Or they can be reached at 410–649–7055
badge will be provided and access to the registration area for
additional materials will be allowed. ACCESSIBILITY
AZA strives to ensure conferences do not pose barriers
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
that may exclude people from attending or participating.
Registration is located in Exhibit Hall C on the 100 Level of
If you require assistance, please stop by the Conference
the Baltimore Convention Center, accessible from the Charles
Registration Desk at the entrance of Exhibit Hall C.
Street Lobby.
CONFERENCE LOCATION
REGISTRATION HOURS
All meetings, concurrent and general sessions, and the
Exhibit Hall are located in the Baltimore Convention Center,
Sunday, August 28 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
unless otherwise noted. Refer to the enclosed maps or
Monday, August 29 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM the Annual Conference App for exact location of all
meeting rooms.
Tuesday, August 30 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Baltimore Convention Center
Wednesday, August 31 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
1 West Pratt Street
Thursday, September 1 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 649-7000
AZA conference badges must be worn at all sessions, The Baltimore Convention Center is a non-smoking facility.
meetings, and social events. Thank you to the support of
Platinum Conference SSA Group for sponsoring the badge BUSINESS CENTER
holders. At the conclusion of the Conference, please recycle The Business Center at the Convention Center is currently
badge holders by returning to the Conference Registration closed. Please visit the Business Center at your hotel.
Desk at the Convention Center, or in the receptacle provided
at Zoo Day. MOTHER’S ROOM
Conference delegate bags are made from pre-consumer The designated Mother’s room is located by room 341, which
recycled cotton. Please support the Annual Conference Green is equipped with soft furniture, side tables, plenty of outlets,
Mission by using these bags during and after the Conference. and can lock from the inside when occupied.
Thank you to Platinum Sponsor Canopy Strategic Partners
(previously Zoo Advisors) for sponsoring the bags. SPEAKER PREP ROOM
Thank you to Mananalu for providing the canned water, The Speaker Prep Room is located at the Baltimore
which can be reused by using the water bottle filling stations Convention Center in Room 326. It will be available to
throughout the Convention Center. For every bottle of speakers only during the following times:
Mananalu, they remove the equivalent of one plastic bottle
from ocean-going waste. Monday, August 29 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday, August 30 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
CONFERENCE POLICIES
Wednesday, August 31 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
AZA is committed to providing a safe, productive, and
welcoming environment for all meeting participants and Thursday, September 1 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
AZA staff. Each and every participant, including attendees,
speakers, volunteers, exhibitors, Association staff, service
providers, is expected to understand and follow attendance
policies. These expectations apply to all AZA meeting-related
events, including those events held in conjunction with AZA
conferences and events. For more information on the AZA
Code of Conduct and other safety tips while in Baltimore,
see page 9.
Solicitation of attendees and exhibitors by non-exhibitors is
prohibited.
6
EXHIBIT HALL
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Conference Exhibit Hall is located in Exhibit Hall C on
the 100 Level of the Baltimore Convention Center, accessible
from the Charles Street Lobby. The Exhibit Hall is open during
the following times:
Tuesday, August 30 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday, August 31 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Please reference the index in the back of the program book
for a complete listing of all Exhibitors with booth numbers
and contact information. A fold-out map of the Exhibit Hall
is also provided in the center of the program book, or search
the Annual Conference App for a complete listing and map.
INTERNET/WI-FI © Maryland Zoo
Complimentary wireless Internet is available throughout the
hallways of the Convention Center, in the meeting rooms CHARGING LOCKERS
and general sessions, and the Exhibit Hall. Thank you, to Need to recharge? Look for the charging lockers located in
Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company for Sponsoring the the Exhibit Hall and in the meeting space. Lockers allow you a
Conference Wi-Fi. safe way to charge your mobile devices and lock them, while
To access the wireless Internet, connect to the network doing something else.
AZA2022 and enter password WildKingdom (case sensitive).
If you are not prompted to enter a password, open your web TRANSPORTATION
browser. Icebreaker
It is intended for basic web usage. It should not be used for The Aquarium is located downtown and is walkable from
Zoom or other web streaming services. all Conference hotels. There will be limited motorcoach
transportation traveling continually between the Convention
AZA CENTRAL Center to the Aquarium and back to the Center from 5:30 PM
Visit AZA Central, located on the center aisle of the Exhibit to 9:15 PM.
Hall, to learn about the various programs AZA offers. Explore
Zoo Day
AZA membership, the Web site, professional development
Motor coaches will whisk you from the Baltimore Convention
courses, Accreditation and other tools and resources. Meet
Center to our campus for an unforgettable day. Shuttles
AZA Staff members available to answer your questions. And,
run between 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM with returns between
be sure to enter the daily drawings here!
6:30 – 8:30 PM. Our campus has free parking and is
convenient for ride share services such as Uber and Lyft.
SAFE: SAVING ANIMAL FROM EXTINCTION
SILENT AUCTION
HOST ZOO AND AQUARIUM TEAMS
Support SAFE’s matching campaign challenge by bidding on
Over 200 National Aquarium and Maryland Zoo staff and
items in the Silent Auction, located in the front, left of Exhibit
volunteers have committed time to assist at registration,
Hall C. Bidding will take place during Exhibit Hall hours and
served as room monitors, and as way-finders. Wearing the
will close following the Poster Reception on Wednesday,
light blue colored shirt, they are eager to assist. Please take
August 31. Proceeds benefit conservation programs around
the time to thank them for their hard work and dedication to
the globe – be sure to place your bid!
making this conference a success.
SOCIAL MEDIA
FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES
Connect with colleagues while at the Conference on various
Welcome to all first-time Annual Conference attendees!
social networking sites. Find the Annual Conference on
Be sure to add the rainbow ribbon on your name badge to
Facebook:
signify first-time conference attendance. And don’t miss
www.facebook.com/AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums
the First-Time Attendee Meeting on Monday, August 29,
or on Twitter: #AZA2022 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM in Room 307.
@zoos_aquariums
7
MESSAGE BOARD AND INFORMATION TABLE GET CONNECTED!
GENERAL INFORMATION
A message board and information table will be located at
the Conference Registration Desk at the entrance of Hall F.
Mobile App
The message board and table are for professional networking iPhone and Android users:
and conservation/education programs only. No commercial Search AZA Conferences
solicitation permitted at the information table, or any other and Meetings
location throughout the convention center or hotels. If you downloaded the
Mid-Year Meeting or Annual
CELL PHONE COURTESY
Conference app in the past,
Please be considerate of presenters and other attendees – no need to download again!
turn off your cell phones or set them to vibrate.
Mobile Website
LOST AND FOUND bit.ly/AZAAnnual2022
Lost and found will be located at the Conference Registration
Wi-Fi
Desk at the entrance of Exhibit Hall C. If you have lost or
found something, please stop by registration for assistance. Network: AZA2022
Password: WildKingdom (case sensitive)
EVALUATIONS
AZA is dedicated to making each conference better than
the last. Shortly after the conference, attendees will receive GET ENGAGED!
an electronic survey. Please complete the survey and share
your comments to help continuously shape and improve the AZA2022
#
conference. @zoos_aquariums
PHOTOGRAPHY AND VOICE RECORDINGS www.facebook.com/
Photographers will be taking pictures at the Conference, AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums
which may be used for promotional and educational
purposes. Registration or participation in the meeting and
other activities constitutes agreement to allow AZA to use
and distribute image or voice in photographs and recordings
of the meeting.
2022 AZA QUARTER CENTURY AWARD
The Quarter Century Award recognizes zoos and aquariums
that have been accredited continuously for 25 years or more.
First granted accreditation in 1997, congratulations to…
Brevard Zoo
Dallas World Aquarium
The Florida Aquarium
Hutchinson Zoo
8CO N F E R E N C E CO DE O F CO ND UCT AND SAFETY
CONFERENCE CODE OF CONDUCT
CODE OF CONDUCT • Harassing photography.
AZA is committed to providing a safe, productive, and • Photographing slides of oral presentations, taking screen
welcoming environment during AZA-scheduled activities shots of chat room/Q&A activity and taking photos of
for all meeting participants and AZA staff. Each and every posters without permission from presenter – with intent to
participant, including attendees, speakers, volunteers, distribute.
exhibitors, Association staff, and service providers, is • Recording of presentations and other sessions without
expected to understand and follow policies in all in-person permission from presenter and intent to distribute.
and virtual spaces during AZA-scheduled activities. These
• Violating the rules and regulations of the conference venue.
expectations apply to all AZA scheduled activities listed in
the meeting program, including those held in conjunction • Examples of unacceptable behavior include comments
with AZA conferences. Of course, neither AZA nor any related to gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual
conference host can prevent incidents from occurring, but orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race,
AZA can and will take steps to minimize the potential for religion, national origin, political affiliation; inappropriate
occurrence, respond compassionately, and seek to deter use of nudity and/or sexual images in public spaces or
repetition of reported violations. in presentations; or threatening or stalking any attendee,
speaker, volunteer, exhibitor, AZA staff member, service
PERSONAL SAFETY AND SECURITY provider, or other meeting guest.
AZA works with venue staff and online moderators to provide
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
a safe environment for all meeting participants. We ask that
Sexual harassment is unacceptable conduct of a sexual
all attendees report any questionable activity to any AZA or
nature which makes a person feel uncomfortable, offended,
venue security staff for immediate action. No concern is too
humiliated and/or intimidated. Examples of conduct or
small – if you see something, say something.
behavior which constitute sexual harassment include, but are
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. not limited to:
• Regardless of where you are, use the buddy system when
walking to and from the conference location, networking Physical conduct
events, and other locations – especially during early or • Physical violence, including sexual assault
late hours. • Unwelcome physical contact or inappropriate touching
• Don’t wear your meeting badge on the street. Take it off as • The use of threats or rewards to solicit sexual favors
soon as you leave the venue.
• Don’t carry a lot of cash or credit cards. Verbal/written conduct
• Comments or insults based on appearance, age,
• Don’t leave personal property unattended anywhere,
private life, etc.
anytime.
• Sexual comments, stories or jokes
In an emergency, you should ask any AZA staff member or
the on-site security personnel to help you. • Sexual advances
• Repeated and unwanted social invitations for dates or
RESPONSIBLE DRINKING physical intimacy
At many AZA networking events, both alcoholic and non- • Condescending or sexist remarks
alcoholic beverages are served. AZA expects participants at
• Sending sexually explicit messages (by phone or email)
our events to drink responsibly. AZA and conference host
event staff have the right to deny service to participants, and Non-verbal conduct
may require a participant to leave the event.
• Display of sexually explicit or suggestive material or images
UNACCEPTABLE CONDUCT • Sexually suggestive gestures
• Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination in any form. • Whistling or “cat calling”
• Any abuse, including physical, verbal or non-verbal abuse,
of any attendee, speaker, volunteer, exhibitor, AZA staff
member, service provider, or any other meeting guest.
• Disruption of presentations at any sessions, in the exhibit
hall, or at any events organized by AZA at the meeting
venue, hotels, or other AZA-contracted facilities and
online platforms.
9REPORTING UNACCEPTABLE CONDUCT Upon receiving a complaint, the matter may be further
CONFERENCE CODE OF CONDUCT
If you or anyone else is in immediate danger at any time, investigated by additional AZA Staff. Actions to be taken will
please contact local law enforcement (by calling 911) and be discussed beforehand with the victim of the harassing
immediately notify facility security. behavior, where possible.
If the complaint is of a clearly criminal nature, legal
If you or anyone else is the subject of unacceptable conduct
authorities will be notified unless the victim has compelling
either in person or online, please contact any of the AZA
reason and specifically requests that such notification
staff below.
not occur.
AZA has zero tolerance for any form of discrimination or
If the offense is not of a criminal nature, the AZA staff
harassment, including sexual harassment. If you experience or
receiving the report will gather information from the victim
observe harassment or hear of any incidents of unacceptable
and discuss next steps, recognizing that AZA is not an
behavior, AZA asks that you please inform any of the
investigative authority.
following so that we can take action.
If a person has been found to have harassed another person,
any of the following may take place:
Melissa Howerton
mhowerton@aza.org • Issue a verbal or written warning
mobile: (301) 244–3337 • Suspend attendance at AZA-sponsored events
Candice Dorsey • Prohibit attendance at any future meeting
cdorsey@aza.org
Reports of unacceptable conduct by an individual may also
mobile: (301) 244–3339
be reported by AZA to an individual’s employer. Ultimately,
Craig Hoover beyond the conduct of AZA employees, the conduct of
choover@aza.org conference attendees is most appropriately handled by
mobile: (301) 244–3345 their employer, and in severe or repetitive cases, employer
reporting will be considered.
All reports will be treated seriously and promptly. Incidents AZA has zero tolerance for retaliation on-site, online or
will be handled with respect for the privacy wishes of the at a member facility against individuals for reporting
victim, and if confidentiality is requested, reports will be unacceptable conduct at AZA-related events.
confidential to the extent practical, given the circumstances.
Reports may also be made anonymously.
To the extent possible, AZA staff receiving the report
will respect any victim requests to remain anonymous.
Unacceptable conduct may be part of a larger pattern of
repeated harassment. Please alert AZA to all such conduct
regardless of the offender’s identity or job title, even if you
prefer your report to remain anonymous.
10MA PS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Downtown Baltimore
Water Taxis
Point of Interest
2
4
1 3
National Aquarium HOTELS
1. Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor
Baltimore Convention Center
2. Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards
Maryland Zoo (13 minutes North) 3. Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor
4. Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel
11MA PS
GENERAL INFORMATION
■
E Elevators
Baltimore Convention Center
■
S Stairs
■ Escalators
■ Restrooms
■ Exhibit Hall
■ Meeting Rooms
■ Dining
Level 100
CONWAY STREET
E
S
Hotels:
Renaissance S
Hyatt Regency
E
HOWARD STREET
E
S
S S S
E
CHARLES STREET
E
S HALL C HALL D HALL E
CHARLES Exhibit Hall
STREET
LOBBY and
Registration
S S
E
PRATT STREET
S LOWER LOBBY S
Entrance – PRATT STREET
Vaccination Check, Registration, Hotels:
and Exhibit Hall Marriott
Hilton
12Level 300
GENERAL INFORMATION
CONWAY STREET
CAMDEN TERRACE
E
CAMDEN LOBBY
S
350349 348 347 346 345
.
344
343
Concurrent Sessions and Meeting Rooms
342
S
341
HOWARD STREET
Speaker Prep 340
339
CHARLES STREET
306 313 320 323 E 329 332 335 338
TERRACE
303 315 317 326
302 305 307 308 309 310 312 319 322 325 S 328 331 334 337
314 316 327 330 333
301 304 311 318 321 324 336
CHARLES
TERRACE
E
AV BUSINESS
S S
OFFICE CENTER
E SHARP S
TERRACE EAST WEST
PRATT STREET LOBBY E
S
TERRACE
Volunteer Office OUTDOOR TERRACE
TERRACE Hilton
S S
PRATT STREET
E
Level 400 CONWAY STREET
VIP
WEST
S
VIP
General Sessions
EAST
BALLROOM II BALLROOM IV
E
HOWARD STREET
SHARP STREET
BALLROOM I BALLROOM III
to Concurrent BALLROOM FOYER Satellite S
Sessions Lunch Area
E
S
PRATT STREET
13MA PS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Exhibit Hall C, 100 Level
EXHIBIT HALL
ROUNDTABLES
POSTER
PRESENTATIONS
FOOD & BEVERAGE
#1
651 649 647 645 643 639 637 633 631 629 627 625
650 648 646644 642 638 636 632 630 628 626 624
551 547 545 543 539 537 533 529 527
SILENT AUCTION
550 548 542 538 536 532 530 528 526 524 514 512 510 508506 502500
451 449 447 445 439 437 433 431 429 425 415 411 409407 401
450 448 446 444 442 432 430 428 426 424 414 412 410 408406 402400
339 321
343 333 331 329 327 303 301
AZA
CENTRAL FOOD & BEVERAGE
SELF CHECK-IN
#2
EXHIBIT HALL
ENTRANCE 344 342 332 328 326 324 314 310 308 302 300
ENTRANCE 239 221
243 233 229 227 225 215 213 211 209 207 201
BAG
PICK-UP
244 242 238 236 232 230 228 224 220 218 208 206 200
145 143 139 137 131 129 127 125 121 119 115 113 111 109 107 103 101
REGISTRATION
VACCINATION CHECK PCS
SERVICE DESK
138 130 128 112 110 108 102 100
14ANNUAL CONFERENCE GREEN MISSION From an elevated position atop a rock, a lioness watches zoo guests. On the Zoo’s diverse calendar of special events, Yoga with the Animals is one offering that may cause you to pause. It does for lioness Zuri, anyway. She can often be found observing the bending and breathing participants when classes take place at the Africa Overlook. © Maryland Zoo
AZA, National Aquarium, Maryland Zoo, and the Annual Conference
GREEN MISSION
Green supporters and partners are committed to using as many environmentally
responsible practices as possible and feasible for the 2022 Annual Conference.
mission We invite you to be a part of the Green Mission as well!
For a full list of practices, visit annual.aza.org/2022/green_mission.cfm.
CONFERENCE R EG I ST R AT I ON M AT ER I AL S • All directional and room signage is reused from one event
• All registration confirmation materials and badge previews to another, whenever possible.
were emailed to attendees. Emailing a badge preview • If applicable, speakers are encouraged to provide handouts
prevents the printing of multiple, incorrect badges. or presentations to be posted on the AZA website after the
• Thanks to the support of Service Systems Associates, conference, instead of paper copies onsite.
the registration badge holders are made from recycled
materials. If you choose to recycle your badge holders, EXHIBIT HALL
recycling receptacles are located at the AZA Registration • All conference exhibitors and participants are strongly
Desk and at Zoo Day. encouraged to use sustainable products for any
promotional giveaway items.
• This year’s delegate bags are made of repurposed
cotton and can be reused when shopping. Please help • Exhibitors are encouraged to participate in Lead Retrieval.
the Green Mission by using these bags during and after Attendees have a bar code on their registration badge,
the Conference. Thank you to Canopy Strategic Partners allowing exhibitors to scan their badge to acquire contact
(previously Zoo Advisors) for sponsoring the bags. information. This reduces the number of business cards
being distributed.
CONFERENCE P R OG R A M M AT ER I A L S
• All carpet, table clothes and signage in the Exhibit Hall will
• The Program Guide and Schedule at a Glance Pocket be recycled or reused when possible.
Guide are printed on Forest Stewardship Council certified,
recycled, double-sided paper, with vegetable oil-based inks. W H AT YO U C A N D O
Take one copy and dispose of in the recycle bins located
• Use the refillable water stations throughout the
throughout the Convention Center.
Convention Center.
• The Annual Conference App and website are available
• Use the Convention Center and hotel recycling programs.
for smartphone users, with the latest and most up-to-
date information on schedule updates and room changes.
Browse the exhibit hall floor plan to make the most of your
time in the Hall!
© Maryland Zoo
16Great things
are in store
with Event Network
Providing our partners and their guests with best-in-class retail offerings.
Curated on purpose for purpose, retail collections are mission guided, conservation
minded, and sustainably focused from a diverse and inclusive vendor base.
TRANSITIONAL COTTON PROJECT ™
Together, with Kastlfel, a leader in innovative
sustainable apparel, launched the Transitional
Cotton Project™ to help further the growth of
certified organic cotton farming around the world.
LOCAL BALTIMORE ARTISAN | HON’S HONEY
Hon's Honey's sustainable values are obvious —
beekeeping efforts, all-natural bath and beauty line,
and recyclable honey jars. 100% of profits employ
women in Baltimore, who are survivors of trauma —
addiction, trafficking, generational poverty and abuse.
PLANTING TREES
TenTree plants 10 trees for every item purchased.
As a result of Event Network’s partnership with
Tentree, 269,390 trees have been planted resulting
in roughly 135 acres of land being restored.
BE SURE TO TAKE A MEMORY OF THE AQUARIUM HOME WITH YOU!
Stop by the National Aquarium Gift Shop, located at the top of the escalator on
Level 1, with your AZA Annual Conference badge to receive a 30% Discount.
A few exceptions apply, see store team for details.
www.eventnetwork.comBIG
CHANGE,
SPARKd.
Discover SSA’s augmented reality
experience at the Icebreaker at
National Aquarium and Zoo Day
at Maryland Zoo.
thessagroup.comSPONSORS © National Aquarium
Thank you to the 2022 Annual Conference Sponsors for your dedication and support!
CONFERENCE SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSOR BRONZE SPONSOR
Verdis Group
20PROGRAM SCHEDULE & SPECIAL EVENTS SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 © National Aquarium
Today.
Tomorrow.
Together.
Animals Always.
Through conservation locally and around the world,
the Saint Louis Zoo works to ensure endangered animals
and people can survive and thrive together.
Saint Louis Zoo conservationists
reintroduce American burying
beetles to the wild.SU N DAY, AU G UST 2 8
SUNDAY, AUGUST 28
• Registration is open from 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM and located in Exhibit Hall C of the Convention Center.
• The Exhibit Hall is not open.
• All meetings are located in the Baltimore Convention Center and are open, unless otherwise noted in the program guide or
outside the room.
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM Elephant TAG/SSP 315
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM onference Workshop – Analyzing Behavior Data: Going Beyond MS Excel
C
to Build Interactive Data Dashboards Using New Tools and Techniques
(additional $75 fee required) 322
Managing For Success Planning Meeting (Executive Session) 328
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Animal Population Management (APM) Committee (Executive Session) 336
Accreditation Hearings (Executive Session) Paca – Hilton Hotel
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Maned Wolf Program 329
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Aquarium Conservation Partnership Steering Committee Meeting (Invite Only) 330
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Volunteer Management Committee (Executive Session 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 302
9:30 AM – 12:00 PM SAFE Program Leaders Meeting (Executive Session) 316
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Zoo-Park Partnerships Meeting 323
Behavior SAG (Executive Session) 329
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Coastal Ecosystems Learning Centers Network Annual Meeting 321
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM SAFE Sea Turtle 315
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM SAFE Chinchilla 321
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Behavior SAG 316
Biobanking SAG 329
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM SAFE African Penguin (Executive Session) 323
Marine Mammal TAG Steering Committee (Executive Session) 322
Small Carnivore TAG (Executive Session 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 315
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Professional Development Committee (Executive Session 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 331
Human Resources Committee 318
Marketing Committee 319
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Andean Bear SSP 328
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM AZA Membership Committee 330
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Advancing Conservation through Empathy (ACE) for Wildlife Network Meeting 329
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM SAFE Shark and Ray 316
ocial Science Research and Evaluation SAG
S
(Executive Session 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM) 321
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM SAFE African Vulture, North American Songbird, and Asian Hornbill 315
SAFE Andean Highland Flamingo 329
23PROGRAM SCHEDULE & SPECIAL EVENTS MONDAY, AUGUST 29 A Female reticulated giraffe looks across the African Journey. The Maryland Zoo’s giraffe, lion, and elephant habitats were reopened after a major renovation in 2019. The updated spaces provide thousands more square feet for the animals to roam and enriching features such as elevated feeders, training spaces, and improved landscapes. © Maryland Zoo
MO N DAY, AUG U ST 2 9
MONDAY, AUGUST 29
• Registration is open from 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM and located in Exhibit Hall C of the Convention Center.
• The Exhibit Hall is not open.
• All meetings are located in the Baltimore Convention Center and are open, unless otherwise noted in the program guide or
outside the room.
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM SAFE Seascapes 323
Reproduction and Endocrinology SAG 319
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Aquarium Affairs Committee 328
8:00 AM – 10:00 AM Animal Program Leaders Meeting 314
California Association of Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA) (Executive Session) 330
Marine Mammal TAG 327
8:00 AM – 11:00 AM Green SAG (Executive Session) 318
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Public Relations Committee (Executive Session 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM) 329
8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Volunteer & Intern Engagement Bootcamp 302
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Accreditation Hearings (Executive Session) Paca – Hilton Hotel
8:30 AM – 11:00 AM Diversity Committee 331
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Conservation Education Committee (Executive Session 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM) 336
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Giant Panda Conservation Foundation (Executive Session) 322
9:30 AM – 11:30 AM Aquatic Collections Sustainability Committee 328
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM Government Affairs Committee 319
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM African-Eurasian Monkey TAG 316
Jaguar SSP/SAFE 317
Meet the PMC Team! Learn How We Can Help! 322
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM African Painted Dog SSP 330
Animal Welfare Committee 314
Rodent, Insectivore, and Lagomorph TAG 327
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Advancement Committee 323
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM SAFE Andean Bear 331
Chimpanzee SSP 317
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM Cheetah SSP 316
Safety Committee 318
12:30 PM – 3:00 PM Joint Public Relations and Marketing Committees (Executive Session) 331
12:30 PM – 3:30 PM ZA-FRTRP Pathway to Restoration Working Meeting and Project Update
A
(Executive Session 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM) 328
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Animal Health Committee 318
SAFE Radiated Tortoise, African Painted Dog, and Chimpanzee 322
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Felid TAG Update 314
Small Population Management Advisory Group (SPMAG) 330
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Diversity Committee Roundtable 315
Trends Committee 323
1:00 PM – 3:30 PM Wildlife Conservation Committee (Executive Session 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM) 329
Zoo Conservation Outreach Group (ZCOG) (Executive Session) 321
271:00 PM – 4:00 PM Ambassador Animal SAG (Executive Session 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM) 317
MONDAY, AUGUST 29
Honors and Awards Committee (Executive Session) 319
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Advancement Committee Development and Membership Roundtables 327
Aardvark, Xenarthra TAG (Executive Session 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM) 316
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Ethics Board (Executive Session) 318
2:30 PM – 3:30 PM Nutrition Advisory Group 330
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM Population Management Center (PMC) Help Desk Charles Street Lobby
Prosimian TAG 314
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM SAFE Orangutan 331
First Time Attendee Meeting 307
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Business Operations Committee 323
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM SAFE Vaquita 321
3:30 PM – 5:30 PM Marine Fishes TAG 328
Research and Technology Committee 329
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM SAFE North American Songbird 318
SAFE Gorilla 322
4:30 PM – 5:45 PM Student Social 320
© National Aquarium
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Icebreaker at the National Aquarium
One ticket is included in a full registration. Daily registration DOES NOT include a ticket. Additional
tickets are available for $95 each from the Full Service Registration Desk. Children ages 3–11 are
$35 additional. No ticket needed for children under 3. Icebreaker guests must also comply with the
vaccination policy.
We’re pleased to announce that we’re working closely with our food and beverage partner, SSA,
to create a zero-waste Icebreaker event. During the Icebreaker, enjoy access to our award-winning
habitats featuring hundreds of animal species from all over the world. Journey through dozens of
unique aquatic habitats—from an Indo-Pacific reef to the Amazon River Forest—all interconnected
by the binding force of water. From close-up animal encounters at the Blacktip Reef underwater
viewing area to the one-of-a-kind Australia exhibit, you will see some of the world’s most unique
animals. After strolling through the four levels of Blue Wonders, walk across the bridge to Dolphin
Discovery and Jellies Invasion while enjoying sweeping views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.
Note: the Amazon Rain Forest is currently scheduled to be closed for exterior glass replacement.
The Aquarium is located downtown and is walkable from all Conference hotels. There will be
limited motorcoach transportation traveling continually between the Convention Center to the
Aquarium and back to the Center from 5:30 PM to 9:15 PM.
The Aquarium is offering free admission for Conference attendees beginning on Sunday, August 28,
and running through Friday, September 2. You must present your Conference badge for admission,
as well as to receive a discount at SSA food locations throughout the Aquarium.
28PROGRAM SCHEDULE & SPECIAL EVENTS TUESDAY, AUGUST 30 © National Aquarium
COME SEE US AT
BOOTH 243
Visit Us Online At
www.centaman.com
ZOO MANAGEMENT
SOFTWARE TO HELP YOU API & INTEGRATIONS
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BOOTH #401- 403T U E S DAY, AU G UST 3 0
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
• Registration is open from 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM and located in Exhibit Hall C.
• The Exhibit Hall is located in Exhibit Hall C and is open 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
• All sessions are located in the Baltimore Convention Center and are open, unless otherwise noted in the program guide or
outside the room.
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM Light Continental Breakfast Grand Ballroom Foyer
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Opening General Session Grand Ballroom
WELCOME TO BALTIMORE AND TO THE AZA ANNUAL CONFERENCE! Sponsored by
AZA President and CEO, Dan Ashe, and the co-hosts from the Maryland Zoo and the
National Aquarium, Kirby Fowler and John Racanelli, join to welcome all back to the
AZA Annual Conference and the city of Baltimore! They will be joined by the Chair of the
AZA Board of Directors, Dr. Brian Davis, President and CEO of Georgia Aquarium.
Dan Ashe Kirby Fowler John Racanelli Brian Davis, Ph.D.
President and CEO President & CEO President and CEO President and CEO
Association of Zoos and Maryland Zoo National Aquarium Georgia Aquarium
Aquariums
Guest Speakers and Panelists
Dr. Mamie Parker will share stories and experiences as a wildlife biologist working in the conservation
community. She will be joined by Curtis Bennett and Dr. Bridget Coughlin as they discuss and explore
the topics of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion, and why these dialogues are so important to learning,
growing, and leading successful organizations.
Biographies of the guest speakers and panelists are listed on the following page.
continued
31Mamie Parker, Ph.D.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
Former Head of Fisheries, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Conservationist, Success Coach, M.A. Parker and Associates
Dr. Mamie Parker is a professional fish and wildlife biologist, success coach, and principal
consultant at Ecologix Group, Inc. She was elected chair of the Virginia Department of
Wildlife Resources Commission leading the commission in the changing the name of the
agency. Parker is the chair of the Student Conservation Association (SCA) and serves on the
Board of Directors of Brown Advisory, Center for Large Landscape Conservation, The Nature
Conservancy-Virginia Chapter, Marstel-Day Consulting, Duke University NSOE, the National
Wildlife Federation, the Chesapeake Conservancy and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
Known for her public speaking throughout the environmental community, Parker has given
commencement addresses and speeches for several organizations, including Duke University
NSOE, Wisconsin Northland College, the World Fisheries Congress in China, the Oprah Winfrey
Academy and the office of the Prime Minister of Lesotho in southern Africa. Dr. Parker made
history serving as the first African American FWS Regional Director of the 13 Northeastern
states after working in the Great Lakes and Big Rivers regions and in the southeastern United
States. She spent a career as a biologist and senior executive in the federal government as the
FWS Chief of Staff, Assistant Director of Habitat Conservation/Head of Fisheries in this country.
Curtis Bennett
Director of Equity and Community Engagement
National Aquarium
Curtis Bennett is the National Aquarium’s director of equity and community engagement. He
and his team develop long-lasting relationships with local residents and stakeholders, and
collaborate with them to develop environmental programs and projects that meet the needs
of the community. Curtis also ensures that the Aquarium intentionally integrates and applies
principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice within its conservation mission. Curtis began
his career in environmental education and community engagement in 2003 as a naturalist
at the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission. He is a member of several
diversity, equity, inclusion and justice-focused committees and workgroups, including with
AZA’s Diversity Committee, the Environmental Protection Agency Chesapeake Bay Program
and the Choose Clean Water Coalition. He also serves on the Maryland Association for
Environmental and Outdoor Education Advisory Council, and was recognized with their Robert
Finton Outdoor Educator of the Year Award in 2018.
Bridget Coughlin, Ph.D.
President and CEO
John G. Shedd Aquarium
Dr. Bridget Coughlin was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Shedd Aquarium in
2016. Under her leadership, 1.9 million aquarium guests each year enjoy innovative experiences
that are focused on Shedd’s Mission of compassion, curiosity and conservation for the
aquatic animal world. A relentless advocate for access in all ways, Dr. Coughlin commits the
organization to offering tens of millions of dollars in free admission each year; champions varied
learning styles and approaches; and is a voice for real diversity, equity and inclusion practices
in the business world. A nature lover and scientist at heart, Dr. Coughlin is passionate about
animal life in oceans, rivers and lakes and her commitment to learning and conservation extends
well beyond the walls of Shedd Aquarium. She has connected families and community members
to Shedd’s aquatic life on the Great Lakes, in neighborhoods across the city and in the digital
world with urban outposts and immersive virtual learning experiences.
32SYMBOL KEY This program track key will help you identify the primary professional interest for each session.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
Attendees are encouraged to review all sessions for specific interests and learning opportunities.
Animal Management, Development/Fundraising
Trends & More
Health & Welfare & Membership
Volunteer & Intern
Aquarium Affairs Education
Engagement
Workplace Culture,
Business Operations General Sessions
Engagement, & Professional
Development
Public Relations &
Conservation
Marketing
COMMITTEE AND ANIMAL PROGRAM MEETINGS
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM North American River Otter Planning Meeting 329
9:30 AM – 3:30 PM Population Management Center (PMC) Help Desk Charles Street Lobby
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM olving Education’s Professionalism Problem: Continuing the Conversation
S
Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #3
Inclusive Workplaces Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #8
Equitable Internships Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #9
reating Accessible and Inclusive Professional Training
C
Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #10
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Meet the Accreditation Commissioners Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #2
Volunteer Management Committee Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #4
Committee Chairs Meeting (Executive Session) 336
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM ow ERGs Build the Organization Brand & Promote Inclusion
H
Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #1
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM ocial Science Research and Evaluation Clinic: Ask an Expert
S
Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #6
FrogWatch USA Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #7
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM Marine Fishes TAG Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #5
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Education Advisors to Animal & Conservation Programs
Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #3
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM ZooMonitor Q&A Exhibit Hall Roundtable Table #1
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM Exhibit Hall C
Exhibit Hall Grand Opening
Get the first look at the 2022 Exhibit Hall, featuring more than 150 booths showcasing products, services, and new technologies for
the zoo and aquarium community, as well as conservation organizations.
33CONCURRENT SESSIONS 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 321 • Nikki Smith, Chief Development Officer, Jacksonville Zoo
Wildlife Trafficking Alliance Project Spotlights • Claire Lannoye-Hall, Director of Education, Detroit
Zoological Society
The Wildlife Trafficking Alliance (WTA) envisions a world
where people work together to end illegal wildlife trade. • Laura Seger, Manager of Learning Experiences,
WTA is now nearly 90 partners strong and has a new three- Saint Louis Zoo
year strategic plan. This session will spotlight some of the
exciting new projects being coordinated by WTA, and its
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 307
partners, to reach our three high-level goals. Learn how you
eeping Elephants in the Room: Let’s Optimize
K
can get involved and help us combat wildlife trafficking!
Our Elephants’ Health, Wellness and Reproductive
Moderator: Sara Walker, Senior Advisor on Wildlife Sustainability Today, To Secure Their Future in
Trafficking, Association of Zoos and Aquariums North America
Sponsored by:
Panelists
• Cynthia Mead, Executive Vice President of External Affairs,
Zoo New England Elephants are an iconic part of every zoo they live in. With
• Beth Schaefer, Director of Animal Programs, Los Angeles reduced population sustainability, there will be a lot fewer
Zoo And Botanical Gardens zoos with elephants when the next decade starts. There
• Taliah Farnsworth, Education Specialist, U.S. Fish & is still time to change the future! This session focuses on
Wildlife Service optimizing health, wellness and reproductive success in our
• Kerston Swartz, Director, Government Affairs & Advocacy, largest land mammals, and also touches on the connection
Woodland Park Zoo between our herds and free-ranging herds in South Africa
• Amy Gotliffe, Vice President, Conservation, Oakland Zoo as a reminder of the importance of protecting the wildlife/
domestic animal interface.
• Danielle Kessler, Director, US Office, International Fund for
Animal Welfare
Moderator: Lisa Peterson, Executive Director, San Diego
Zoo Safari Park
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 317 Mortality Review of African Elephants in North America
arnessing Hybridity: How Education and
H 2000–2021 and the Importance of Elephant Necropsy
Fundraising Have Been Positively Impacted Through • Dr. Jaime Landolfi, Clinical Assistant Professor Zoological
Varying Degrees of Virtual Experiences and a Pathology, University of Illinois
Reimagining of Programs and Events
Detection of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus and
This engaging session will explore how zoos and aquariums Tuberculosis in Free-ranging African Elephants in Kruger
have harnessed the lessons learned and new technologies National Park
used during the COVID-19 shut down to create innovative • Dr. Tanya Kerr, Post Doctoral Researcher, Animal TB
and exciting hybrid programming. The adaptive models Research Group, Stellenbosch University
that are being integrated into development, membership Set Your Institution and Your Herds Up for Successful
and education department programming now that on-site Elephant Transfers
options are available again provide the opportunity to stay
• Dr. Lauren Howard, Director, Veterinary Services,
connected with our communities, engage new and diverse San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
audiences, and meet institutional advancement needs.
The Ins and Outs of Elephant Reproduction and
After a short panel presentation, participants will workshop
Sustainability
their own ideas in small group discussions facilitated by the
• Jill Sampson, Curator of Elephants, Pittsburgh Zoo
panelists to flesh out concepts and develop solutions to
challenges. Overview and Update of the Elephant Strategy Task Force
• Lisa Peterson, Executive Director, San Diego Zoo
Moderator: Alix Cotumaccio, Curator of Education, Wildlife
Safari Park
Conservation Society
Panelists
• Michelle Camou, Director of External Affairs, Akron Zoo
• Janet Dial, Vice President, Advancement, Greater
Los Angeles Zoo Association
• Autumn Russell, Sr. Director of Education and
Communications, Akron Zoo
3410:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 310 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 302
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
eadership from the Top: Today’s Reality,
L perations + Conservation + Exhibit Design: Creating
O
Tomorrow’s Possibility, and Bold Vision for a Revenue Anchor at the Heart of the Houston Zoo
the Future
The Houston Zoo team will take you on a journey through
Leadership is an ever-fluid balance between implementing its award-winning project that reimagined underutilized
strategic and operational excellence today while nurturing amenities at the Heart of the Zoo into a revenue-generating
aspirational goals and ideas about what is possible anchor aligned with the Zoo’s conservation priorities
tomorrow. Throughout their careers, these leaders have articulated in its Strategic Plan. The holistic approach
pushed themselves to build on their original areas of encouraged input from multiple stakeholders. You will hear:
expertise and expand into leadership roles both within the How the Zoo strategically approached this project through
AZA community and beyond. Now as leaders at the top of the lens of mission, operations, and revenue; About the
their organizations, they are uniquely positioned to continue operations, logistics and lessons learned from undergoing
driving change and unleashing the potential of their teams. a significant construction project in the Heart of the Zoo;
We’ll discuss leading from the top today, the possibilities of How the exhibit tells a story of place through habitat
tomorrow, and how they are boldly envisioning the future restoration and conservation.
for wildlife and wild places.
Moderator: Sheryl Kolasinski, COO, Houston Zoo
Moderator: Julie Henry, Partner, Pathways Collaborative
Design & Construction
Panelists • Jason Hill, Principal, SHR Studios
• Bert Vescolani, President and CEO, Denver Zoological • Tenna Florian, Architect, SHR Studios
Foundation
Business Operations
• Dr. Brian Davis, President and CEO, Georgia Aquarium
• Adrian Cavazos, Senior Director, Business Operations,
• Roger Germann, President and CEO, The Florida Houston Zoo
Aquarium
• Mark Kathman, RVP, SSA Group
• Dr. Hayley Murphy, Executive Director and CEO, Detroit
Zoological Society Conservation & Sustainability
• Colley Hodges, Sustainability Manager, Houston Zoo, Inc.
• Michael Fannin, Houston Zoo, Inc.
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 316
Lessons Learned/Pandemic Impact
ore Member Value: Case Studies in Boosting the
M
Member Experience • Mark Hoffman, Director, Design and Engineering,
Houston Zoo, Inc.
Sponsored by:
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 308
In this insightful session, attendees will learn strategies eople Power! Strategies for Integrating People into
P
for creating more member value. Featuring case studies Conservation Programs
from three innovative organizations, this session will reveal
Sponsored by:
how leading zoos and aquariums are leveraging research,
new benefits, and technology to better meet member
needs. Takeaways from this session will include strategies
for improving the member experience and engaging new Conservation is at the heart of what we do as aquariums
audiences, including digital membership cards, membership and zoos, but how do we connect and include everyone in
swaps and monthly perks, designing for the customer our community in that mission? Have you heard of SAFE
journey, and exploring new membership value propositions. PACT and opportunities for people to advance conservation
together? Join us as we explore ways to support SAFE
Moderator: Dan Sullivan, VP, Growth and Partnerships,
by involving the community and cross-functional teams
Cuseum
in conservation action and strengthening organizational
Panelists cultures of conservation. Speakers from the SAFE
Orangutan and Asian Hornbill PACT Public Action Pilot,
• Kayla Webber, Membership Manager, South Carolina
Aquarium SAFE PACT strategic development team, and Conservation
Culture Pilot Program will share strategies, successes,
• Brittany Coolbaugh, Membership Manager, Virginia Zoo
failures, and answer questions.
• Matt Rains, Director of Membership, The National
Aquarium in Baltimore Moderator: Katey Leban, Conservation Coordinator,
• Rosie Siemer, Founder and CEO, FIVESEED Association of Zoos and Aquariums
continued
35Where It Began: Embracing the Challenge of Co-design 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 314
TUESDAY, AUGUST 30
• Dr. Kayla Cranston, Director of Conservation Psychology The Rise of Social Media Influencers
Strategy & Integration, Antioch University
Whether we know it or not, social media influencers fill the
Where We Are Now: SAFE PACT Public Action Pilot feeds of our favorite social media platforms. From Instagram
• Robin Keith, President and CEO, EcoLeaders LLC to YouTube to TikTok, influencers are shaping opinions on
• Nicolette Canzoneri, President, EnvARK Innovators products and topics every day. So, how do aquariums and
zoos navigate this landscape? This session will offer expert
Where We Are Going: Conservation Culture
advice and insight into how aquariums and zoos can engage
• Jeff Vanek, Director of Human Resources, Utah’s with influencers to help deliver their message.
Hogle Zoo
Moderator: Rob Vernon, SVP, Communications & Strategy,
Panelists
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
• Roger Sweeney, Director of Animal Management &
Welfare, North Carolina Zoo Panelists
• Shelly Grow, Vice President, Conservation and Science, • Jordan Veasley, Jungle Jordan LLC
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
• Paige Hale, Senior Manager of Communications,
• Windy Arey Kent, Education Curator, North Carolina Georgia Aquarium
Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
• Ally Hale, Creator & Community Marketing Lead, TikTok
• Michelle Kolar, Director of Education, Indianapolis Zoo
• Jenny Heinrich, Influencer Strategy Lead, Ketchum
• Emily Bowling, Conservation Education Liaison,
Saint Louis Zoo
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 315
urning the Tide on Climate Change: Aligning
T
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room 318 Aquariums Across the Country Around a Shared
trategic Cultural Development – Intentional
S Climate Commitment
Change From Every Angle
Join a diverse group of aquarium leaders to learn about
Sponsored by:
their efforts to go beyond talking about climate change to
implementing bold steps to mitigate it. Panelists will discuss
their efforts to create a joint climate commitment and
Three AZA institutions will speak to their unique and how these institutions are working together to share best
intentional approaches to shifting cultural direction and practices for measuring and reducing emissions, setting
increasing workplace engagement by collaborating with ambitious achievable targets, inspiring partnerships with
external partners. Each institution has seen significant utilities and suppliers, financing renewable energy projects
positive cultural shifts over the last few years by strategically and more. Witness how these institutions enable and
investing in programs provided by different external motivate each other in the race to carbon neutrality and
partners—from Strategic and Master Planning to Leadership how together, they are turning the tide on the impacts of
& Management consultation and training. What has each climate change.
institution learned? What made this initiative successful?
Moderator: Kim McIntyre, Executive Director, Aquarium
How and why were these initiatives funded? And what
Conservation Partnership
advice would each institution provide to those in need of
positive shifts in their own workplace cultures? Panelists
• Laura Bankey, Vice President of Conservation Programs,
Moderator: Dr. Kathayoon Khalil, Director of Engagement,
National Aquarium
Zoo Advisors, LLC
• Hap Fatzinger, Director, North Carolina Aquarium at
Don’t Waste Your Time Looking for a Shortcut! Fort Fisher
• Dolf DeJong, President/CEO, Toronto Zoo • Daniel Lawse, Principal & Chief Century Thinker,
Verdis Group
Planning With Purpose
• Dr. Erin Meyer, Director of Conservation Programs &
• Dean Watanabe, Chief Mission Officer, Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Partnerships, Seattle Aquarium
Customizing Leadership Development for Impact
• Jamie Cornell, Director of Leadership, Empowering
Performance Inc
The Gift of a Blank Canvas
• Stephanie Stowell, Director, Albuquerque BioPark
Serving the Whole Person
• Dr. Kathayoon Khalil, Director of Engagement, Zoo
Advisors, LLC
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